Christchurch to Arthur's Pass: WINDY!!!!!

January 31, 2017

We officially started the Southern Alps tour today by driving from Christchurch to Springfield where we began riding. Sadly there was another strong northwesterly blowing mostly as a cross wind so it made cycling really tough. Gail and I struggled through the first 12km sometimes only riding 10kph on the flats. We were both blown off the road twice without falling but it was a little unnerving. We had already decided that we were not riding Porters pass due to the narrow, steep roads with no shoulder but the wind made it extra tough. Four of our group tackled the pass but only two made. The other two acquiesced 3/4s of the way up. The winds were running 50kph and gusting up to 70kph. Later we did another 9km so our total for the day was only 21km but in these conditions I will take it. The winds are supposed to die down tonight and I think we are going to dodge the rain for the moment at least. We are staying at a wilderness lodge in the Craigieburn Range. As part of our stay we were given a tour of a working Merino sheep ranch complete with working dogs, feeding some lambs and a shearing demonstration. Photos tomorrow

After the short rides today we toured a working Merino sheep ranch at Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge. Me with a big castrated male Merino. Their wool goes to the Ice Breaker clothing company

Andrea the only woman to give it a go on Porter's Pass.

Henry and Andre struggling up this very tough climb into a strong head/cross wind.

Jo on the top. He and one other fellow made it all the way. The wind is so strong he was almost blown over while I was taking this photo.

Christopher bottle feeding an orphan lamb during our farm tour.

Today's ride: 21 km (13 miles)
Total: 1,211 km (752 miles)

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