July 17, Stage 11

July 17, Columbus, MT to Powell, WY, 110 miles, 4700 climbing feet. Felt lousy this morning, mainly from the headwind yesterday and riding in the fast paceline. Paceline riding is stressful. Focus has to be on the tire of the rider just ahead of you, which is 6-12 inches away. Also, one cannot enjoy scenery, since the focus is on that tire. Then, while leading the line, focus has to be on pieces of wood, pieces of tires, gravel, etc. We had crossed the Yellowstone River right after leaving Columbus. First 20 miles, I stayed with a group of about 10, but I was having to work hard doing that even though it was only a slight incline. Felt better going at my own pace. After the first stop, started a 20 mile stretch that was mostly climbing, beautiful ribbon-like road that wound across the gentle foothills. Some of the grades bounced up to 10 and 12%, but not for long. Some nice descents. Passed the remains from the Smith Mine disaster of 1943, I think. 74 men died. Mine never opened again. Rusted shell of building remain. After the climbs, the terrain was rolling, passing wind-eroded rock formations, and views of the surrounding mountains. Some agriculture, with large ranches, but very arid. Temperature stayed in 60s and low 70s until lunch (sloppy Joe's), when it jumped into the 90s. Lunch was on the Montana/Wyoming line. Got in about 3:30, cleaned up, did laundry in the motel room sink, hung it out in the sun on a luggage rack. Then dinner at Pizza Hut. A couple of riders are having Achilles problems. For me, neck was better today. My lower lip looks like the lips of folks who have been stranded in a raft in the middle of the ocean for days at a time. Cooler temps did help. Bed time now, since tomorrow is an early start as we climb the Big Horn Mountains, with 8, 10, and up to 14% grades. Very long day--123 miles. I will get in late.