Naran extended the invitation to join him in Tucson in November for El Tour de Tucson during our GDMBR ride this summer. It would be the only official century event I would participate in this year, because the GDMBR precluded most of my road riding. Despite limited riding for three weeks prior due to flu symptoms, lack of sleep due to a lousy room, and no breakfast I presented myself at the start five minutes before the gun. It took about twenty minutes to ride past the official start point after the leaders took off.
We had a mild headwind for the first 30 miles or so. After about 8 miles you have your first "river" crossing, which fortunately was not flowing at this time. The rules require you to walk your bike; carrying it is optional.
On the other side was the first rest stop and entertainment.
I learned the night before the race/tour that Naran had been stung by a bee earlier in the week and would not be joining me at the start. He decided to do the 66 mile version, and we promised to meet up near the second river crossing/ hike-a-bike section about 46 miles into my ride. Despite two flats I made it on time and we rode the rest of the race/tour together.

