One word .... Sharav.

Details to follow :-).  But, the short story is that the first day of the Israel Ride was, for me, like none other - peak temperature of 113 degrees, about three consecutive hours of temps over 105, howling cross winds, no shade.  And, a bicycle ride.   The excitement and satisfaction of finishing it, and the friends that I made along the route, is immense.  That said, I'm really looking forward to better weather tomorrow!