Chain Reaction Day 4 – RAIN
The optimism among the group this morning was high after a few solid days of riding. Today's ride looked to be the hardest so far this week and turned out to be every bit the Challenge that Chain Reaction should be.
After yesterday’s beautiful ride over Mt Tamborine in sunny conditions, we were all hoping for a repeat. However, this optimism was short-lived after the first few sets of traffic lights when a light shower prompted half the peloton to don their rain jackets. The ride into Coolangatta featured further on-and-off light showers as we headed in for a drinks break by the beachside.
After a quick stop, the group rolled out under heavy rain towards Mooball and the Northern NSW ranges. Unfortunately, the road claimed more than a few flat tires early on, but bravely we soldiered on!
Some of the quietest and fastest roads were enjoyed by all under heavy rain during the first free play sessions, with some in the group opting to save their legs for the KOM climb later in the day.
The rain only proceeded to get heavier, with some wondering why they brought rain jackets at all. Nothing could stop the wall of never-ending water that constantly doused the peloton for the following few hours.
The next break in Brunswick Heads saw some weary riders roll in for shelter and to enjoy some local music. After everyone stocked up on supplies, we rolled out shortly after to head once again into the rainforest to Bangalow, which was our lunch stop.
The never-ending rolling hills, as well as the KOM points, were conquered by all. With a regroup at the bottom of the climbs, we continued for what seemed like the longest 4km we had ever ridden to lunch in the non-stop pouring rain.
Lunch thankfully was followed by 30km of dry and beautiful roads into Ballina. For those brave enough to change into warm, dry clothes at lunch, there was a sigh of relief as we rolled in for the 4th night.
Many of us wondered if the current record had been broken for the 1.4 million raised for Children’s charities. Almost all of whom are enduring much greater challenges than we faced today, and this continues to be the reason we push so hard.
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