DAY 4

Today was a long day (interpret as you like)
left Aviemore (Excellent B&B - moves ahead of the field into the lead, the proprieters gave a £20 sponsorship as we left!)

Today the plan was to work as a four, taking turns leading into the wind. The wind became driving rain necessitating a cosy sojourn in  a convenient bus shelter as wet weather gear was donned (still only 5 miles done) The route took us through a mountain pass much of which on national cycle network route. Looking around revealed a fair amount of snow on the summits. Stopped for portable carbs, hoping for a coffee stop later on, this, unfortunately , did not transpire until much later than hoped (Blair Atholl). Conditions pretty cold and wet, progress slow. We peaked (altitude -wise) at Drumochter Summit 462m (1516feet !!) then there followed a long and rapid descent (the old A9) almost all the way to Pitlochry.
Unfortunately the old man of the team was having a difficult day today (extreme wind resistance of excessive facial hair)and eventually the team became splintered along the usual lines..
 It was a day of mixed scenery: from the harshness of the mountains, riverside vies (Spey and Tay) to a rolling, green agricultural vista. All in all a spectacular cocktail of scenery, riding conditions and spirits.
and Finally, finally on to the imposing city of Perth for welcome night's rest and refuelling.




Miles: 94
total mileage:301
yellow jersey: Chris
lanterne Rouge: John