Day 1

Early rise, 4:30 a.m. After a quick shower and double checking my electronics were all charged (it doesn't count if it's not on Strava, right?) it was off to Waffle House for breakfast. When in Rome, do as the Roman's. I don't have this chain around home.

Then it was off to the start of the ride. Thanks, Mom, for taking some pictures of me.

With over 800 people riding, the mass start was crowded, intense, but awesome. Police escorts for the start of our way into Downtown Atlanta.

The first rest stop was at around 10 miles in. A bit early to eat, but I topped off the water bottles.

The next rest stop was at around 26 miles in. Hosted by Aztec Cycles. Grabbed a bunch of snacks to refuel and sat down for a bit.

The next bit of riding was hilly as we went around (thankfully not over) Stone Mountain. The surrounding park was very nice. Well paved, municipal golf course, all the works.

Our next stop near 49 miles in was at a hosted by a horse stable near Georgia International Horse Park. I made some new friends.

Finally, it was a hilly 8 miles into our host for the night, Oxford College of Emory University.

BRAG has an IPA commissioned for the ride! Had one with a burger.

This was a medium length day, but some of the most climbing I've ever done. Let's see how some R&R has me feeling in the morning.