Here we are in Oregon. Somewhere a long long way from where I was yesterday, in Fayetteville Arkansas. A couple of hours time change, 2 flights, 8-9 hours of travel and were here. The back to back tour is about to begin.

Joe Martin stage race went well. The team was totally amazing, really, its what makes it so enjoyable to be in this specific team. A great bunch of guys who would die on the front of a pack for another team mate. It was for me, one of the easiest tours I have done. Not due to the course, or weather, or distance, but by the fact that i didn’t have to put my nose in the wind for more that 10 minutes over four days. What the team gets out of the tour is a lot more than just the over all title. Its the camaraderie that will help us all through the next few months.

Arkansas as a whole. Hmmm, Its an interesting place thats for sure! I kind of like it. Its nice going from the big crazy races, to one where there is less stress, and the people running the show just love cycling in general. Its not about money, its not about business, its just about cycling.

Now, I’m in Portland Oregon, like I said, on the other side of the country petty much from Arkansas. Mount Hood Classic is about to begin tomorrow, and I’m looking forward to being here. don’t get me wrong, I’m also looking forward to/currently enjoying, spending the whole day in bed recovering and sleeping. A rest day is well and truly welcome.

So hopefully there will be a lot more regular updates here. Check out cyclingnews for all the updates and results through the tour. The direct link can be copied and pasted directly into your browser here:

 http://www.cyclingnews.com/road.php?id=road/2008/may08/mthood08/default

Talk soon!

Rory