NKCR Sept 9, 2017 – Lethbridge to Medicine Hat – Hot and Windy

Another day on the road – day 4 of 18. Today we got a bit clear of the smoke but then had to deal with prairie heat. Lesson learned on the shuttle to Lethbridge – it’s _hard_ to paint your fingernails in a moving RV :). Between fingernail paint, and stockings (well full of ice) and soon to be a skirt (well kilt) I think I’m getting in touch with my feminine side.
The blue fingernail worn by myself and many of the riders is for my friend Ulana and  in honor of her daugher Taissa who earned her wings in 2001 at 13 years of age.
Our dedication today is for Cassy, who also lost her life to cancer just four days after her 13th birthday. Cassy’s bucket list included things any teenage girl would want to do, get her belly button pierced, learn to drive, have a Hawaiian Luau birthday party and visit with family. She was taken from us too soon, and we dedicate today’s ride to her.
Today we rode from Lethbridge to Medicine Hat, approximately 170 km, due east. We had a stiff tailwind/crosswind for much of the day and as we rode away from the smoke, it got HOT. Thanks to our medical team who made sure we kept hydrated and who made us stockings filled with ice to manage some of the heat. With a strong tailwind, we made good time, averaging over 30 kph for the trip.
Along the way, we see tremendous support from the communities, providing us with food and places to stop and rest/refuel along the way. We are also honoured to see turnout of local families and friends of riders and crew along the way, as we saw today with Corrie and David Dale’s turnout along the way. Without the support of these folks, we couldn’t possibly make it all the way to Halifax, and we thank you and love you more than you will ever know.
Tomorrow we ride from Swift Current to Estevan. Thanks again to all the crew, families, and you, readers, for your support and love. Until tomorow.

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