Tishomingo State Park, MS to Private Residence in Summertown, TN
Last night I managed four solid hours of sleep. My tent was on a slight slope and I made the mistake of orienting it so I was lying perpendicular to the slope. (Sounds mathy?)
At 2:30 am in my struggle to find a comfortable position my left hamstring went into spasm. The cramping was very painful and continued for 15 minutes or so. For the rest of the night. Every time I rolled over I expected the spasm to come back. It didn’t but peaceful sleep was not going to happen.
In light of the scheduled 90-mile day, Most of the group opted for a “push”, a lift from the van 20 miles or do onto the route.
I opted to ride the whole thing.
I rode alone for the entire day. I stopped at one historical place, the Wichapi Commemorative Stone Wall. It’s a memorial to the Trail of Tears. I could have spent hours there but I had much riding to do.
The route was hillier than earlier days. Mostly the hills were gradual. In the middle of the ride there was a 20+ mile false flat, a gradual upslope that is harder on your mind than your body.
One saving grace was that I picked up a tailwind for much of the last third of the ride.
I drank two bottles of electrolyte drink, ate two bananas, and drank a Gatorade. I hope they makes for a comfortable night.
I was the last one to arrive at the campsite, the front lawn of an old friend of Jeff, our tour co-leader.
Tomorrow is our last day. It will feature significant climbing and even better tailwinds.
Miles today: 90 Tour miles: 423
A Few Spokes Shy of a Wheel 
I don’t even make it to the gym if I haven’t slept well. You’re a machine! Take care of yourself and glad you are enjoying the full tour. Who are these van-riding weenies?!
Just caught up on this journey. The scenery along the way is amazing. I love the look of this part of the country. Great time of year for this. Here’s to hoping for better sleep to come.
A bit better. Last night we slept at an awesome private home with a lush lawn. Really comfy.
From the pictures of your bike, I see you couldn’t fully let go the idea of touring without panniers…
After having the itinerary changed and a $75 charge for a shuttle ride back to the start AFTER I paid for the tour, I wasn’t about to take any chances. In any case this was an easy way to carry my rain gear, lunch and emergency water. Whenever the bikes went on the roof of the van, we had to remove our handlebar and saddle bags. I stuffed them and my helmet into the pannier and put them in the trailer. Worked out fine.
I have leg cramps like that now pretty regularly, even when I haven’t been riding. Is yours due to cycling? Good on you for doing the 90!!!
Yes. Whenever I wear a face covering I tend to drink less so my electrolytes get messed up.