“The one time… in Nepal, I cycled just over 320 kilometers with six other ladies from across the United States. I knew some of them, others didn't, and there was even a mystery participant! We couldn't have explored Nepal in better company! "
In the summer of 2018, I was coaching at an event hosted by Ladies AllRide in Brevard, NC, when another coach, Susan Clifford, offered to join me on a trip to Nepal that would take place in October 2019. His invitation could not have come at a better time! I was starting to need to recharge my batteries, and a bike trip with some fantastic companions was really the best way to do it. I accepted, and I have never regretted it. Susan turned to World Ride, a company that organizes guided treks in Nepal. She was also the bridge between all of us, who lived in different states.
We met in Kathmandu in October 2019, after a year of planning and training. I knew Susan and Michele, a friend I met at Roam Fest in Brevard. I didn't know the other four, but we seemed to have hooks: they lived either in Vermont or nearby, in Washington state. And there was Sarah, unknown to all, who wanted to make the trip, but didn't have a group. The World Ride organizers asked Susan if Sarah could join us, and that's how we met this great companion!
In short, we did the Annapurna Circuit in 10 days with two guides and porters, a trip of just over 320 kilometers. We left Besisahar, at about 760 meters above sea level, and made our way to Thorong La Pass, at 5416 meters above sea level, where the descent began. There, my Instinct 70 shone with its comfort throughout the day and its efficiency during the descent to Jomosom, to our final destination! It was truly the trip of a lifetime. Thanks to my family and friends, I was able to leave my daughter at home for a three-week trip to this beautiful country, in the company of incredible women that I will never forget, all in my vehicle of choice. : my bicycle!
