Ashkelon to Nitzana - 10/21/2010 - 100 Miles!

On a trip like this, today is what a I call a mileage ride .  We had to get from Ashelon to Nitzana, so off we went.  There wasn't much ultra-special to see along the way, but again, just realizing that I am riding through Israel is special onto itself.  The ride was planned to be 93-miles, but I knew if I made it, and had any energy left, I would go an extra 7 miles to hit 100.  In riding, a 100-mile ride is called a "century", and it is a right of passage.

The ride was quite easy geographically and logistically.  We went 60-miles south on one road, and then took a right onto another road for 33 miles, to the Egyptian border.  The ride throughout was mostly gentle rolling hills.  This was definitely the terrain to do 100-miles.  After leaving Askelon, we stopped for breakfast at a reservoir.  The reservoir was special for two reasons.  One, it is one of 240 reservoirs in Israel that are essential to the country's survival.  Two, because we overlooked the Gaza strip.  Even from afar, you could sense how crowded the Gaza strip is.  I was proud to learn that Israel on a number of occasions has offered the Palestinians in the Gaza access to Israel's water supply.  The Palestinians have refused because they fear the water supply would then be used as a weapon against them in a time of conflict.  Hey, you can't help but try.

Note:  Edge of reservoir with Gaza in the background.

After leaving the reservoir we headed into the Negev desert.  I thought this area was desolate, but it was nothing compared to what I would see the next day.  Much of the ride was spent traversing a military firing range.  We even rode through a large military complex which I assumed housed some of Israel's armored divisions.  The tanks at the gate entrance were my clue.  The ride continued uneventfully until we arrived at Nitzana.  At that point, I corraled 5 of my new riding buddies to go on with me to do the final 7 miles.  We rode right up to the Egyptian border and rode along the fence until we hit a "do not enter" sign.  We turned around and hit our 100-miles.  What a feeling.  Not only was it the longest bike ride I'd ever taken, it turns out it was also my fastest average mph.  I was quite proud of myself.

Note:  Firing range sign and my trusty steed (big red bike)

Nitzana is a kibbutz that focuses on educating Israel's school children about nature.  We had a fun communal dinner with what seemed like hundreds of teenage kids.  After dinner, and a presentation about Nitzana, it was again off to bed at 8:30.  The room was a classic kibbutz room - no frills - but I wasn't complaining.  All I needed was a hot shower, firm mattress and pillow.

Note:  Century club at Egyptian border.