Thursday, October 16, 2025

Day 12: Columbus, NM to El Paso, TX – 73 Miles of Desert Glory

 We clocked a solid 73 miles today, pedaling out of Columbus, NM, and making our grand entrance into the Lone Star State!

The day's ride served up some truly spectacular Chihuahuan Desert vistas. The stark, expansive beauty of the desert landscape was the perfect backdrop for what we're collectively calling the best riding conditions of the tour so far. We enjoyed favorable tailwinds and absolutely beautiful sunny weather with low humidity. When you're racking up the miles, a day like this feels like a gift.

A unique highlight that broke up the miles was our visit with Ben C., a New Mexico State Trooper. He was kind enough to humor a bunch of dusty cyclists, chat with us, and even take our photo. He also offered to tase one of the team... entirely in jest, of course! A good laugh and a reminder of the kindness of strangers.

We officially crossed the mighty Rio Grande today. While its name suggests grandeur, at this time of year the flow was low and less than "grand", but it was still a milestone to pedal over the historic waterway.

Tonight, we're settled in Sunland Park, TX. Being the Louisvillian on the team, it's a relative fact of local pride: we're right down the street from the horse racing track that produced Mine That Bird, the longshot who went on to win the Kentucky Derby!

Tomorrow is a shorter course – only 40 miles – as we have to navigate the more urban landscape of El Paso before heading to Fabens, TX. We're well-rested and ready to tackle the city traffic and keep Project 2950 rolling east!

Google Photos Link

Strava Activity Link

Had the honor of transporting Scout today...the Top Dawg Award!

 

Officer Ben C. was kind enough to snap our photo!

Home of KY Derby Winner - Mine That Bird!






1 comment:

  1. We will have to share the Bluey "Scout" pic on the map at school! The kids will love it.

    ReplyDelete