7th report from US

After some 1700 miles the team has reached Missouri today. Racers had to battle strong eastern winds. Marko had to endure not only unfavorable forces of nature but still has to battle a never ending battle with the infection on his behind. He even voiced his desperate desire for a more mountainous terrain. If he were to bike uphill then he would have to stand and in return would not have to sit on his sore spot. But as bad luck would have it, it is pretty flat where they are right now.
Marko is after five and a half days in 5th position. He hopes to catch up with his rivals soon even though he has severe infection problems.
Mare is so tired that sometimes he unwittingly causes very dangerous situations. There are moments when he falls asleep while pedaling and starts swerving left and right. As you know from our previous reports there is heavy traffic on interstate highways which are also not designed for bicyclists and are therefore very dangerous. The escort team fears not only for his safety but also for his life. Which causes them to forgo sleep in order to provide for his absolute security.
Markos wife Irma has assumed the role of the project leader of his team. Her role is very demanding as she has to make important decisions every day of the race. While at the same time she has to think about Marko not as her beloved husband who is in pain but as a world class athlete who wishes to win inspite of everything.

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