Day6: Leggings versus designer jackets

On his six stages of his ‘Once to the end of the world – and back’ tour Sigi Grabner brought in 1062 euros for Wings for Life. His blog about his experiences on day six – after 146 kilometers, 1680 meters in altitude and a riding time of six hours and ten minutes.

“Unfortunately, the weather is still cold and rainy. Bad luck. I didn’t see the mountains; everything was covered in fog and clouds. In retrospect I am very happy about the extra gear from GORE; it keeps me dry and warm – above all it has become clear that the waterproof shoe and helmet covers were a good idea!

Today I rode from Villablino over the mountain and to Galicia on the other side – it was freezing but there was a nice cycling route (with meandering curves). The landscape changes noticeably. It’s becoming greener and more voluptuous; lots of moss is growing on the stone walls and roofs … It seems to rain here more often.

Spain, the cycling country: on the side of every road there is a bike lane at least two meters wide – fantastic! I continued to Lugo, a small town about 80 kilometers before Santiago. The town is surrounded by a huge old city wall, which was built by the Romans. On top of the city wall is the recreation area of Lugo. People go for walks here; fathers are doing Sunday sport with their kids despite the rain, and I ride around the city once – around the top, of course.

At dinner in the hotel (my eveningwear consists of leggings plus a long-sleeved t-shirt) I am sitting next to three super stylish Italians in designer jackets; I’m eating shrimps drenched in olive oil and fried in a lot of garlic; I’m drinking Ribera del Duero (Condado de Oriza Reserva 2003) with my food. The weather is still bad. They’ve even forecast storms for tomorrow … But I’m going to continue a bit further on my pilgrimage for Wings for Life.”

Sigi Grabner – 08/06/09

Visit the official websites
www.sigigrabner.com
www.wingsforlife.com
www.redbull.com