Day 6, June 9, 2017, Lompoc to Ventura, ICE CREAM

Lompoc to Ventura
Day 6 begins on one of the prettiest roads on the entire route. You will pedal through vast expansive ranchlands with wildflower-covered hills on both sides! As you ride toward the coast through the gorgeous Gaviota Pass, you will be on US101. After lunch, you will pass through the heart of Santa Barbara, Montecito and Carpinteria, and on into Ventura, where we camp at San Buenaventura State Beach. Highlight of the day: Day 6 is your best bet for dolphin sightings!! Cast an eye to the sea and perhaps you will glimpse those playful creatures jumping in and out of the water as they frolic just off the coast. 

That's a blurb from the ALC website. I haven't seen the dolphins yet, maybe next year.

This is a shot of the band that performed atop many hills on the ride. Made up of guys who are long time riders and couldn't do the ride for the entire week this year, for a variety of reasons, but couldn't stand to be away either.

Rest Stop 2 is where we wait for CalTrans and CHP to work together to close a lane on a bridge at 9:30 am. Cyclists are then funneled through, 20 at a time, for the stretch down 101. Depending on when you arrive at the rest stop it can be a long wait. I got really lucky this year and was only there 20 min. Barely enough time to grab a snack and use the potty.
Larry and Jan at lunch, at beautiful Girsh Park in Goleta.

Rest stop 3, I needed a slight adjustment to my bike and mechanic Debbie, one of only a couple female mechanics on the ride, was glad to assist.

Diane is a retired PG&Er who has ridden the ride and volunteered well over 15 years. She and sister Nita are the Sweeping' Beauties, helping cyclists who need a lift to the next stop.

Emilia, Diane (Nita in car) David & Jan, at RS 3 in Santa Barbara.

After RS 3 is the famous Santa Barbara Ice Cream Stop, Paradise Pit. This is hosted by people in Santa Barbara each year and is a highlight for everyone. It's on a little piece of City owned land. Volunteers pay for and scoop ice cream and toppings and give cheer to all. They even provide portapotties for the riders.

Jan, John and Tim happened to be there at the same time.

The last night in camp there is a trek to the water at the beach where we camp. A candlelight vigil is held. Family and friends are welcome to join participants for this silent and very emotional time. We remember those we've lost and those striving to live healthy lives with positive HIV status and focus on the love that is shared during the week.