I think the harsh lighting due to the mid-day sun hurt this picture. The subject is good, and definately meets the challenge. I think you should go back and get a late afternoon, or early morning shot for comparison purposes. 6
Hi. Great subjects. IMO, this would work better if taken earlier or later in the day. You'd get better light and colors. Also, you should try to maximize the picture size so we can see more of the texture details.
very nice. only comment would be the time of day you shot this. Looks like blazing midday sun... softer lighting would have reduce contrast and brought out color a lot more. nice shot.