What a race, what a team.
1/2 way through and we have had it all.
Broken derailleur hanger, repaired on the roadside;
Broken carbon seat stay...repaired with superglue,hockey tape,zip ties and some luck - just before the start; Hills, heat and some new friends.
Stage 5 today featured more vertical feet of climing per kilometer than any tour de france stage.
Rain forests and a 12km climb from the start.
http://www.cyclismemartinique.com/index_photos.html
Philippe suffered 2 crashes on the downhills yesterday in stage 4 and abandoned. Very unfortunate as he has been climbing very well. He has been a celebrity as a francophone rider and has been on tv every night. He will now work as a translator for the tv with the foriegn riders from Holland and Denmark.
Steve and Geoff have been doing very well. Steve has had the bad mechanical troubles but has been in the yellow jersey groups 2days. We are working with the swiss, danes and dutch to help each other as our riders are all spread across the peleton.
Joel is the little engine that could. As a first year rider he is in over his head but has never let that stop him; HE HAD A EPIC DAY TODAY. 120km on his own on the toughest day yet. He is determined to finish and will; others abandoned but Joel chugged along and finished. He is learning fast that he really wants to be a bike rider.
Geoff and Steve are right in the game and have the repect of their older and more experienced competitors.
All in all this has so far been amazing and will surely continue.
I am so impressed by the Wheeler spirit these boys have. 19 & 21 year olds versus Columbian climbers and continental euro pros. we fit right in.
the boys are tired but in great spirits.
Adrian has proved his worth in hard work, up beat outlook and great support. Its early mornings and late nights for the support team;
1/2 way to a great party.
More to come.
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Way to go!
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