Cap de Formentor

Cap de Formentor

There are some days on the bike that are epic. Today was not one of them. 

We woke to wet pavement and misty skies. Perfect for sleeping in, I thought. As we walked down the  slippery stone stairs to breakfast, I was thinking to myself, “no way is anyone going to ride today.” My thoughts turned to a warm hotel room, a good book and maybe a mid-morning nap.  But, my illusion was brought back to reality when we walked to the bike bunker after breakfast and the guides said, “get dressed boys, we’re riding.” Oh joy!

As we left the hotel, the rain was light, but steady. Fortunately, it was not cold or that warm hotel room, good book and nap would have become my personal reality. We proceeded slowly. The roads on Mallorca are paved with crushed limestone, which when wet, become slippery as snot.

The course was taking us toward the northern end of the island and to a very famous lighthouse. I’m in the back because the breaks on my bike don’t like to be wet and stop working. A few kilometers into the ride, Mike slips back to talk to me. “I’m only going to the 25km mark and then turning back,” he says. I’m stunned, but say, I’m with you.”

So Mike, Steve and I turn around at the first break stop and make our way back to a café for coffee and then on to the hotel. Jonathan, today’s over achiever, completes the whole course. Kudos!

Tomorrow is the final day at bike camp and for Steve and me, our last day on Mallorca. There is an optional, self-guided ride planned, but it’s very questionable. Rain is again in the forecast.