We crossed the Hudson this morning, and followed State Cycle Route 9 South along the river. The road were relatively quiet, with the exception of a couple of sections around more urban areas. An overcast sky brought with it cooler temperatures, and intermittent showers. Rolling hills reminded us of our training rides through Devon, although not quite as severe. We stopped for lunch at midday having covered just 30 miles, and there was talk of wat we could do if we didn't make it all the way to Poughkeepsie.
The roads were quicker in the afternoon, and we were set to reach Poughkeepsie by 5:30 pm despite having 47 miles to cover after lunch. On route, we stopped for a "comfort break" on the roadside, and were spotted by a highway patrol officer, who swerved around to meet us. After a short reprimanding for our choice of location, he let us off with a verbal warning. We later saw him speed past us after another car, which he pulled over ahead.
Having no reply from any hosts on town, and a distinct lack of camping facilities nearby, we decided to shelter from the growing storm in a cafe. We called around the local motels and found the cheapest, over the river from the town. Crossing the river was over an old railway bridge, uncovered and exposed to the full force of the wind and rain. Crosswinds forced us sideways, horizontal rain stung our eyes. Two double beds, a hot shower and a Chinese takeaway delivered to our motel room hit the spot.
Tomorrow we will attend a dedication of a new 9/11 memorial in town at 11 am before riding South to West Point Military Academy to tour the grounds. 90 miles to New York.
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