CHALLENGE TRIED 2014

DAY 1
Thursday Aug 21

Heading out to Penticton BC via HWY 3 as I usually do. It's a nice route with a strategically placed rest stop also named "Manning Park Resort." The road is twisty and hilly with interesting views and a high probability of head on crashes or cliff diving. Being awake is key as I almost went off the road one year. Me and HWC are taking it slow and hugging the white line.

I've Been here before... Lovely

Arriving in Penticton always brings back memories of past visits good and bad. The weather was great for the drive, but turned sour as we rolled in to P town. (I just made that up).

HWC remained dry but not happy

A soggy Lakeshore outside the motel

The motel we stayed at was called "Rochester Resort" I picked this place for the location and relative cost effectiveness. It has terrible lighting, a TV  locked to low volume, Stupid AC placement Unpredictable WI FI connection and no "half kitchen." Other than that, it served its purpose but I won't be going back. Of coarse HWC was furious.

Home Base

DAY 2

Friday Aug. 22

After getting settled in and somewhat organized, I took the Tarmac out for a short spin up HWY 97 towards Kelowna. It's mostly a mental thing, but knowing for sure that nothing odd has happened to the steed during the travel time is gold. After my ride, I returned to Home Base and had found that my cycling jersey was void of the very keys I needed to open my front door. I assumed that the keys had popped out (along with a money pouch). So, of coarse I am furious and need to fix this. After heading over to the office where fatso owner is nowhere to be found, I sit and boil over. After some yelling, it all turned out fine. My money/ key pouch was still in the room. No hospitality points for the owner though. Goof.

My sister arrived and will help keep me dialled in. It is also a nice break from her "Simpsons World" She will hang out with me in Penticton and enjoy the goings ons. I told her that this race is nothing like Ironman. The streets and cafes would be much more packed. This is a much quieter affair. I hate it. I need the bizarre energy. At least the coarse hasn't changed (except the finish).

Sketch depicting my confrontation with the motel owner