June 20, 2010 – 28 miles

For the first time in a few nights, our tents were not covered with condensation or frost. The warmer morning made breaking camp easier and more pleasant.

We ate quickly so we could get to Rawlins to find Auke. It was only 25 paved miles away. Mathieu rode ahead of me to reach Rawlins faster. During those miles, I thought about how I wanted the rest of my trip to play out.

Either with Mathieu and Auke at a faster pace or alone at a more relaxed pace. I was leaning toward going solo.

When I arrived in Rawlins, I found the bikes outside Huckleberry’s Cafe. I ordered a breakfast burrito and a 32 oz. milkshake. Both were excellent. I’ve been craving a milkshake for quite some time.

As I ate, the three of us discussed our future as a group. I thought it would be best for me to lag behind and continue at my own pace. I was tired of being waited upon and being pulled along.

My plan was to wait until tomorrow morning to ride through the Great Divide Basin, and do it in two days. Afterward, I would reduce my daily mileage.

Mathieu said he’d also like to spend the night in Rawlins. Auke was okay with the plan so far.

We got a hotel, went out to eat, and then went shopping. When I arrived at the store, I saw a guy in a bike jersey on a payphone. I looked at his bike and recognized it as Mathew Lee’s – the famous Tour Divide racer.

We talked for a while when he got off the phone. His goal this year is to break 17 days. He said he was a few hours behind schedule.

I picked up his bike and found it to be about the weight of my unloaded bike! Unfortunately I did not have a camera with me, so I did not get a picture.

His one hour break expired and was soon on his way again.

After shopping, I met a Trans Am rider riding from East to West. We chatted a bit then he went on his way. I went to the hotel and informed the others that I’d met Matt Lee.

Over the next week, we’ll be crossing paths with the Tour Divide racers. It’s something to look forward to.