LEG 009 - Dec 27, 2021

Winchester to Hinsdale

Distance: 6.01 Time: 50:43

Mid 20s, overcast - fortunately no issue with ice or footing on side of road. Route was very simple - follow 119 west along Ashuelot river. I can tell this is one of the easier routes as I've been scouting ahead. Some rolling curvy bumps about 3 miles in for a couple of miles. Nothing significant, fortunately no car issues as there are some narrow windy sections with guardrails and not much room to maneuver.

Stopped 2 1/2 miles in to take pictures at Ashuelot covered bridge. Section of houses through this section were weathered and in disrepair. Looks to be aging through neglect (too bad) and is more a town people pass through.

Haley was my support today. We first drove up to Claremont so she could get her Covid booster at a walk-in clinic and then drove back down to Winchester via Rte 10. Was a good way to see some future leg terrain (Lempster, Goshen). Not a Dunkin Donuts to be seen along our drive - something to keep in mind.

Pushed myself a bit today knowing that the next run to Chesterfield will be dialed way back on pace as it is a tough hilly one right out of the gate with my first taste of 1000 feet of elevation climb during a run. Can't wait (he said sarcastically). I did stop a couple of times today on the run to take in scenery and get pictures (like covered bridge) and stop to tie shoe laces.

Last 2 miles of route are very pleasant with significant downhill followed by gradual descent into Hindsale town and past village homes. I'm sure the route is prettier when there are leaves on the trees and some greenery around. Today was more dark and dank.

Random thoughts:

- drove next leg - feel better that I can take it on. While 1st 4 miles have significant hells, there are some areas that offer an opportunity to recover a bit.

- saw marker for Hinsdale's Auto Pioneer 1875 steam propelled auto build site.