Wonderful Desert Rocks
We are told the steepest hill on the trip to start. 1 in 10 approx. All dirt. Fortunately the wind behind us. the first steep hill partially paved but a long 10 k. As we are now on the dry side of the Andes the country changes. no trees and scrubby desert with low ground cover.
The lake is a magnificant green colour. Pass an armadillo on the track but too quick to phots. rugged mountains surround where the wind has etched away some of the rock outer layers to leave interesting fingers pointing to the sky. Always the lake to the right. <many uphill climbs on the dirt road. one of the riders Dick about my age falls with a suspected broken rib where he hit a rock.
Finally make it to the lunch truck after a big effort pretty tired. Thought about not riding in the afternoon but was pursuaded to ride on as mostly downhill with the wind behind. Set off with Victor and youg medico from Brisbane. <lots of corrugations make it tough on the hands. Stop every so often to stretch. Generally good wide dirt road with some tracks for fast biking. <powerful wind at times am able to cruise along at 30k.
Get to camp at 5.30 time for a warm shower and wash a few clothes and dinner. Early to bed ready for another big day of 120 tomorrow half sealed . <my try to find a drink with Alfonse later.