Alligators Galore - Palatka 61.3 miles.

Last longish day of the trip. Funny to be pleased it is only a '60 mile' day. Set off early, before 7.00 am, as usual, and picked up the Gainsville/Hawthorne State Trail which was to be part of my route for 16 miles. Dave had said if we visited an off-shoot, the La Chua Trail we might see alligators. As I walked along it I met a local hiker, Danny, who knew the area well. He took me to a large pool and there were about 30 gators slumbering at the waters edge. They just looked like large logs, it was great to see them at last. He also said there were bison, deer and boar in the area. Antway, a cycle tour beckoned and I had to carry on. At Melrose Todd and Dave caught up with me and we stopped at a convenience store. They left before me and that's when I noticed I had a front flat, a farewell present from America. I was busy fixing it when who rolled in but Jon, the 'flat king'. I had found the hole in the tube but not the tyre. Jon squeezed the tyre and out flew a sliver of glass, he is my hero. Tyre fixed we headed off and just reached the motel in Palatka before the heavens opened and it poured down, hot rain and thundery. Some of the cyclists got caught 20 miles out. In the evening we went to a fish restaurant to celebrate our final night. Those of us, who have cycled EFI, ( every f..... inch ) were given rulers as a keepsake. Dave and Sean had bought us silly presents representing different aspects of the trip. Dan, a whoopee cushion, for strange noises in the night. Jon, a toy fishing rod, for trying but never catching any fish. Lisa, Little Miss Camper award for always being tidy about camp. Todd, a toy toolkit, as he was the gadget man. Robert M. washing powder for always shouting 'where's the laundry'. Dee, a toy alarm clock, for being first up. Merv, a spool, for winding up all his electrical cords. Robert C. an empty box to represent cleaning materials used on his bike. He oiled his chain twice. The Kiwi's, USA flag and Top Hat as they are so positive about everything American?? Lars, two soft toy dogs to practice his 'halt' aim. Me, a waffle making kit as I am the only person who goes into a Waffle House to put on weight. Most people there are already obese. We bought Dave and Sean one mile each of an ACA route, they will be given ownership certificates. Seemed appropriate. We had a great time, a good laugh, all were in good form, a fitting last night. So that is it, tomorrow,the last day of my big adventure, a short 40 miles to finish...think I might manage it don't you....still loving it.....