Race journey day two

On Tuesday we became very well acquainted with the FBO in Elko.  The weather foiled our intentions to continue flying that day.  We had intermittent periods of rain, low clouds and cool temperatures.  Most concerning was weather along the race route ahead.  No one left Elko that day.  Several teams took off Monday evening to complete a third leg before the end of day one, but for those of us who stayed the night on race day one, we ended up staying a second night in Elko as well.  All of the racers were super friendly, playing cards, sharing stories and enjoying meals together.  Throughout the day we reviewed forecasts and briefings hoping for a window of clearer skies to depart.  We were all a bit anxious and concerned, realizing that all of the time we remained in place meant that there was decreasing likelihood of completing the race course on time and with all of the proper timing procedures.

El Aero FBO was hospitable and fortunately had several rooms to host all 15 teams.  The front room had a fireplace and plenty of hot beverages.  Who would have thought this would be appealing in mid June?!  We read that in Elko county cattle outnumber humans 3:1 in the county.  Elko also celebrates the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and an annual Basque festival.  We did not see cattle but we also did not see many people.  Current times in the region supposedly find much activity focused on the railroad as well as gold mining.

By 3:30 PM we were certain that we would be staying another night in Elko and secured a room in a hotel with other race teams.   Our dinner was in the restaurant at the hotel/casino next door to our hotel.  Caroline and Cara had hot chocolate.  

The temperature was dropping and the Airmets for icing, clouds and mountain obscuration were too threatening for our VFR race with high altitude passes over the next leg.