Since DH rides a recumbent trike, he's ridden in the Wasco 75 3 years running. We went this last Saturday and I thought I'd share some pictures. For the most part, we had a great time!

We arrived at The Dalles Friday evening. I had taken my bike along hoping to get a ride in, but we got a late start...and Portland traffic was horrible. So that was the end of that.

The next morning we got to the course early so DH could mingle and check in. I was able to ride, but as soon as we got out of the van I could feel the wind really howling. I decided to do a quick out and back...at least an hour of riding. I knew I would be in trouble on the way back because on the way out I was really booking at 20+ and still feeling the wind at my back. As soon as I turned around it was a battle. I almost got blown off the road a few times, then I got chased by 2 dogs. Not fun when you can only go 10mph with a headwind of about 20mph!! A pox on all irresponsible dog owners!!

Here's a picture of me after I got done with my ride. I was hesitant to look at this because I was afraid of how I'd look...but I was pleasantly surprised. I don't look half as bad as I imagine myself looking on a bike!





There were a bunch of cool looking recumbent bikes. I especially like this one that's a combination hand/foot pedal bike. I don't know how the lady that rides this stays on while pedaling with both hands and feet...but she sure is fast!








I even got to try out a recumbent trike. It was awesome! You kind of had a feeling you needed to be strapped in, though.






After I got done with it, my daughter got in on the action...




Here is DH before the race. Hmmm, maybe I should put him in the "hot men" thread?






Finally, the race started. The tandems started 10 minutes before the recumbents did.




And here are the recumbents.




By the time the race was in full swing, the wind was howling along at 30mph with gusts up to 40!! Needless to say, there were lots of people who didn't finish. I can't imagine doing 75 miles in that kind of wind, that's for sure!

This year the race wasn't as well attended as it has been in the past, but it's a fun time for all that go.

All in all, we had a good time and we met lots of nice people. Frankie the Pug made a few new friends, too!