Kurt called us about 7 PM MDT from Silverton.  He wasn't aware that his SPOT only worked for an hour this morning.  He had put fresh batteries in it last night, and it seemed OK this morning, so he doesn't know why it's not transmitting.  He really enjoyed the beauty of today's section, but had to do a lot of hike-a-bike.  He said "the CT is fun if you sleep a lot."  And he also said that Jefe is a legend among the hikers for finishing in 4 days!

Kurt's Dad

Kurt's dad again...

Just got a call from Caroline Soong.  She and several other riders (Lance & Lucas, at least) were climbing to Marshall Pass south of Salida and were turned back due to a route closure from an apparent fresh fire somewhere ahead near the pass.  She said they are considering detouring via Monarch Pass using US 50.  But they are worried about being disqualified if they use the detour.  They don't know anything about the size of the fire, or if the route might be reopened soon.  They're trying to check with the local authorities (they have returned to Poncha Springs) for more information on the fire and the closure.

What is the "proper" course of action to take when riders encounter an unexpected route closure like this?  Do they risk being relegated if they go off route without prior approval?  And who should they be contacting for advice and approval? 

---Ron

Kurt's dad here.  I just spoke to Kurt; he's still a bit north of Abiquiu.  He got a slow start this morning, and Jefe caught him soon after that.  Apparently they have been riding together all day.  Jefe had no idea his SPOT wasn't working, and they laughed at the speculation going on here.  Looks like it may go down to the wire.