Day 5 - Saturday, August 15, 2009

Day 5 - Celebration - Part 1

So much for getting a good night's rest! Our weary warriors found it tough to sleep last night because it was freezing cold with temperatures in the 30s. In addition, another bear visited their campsite and interrupted their sleep, causing quite a stir. Rumor has it he was attracted to the "honey" yellow Paddlin' for Paws t-shirts -- looks like they appeal to all demographics!

Day 5 began with a 7:20 a.m. launch (the last boat left at 7:26 a.m.) with calm water that looked like glass. Our paddlers caught a break! They enjoyed a leisurely paddle to a hotel for breakfast, as well as the luxury to make 10-minute stops along the way. However, the conditions changed later in the day, as the familiar "Tahoe chop" made its appearance on the way to Zephyr Cove.

Today marked the final voyage for three of our "Super Six" paddlers: Jennie, April, and Mary. As planned, this "triumphant trio" crossed their much anticipated finish line at Zephyr Cove around 1:30 p.m. They did it! They accomplished their goal! There was much to celebrate, and yet, at the same time, there was a little sadness in the air, as the group knew that they would now split up. Parting really was sweet sorrow!

To shorten the final section of the lake on Sunday, the other half of the "Super Six," Lynda, Mo, and Trish, along with Michelle (who joined for the day), would continue on for an additional three miles to Cave Rock after taking a half-hour break at Zephyr Cove. With a 3 p.m. arrival, they had plenty of time to rest, relax, and recharge. With pre-arranged massages awaiting them, our athletes savored the much-needed spoiling. No one could say they didn't earn a little pampering!

After they finished their massages, they attended a meet and greet at a beach bar. Unfortunately, no one else showed up, but nevertheless they enjoyed their time together. They shared the story of how Mary had earlier approached two women on the beach to solicit them for donations (during a group break). Both women gave her $5 ($10 total for the math challenged!) and shouted out from a bridge above when they later saw them paddling, "We saved one! We saved one!" Nicely done, Mary!

They also reflected on how April's rudder on her boat broke at the last rest stop during the day. It appeared that she would have to pay $150 or more to fix it. However, a big "shout out" goes to Tahoe Kayak Rental, who agreed to fix the boat at no charge because April was a member of the Paddlin' for Paws fundraiser. Thanks again for showing such generosity for the cause!

The group also talked about their visit from Dennis from the Lake Tahoe Water Trail. He stopped by yesterday at the campsite to offer his support. His presence gave our paddlers some additional motivation for their final and toughest portion of the lake on Sunday. Most "normal" people would do the tougher sections first--and then make their final day an easier one. Heck, even the Tour de France has a ceremonial last lap on the final day. However, our yellow t-shirt paddlers would have none of that pomp and circumstance. Their Sunday paddle will be their most grueling one yet. Well, in their minds, I suppose they saved the "best" for last!

Since this will be my final post, Blogger Labman is now officially passing the "blog baton" over to Lynda. It's been an honor having the chance to write about these determined women and their supporters.

Here's to a Super Sunday!

Over and out,
Sue