Hey Sue,
Well, I've got my game plan and ride goals - my PT taught me to always set goals, even for a steady state training ride and it does help. Also, this will be my 4th 1-day STP; when I rode it in '99 for the first time, I did it in 2 days, then decided that I wanted to challenge myself to ride it in 1 from then on. So, there aren't too many unknowns for me about the ride at this point. I know the route and how I need to prepare, I know where I can lose time or be efficient and how to take care of myself at this point. That doesn't mean it'll be easy or anything, but it helps that I've done it and know ahead of time, where I'll be stopping, etc. The best is when most folks stop about halfway and are lugging their gear to their Saturday overnights, and it opens up the road (I'm not a crowd lover!) all the way to Portland for me! Also, the port-a-potties are all in place along the entire route, but unused after the halfway mark, and just waiting for the rest of the riders on Sunday, so they're clean and in a pristine condition for me - I tell ya, it's the little things that count, eh?!!
Yes, I'll be watching for a few folks on Sunday; I'll hang out till mid-afternoon before I head back home to Seattle. I'll meet up with other riders to eat after we get in Saturday night and again for breakfast on Sunday before going over to the finish line beer garden.
Yes, I've heard that the food on the CC ride is great; that always helps. The Rotary clubs probably have tons of fun doing the rest stop themes and competition too. I've been on a bunch of supported rides and really appreciate when the rest stop crew gets into the spirit of the ride.
Hoteling it each night, eh? So, you're doing the "Princess Ride" I take it?! Kidding, as I've done my share of shower trucks and tents and it makes such a difference to look forward to a hotel room. You'll get good rest and probably enjoy each days ride and efforts that much more. Sounds like you're getting in lots of good training rides and helping your buddy too. Good going!
Mary