![\"Nancy](\"https:\/\/centraldistrict.net\/nancystraveljournal\/wp-content\/uploads\/thumb-DSC03138.JPG\" "\\"Nancy")
<\/p>\nThis was probably the toughest day I have had so far. We left Apache Junction around 6:30 AM to beat the heat. At about mile 18 we began a two-mile climb. After riding much of the way in my "granny gear", I managed to make it to the top. At mile 29 we stopped in Superior, AZ at the Buckboard City Restaurant for a second breakfast of French toast. It is a favorite stop for the bikers who ride the mountain roads around that area.<\/p>\n
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That was the fun part! Then came the major climb(s) of the day and a tunnel. Some of the grades were at 6% as we climbed to 4777 feet. In the midst of that came a short dark tunnel, where the SAG escorted us through. When I was within three miles of the top of the climb, I just gave out of steam. After finding that there was no phone signal to call the SAG, I decided just to wait and watch major traffic (including big trucks) go by until the SAG came. I waited and waited and waited, for about 45 minutes, thinking I just could not go any further. Finally, after a little prayer, I decided that I must keep going. From somewhere deep inside I found the strength to push on to the top. There was my reward, a long and beautiful downhill, where I reached a speed on 39.8 mph. That is both terrifying and thrilling! Lesson learned from this experience…when you feel like you can't go on, just let your body have a complete rest, find a positive mental attitude, say a little prayer and somehow the strength will come. <\/p>\n
![\"Mountain](\"https:\/\/centraldistrict.net\/nancystraveljournal\/wp-content\/uploads\/thumb-DSC03143.JPG\" "\\"Mountain")
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Finally, arriving in Globe, I was totally exhausted. After a shower and brief rest, I felt refreshed and ready for our nightly gourmet meal. Four Canadians cycled into the motel shortly after we arrived. Of course we invited them for dinner. They accepted, brought wine AND washed dishes! What great experiences we are having! <\/p>\n
![\"Shrimp](\"https:\/\/centraldistrict.net\/nancystraveljournal\/wp-content\/uploads\/thumb-DSC03145.JPG\" "\\"Shrimp")
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![\"French](\"https:\/\/centraldistrict.net\/nancystraveljournal\/wp-content\/uploads\/thumb-DSC03149.JPG\" "\\"French")
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This was probably the toughest day I have had so far. We left Apache Junction around 6:30 AM to beat the heat. At about mile 18 we began a two-mile climb. After riding much of the way in my "granny … Continue reading