Hopkins 4K for Cancer

June 17, 2007

by Eric Ahnmark
What a great day of cycling! We left Paola after a hearty breakfast, including perhaps the best cinnamon rolls I have ever had. After riding 115 miles the day before, the 73 mile day before us presented little challenge to our 1,500-mile tested legs. Our first full day in Kansas, the morning weather was much cooler than were our previous days in the “Show-Me” state. Best of all, however, was the brisk breeze that kept mainly at our backs throughout the day…yes, you heard me right…a TAILWIND!!! The team was a bit surprised by two rather long (for Kansas) hills, but afterwards it was mostly smooth sailing all the way until lunch. After a nice donation by a local Sonic, we hit the road again for an easy thirty miles into the capital city. Topeka appeared a bit lifeless on this father’s day, but such was little concern for the 4Kers as we hit the showers at the local YMCA. The First United Methodist Church welcomed us warmly with a delicious home-cooked supper of turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. After cramming our faces, most of the team settled into a long game of Mafia as others turned in for the night. A well-deserved day off greets us tomorrow.