Salt to Saint 2011

Todd - first leg - leading the pack down Wasatch Blvd.

 by Karin Marie

On a cool Friday morning in September,  team Recreate in Utah (RIU) joined together to begin what would be a 425 mile, 26.5 hour long adventure across the beautiful state of Utah. Our 8-man team consisted of Rick & Audra Jeske, Karin Marie Plunkett, John & Lisa Conrad, Todd Vincent, and Phil & Ronelle Patten; ranging in age from 36 to 52.  The Salt to Saint relay began at the State Capitol in Salt Lake City and ended in Saint George.  With a very strong start and wonderful weather conditions, we powered through our first few legs of the race.

Lisa - suffering wind and rain all the way to Ephraim - leg #7

Phil and Karin Marie
Did we say ALL NIGHT long?  
Still Smiling!

Mother Nature is consistent in her inconsistencies. That being true, we were about to experience an uncomfortable array from her arsenal that would both challenge the body and erode at the steel in our minds.  An increasingly persistent head wind with punchy gusts kicked up to welcome us into Elberta and pursued us until Mt. Carmel Junction.  The rain pelted down intermittently at first but soon became a resolute companion. Through the less than ideal weather conditions, the stunning countryside shone. Golden fields dotted with trees and pasture animals, colorful canyons, and majestic mountains comprised our route. It was a joy to experience the course outside of a vehicle where we could better connect with our surroundings.

As a team we became increasingly adept at preparing the next person heading out for the elements and at rescuing the sodden riders as they completed their legs- warming and drying them.  Through the night we rode with cycling shoes acting as sloshing tubs for chilly toes. The wet night air smelled of sage and pine - both crisp and clean. It was invigorating!

One of the surprises we encountered on our journey was the test of our mental mettle. We were prepared for the challenge this race afforded our bodies. We were not, however, ready for the exhaustion that results from long periods of unexpected stress. The tension of trying to stay the narrow path between traffic and road construction, the additional challenge of the weather, and the sleep deprivation all played in together to cause a collapse or two.

The morning sun brought with it a renewal of both energy and hope. We really were going to finish this relay after all. Happy day!  The skies cleared and beautiful weather welcomed us as we rode through the stunning colors of Southern Utah's sandstone on our  approach to the finish line in St. George.   We did it!!!  Exhausted and worn we unanimously agreed that team Recreate in Utah will definitely be found racing along the beautiful Utah countryside next year in the Salt to Saint Relay.

Team RIU