Author Archives: PookieBear

Greetings!  After a few days without internet, I’m back… Today’s route from Alba to Cioccaro di Penango was the longest ride of the tour; however, the frequent stops for gelatto, espresso, and limonata made the milage not seem so bad.  … Continue reading →

I’m not sure what exactly it means, but it’s an Italian idiom Enrico taught us at dinner tonight. A flat stretch out of Alba this morning was enough to make me realize that my legs were feeling the previous four … Continue reading →

Today’s ride was from Acqui Terme to Alba.  The area is known for its hazelnuts and is the home of Nutella.  The group met up in the town of Monastero Bormida, a medieval town where the original bridge still in … Continue reading →

I couldn’t have asked for a better group to bike and spend my vacation with.  It is a diverse group and each person has had such unique experiences. They have also taught me so much, inluding: 1. Don’t pull the cord … Continue reading →

Today’s ride was a 51 km loop from Acqui Terme passing through towns including: Alice Bel Colle, Quaranti, and Mombaruzzo. There were a few steady climbs during the day, including a 3K limb into Castelrocchero and a short climb of … Continue reading →

Everyone who rides, especially in Indiana, is familiar with the granny gear- that infamous third front chain ring which indicates you are too much of a weenie to conquer climbs with the gears of a true roadie.  In today’s ride from Gavi … Continue reading →

Of what country shall I be afraid? Today was long and tiring, but exciting and fulfilling at the same time. The trip from Milan to Monterotondo was quite the experience, taking a good 7 hours. Thankfully I spent my time … Continue reading →

So, just to make sure I had plenty of time in case of navigational errors- I arrived at JFK a good 5 hrs early. This has given me plenty of time to learn a little Italian. Please note the previous … Continue reading →

Not sure if I’m excited, nervous, or have had too much coffee today.  Thankfully I have a passport!!  Tomorrow will be a true test of my navigational abilities… ekks.  So, plenty of time has been allotted for my anticipated misdirection. … Continue reading →