Day 32. Tuesday, July 29 – Onich to Kilmelford, Scotland
Tuesday 29 July 2014
Wind was howling and the bands of rain covered the hills 
and that it just what we saw through our bedroom window. We managed to load our bikes and pedal a couple of miles to the bridge
before the first wave of rain hit. It was a quick shower, made cold by the driving wind. As we traveled along the Loch Linnhe, 
we watched the sun
and rain rush by on the other shore.
After seven miles, we connected with a bike path,
getting off the busy road, plus shielding us from the wind. Rolled up and down minimal hills, our tired legs feeling every pedal push. Rainbows were making sno-cones 
out of the top of the rounded hills. Though the temperatures remained in the mid-50’s, we had very little rain, 
so it was a much more enjoyable ride than expected. We passed many coves, filled with sailboats 
and a castle dating back to 1320.
The ride this morning was beautiful, 
even in the overcast skies.
Our route had us on the edge of the Loch
and over narrow bridges.
Three miles before lunch, tired and hungry having already put four hours in the saddle, we came to this sign.
This sign was not kidding; our legs screamed their displeasure but got us up the (at least) 20% grades and into the city of Oban.
Lunch was delicious
and a good break. After lunch, we only had 15 miles left, little did we know it would be by far, our toughest. Just getting out of town was a climb, which did not stop for a couple of miles, taking us into the countryside.
Up and down hills, 
none of them shorter than two miles and most of them longer, the incredible scenery 
did little to comfort the fatigue. Even after the fortifying lunch, we were spent. Just before four, we dropped down a wonderful hill to our hamlet for the evening.
It was not long before we found ourselves “refreshed”
refortified
and properly stuffed.
Amazing what 56 miles and six hours in the saddle will do to your appetite. We had expected a miserable and tough ride, today, but without the rain and wind in our face, it was just Tough!
Jim Says:
STOP IT ALREADY! I’m gaining weight just looking at all the food.
Are the “Bonnie Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond” going to see you this trip? One of the castles on your route today was home of Robert the Bruce in the 13th century. Key character in the “Braveheart” movie.
Bill Says:
Not only was Robert the Bruce the key character in the movie “Braveheart”, he was also a direct ancester of Lori, whose father was also named for him.
Pat and M.E. Says:
What beautiful flowers. And the food STILL looks delicious! 🙂
travis Says:
You just never know what to expect on this magical bicycle tour. Credit any fortunate happenstances (like nice weather and easy riding) to the local elves watching over ye. You must be getting really tired … I notice you have swapped Polar bottle colors … watch out for fashion police and cross-contamination.
Mike K. Says:
The Great Scotish Rambling race continues on. On to Lockoilort , We here at the Cecil OToole Sports hour we would like to thank all the Racers that showed up at Glenfinan Church. What a wonderful time !
Team Bocrie did not make it , last seen at the local pub slamming Guiness.
Team Olympus lost 1st place to Team Kalamazoo over the night in Onich. Team Olympuss had led the race longer than any team yet. Good Job Team Olympuss
Team Timbukto and Team Scotland are now tied and last seen fist fighting in Onich. Thats great sportsman ship. Hey whatever it takes to win the race. Read the Regulations .
It has been raining a lot these past days , but when we got to the Pennisula it magically stopped.
It appears All racers are having a Blast. Thank You Scotland for your accommodations
Race on !