Today was Day 2 of the 8 day 750 mile international elite professional bike race through California. It will probably be remembered as the day with the most brutal destination - Mt San Jacinto in Palm Springs with a temperature of 111degrees!
The route included a stretch outside of Idyllwild through Garner Valley to the desert below.
We waited for hours enjoying the scenery and our lunch and wondered if we were in the right spot.We were about to give up and go home....
Then the first riders ahead of the Peloton showed up.
Support for the teams.
Minutes later the Peloton arrived! Energy and excitement replaced the calm, quiet valley!
The winner of Stage 1, Lieuwe Westra from team Vancansoleil DCM is in the yellow shirt on the left.
The BMC team had one of their members, T Van Garderen ,come in second in today's race.
Although these riders were at the back of the Peloton, their teammate, Javier Acevedo crossed the finish line first and he will be wearing the yellow jersey tomorrow.
Since we were the only spectators on this stretch of the race, we were rewarded with bottles representing teams around the world - Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands and USA.
What a great day! How often do you get an international bike race around the corner from where you live?
It sure inspires us to get out on our bikes! Definitely in Garner Valley but not in Palm Springs in the summer!
You can follow the rest of the race on amgentourofcalifornia.com
