I biked 205 miles from Seattle to Portland this past Saturday with friends and family. Of the 9500 riders doing STP 25% did it in one day and 75% did it in two days.  The ride starts at the University of Washington, heads south to Pyualllup, Centralia, Winlock, Kelso, and finally Portland via the 30.The weather for the ride was gorgeous in the morning and 90-95 degrees as we approached Portland via Kelso.

 I did the ride with 4 friends from Seattle so we all got the benefit if helping each other as we averaged 18.1 miles/hour while on our bike. The trip started at 5am and we got into Portland by 7:45pm meaning we were out on the road for 14+ hours but on our bikes for only 11.5 hours. 

I am happy to report that despite the fatigue, everyone finished the ride strong and healthy. I am _really_ happy to report that for my 2nd ride in a row, my legs did not cramp up at all and seemed to have gotten stronger as the season has been rolling on.  The hill training has been valuable, but also focuing on keeping hyrdrated, fed. Riding with friends really helped moderate my tendency to go out too fast and flaming out before the ride was over.

Trip highlights included:

1) My 8yr old doing his first century from UW to Centralia on a tandem with my wife.

2) Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark is _great_ for kid mayhem.

3) Watching people cross the line and in tears over the emotion of finishing.

4) Creamsicles in 95 degree weather in Centralia.

5) 26 MPH, on a downhill with a tailwind for miles upon miles.

6) 22 MPH on an uphill in the enthusiasm for hitting Oregon

7) Celebrating with everyone at the finish line

8) Friends who made posters to welcome our team as they all rode in together.

9) Waiting until 12:30am on Day 1 with Cascade Bicycling Club as the last of the 1 day riders came in.

10) Portland on a hot night in the summer

It was a great experience and makes me hopeful that RAMROD will be just as smooth and enjoyable. If a bit more hilly.