The weather gods smiled on ‘always sunny’ Pt. Noarlunga, the Southern Vales and the 17 riders that turned up for the scenic trundle that is The ’L’ Ride. We welcomed some riders new to this particular group so welcome to Michelle, Jason (from Largs) Matt, Greg, Zippy and the Dark Horse (Richard).
The first half of the ride was into a fresh headwind, especially along the coast. It was strong enough to cause some discomfort for a few riders. Fortunately all riders maintained their stomach contents!
The highlight of the day was when the cry of “Strava Sector” went up along California Road going past Tatachilla School. Steve Ellison set off like a man possessed, not so closely followed by Wattsy in an attempt to perform something very remotely resembling a breakaway and chase. It was all over after 300 meters (of a 750 meter stretch of road) where RD6 gently passed the wheezing Wattsy and caught up with ‘sore legs’ Steve (sore after his initial conquering of Old Willunga Hill yesterday).
The return trip was with the wind and Spartacus’ ascent of the Coast to Vines from Victor Harbour Road to Seaford surprised even him (pushing upwards of 30kph – I’m sure he won’t mind me saying).
As always, a safe ride is a good ride and everyone made it back to Beck’s to fight the crowds for a coffee (we may have to rethink our finish point folks). Thanks Colin for making it down for the coffee. I guess as Trent was unable to ride today your puncture repair services were not going to be required on the ride!
Lastly, it is pleasing to see how well the experienced riders are welcoming and encouraging the newer riders. For mine it’s what a social ride is all about.
Gathering for the start
Zippy patiently waiting for the birth ofhis first child (due TODAY) by hopping on his first 'L' Ride!
Stand over tactics employed by the group to get their coffees!
The FUIC flowed freely post-ride.
Heading down California Road (Video)
Tags: Cyclists, Road, Southern, Suburbs, learners, newbies, slowbies
Permalink Reply by Steven Ellison on December 3, 2011 at 12:27
Permalink Reply by Steven Ellison on December 3, 2011 at 12:29 Good ride Wattsy, its good to mix it with people you don't normally get to talk to. Great day for it.
Permalink Reply by Matt Brennan on December 3, 2011 at 13:05 An embedded video in a ride report!
Nice! you don't see that often.
Permalink Reply by Patrick O'Kane on December 3, 2011 at 13:20 That was a great ride this morning Wattsy. It was good to ride with so many different people at various times along the way, Chatting with old friends and new acquaintances. Great to see Paul riding off into the wild blue yonder on the way back with a tailwind, he's been looking at new bikes and once he's got one and shoes, cleats etc. there'll be no stopping him.
We even had a nice group of four meet at the tunnels on the S.Exy for the ride down to Becks, although only three rode back ;- )
Even managed to crack a PB on the Brodie Rd Strava segment on the way back to cap off an awesome morning.
Permalink Reply by Matt Brennan on December 3, 2011 at 21:23 Sorry I was cast heavily by the burden of many bread rolls and sweet yeast buns....Too many for my back pockets:)
I shall now have to go out tomorrow morning as penalty for the lift home and indulgence!
Great morning ride, good to have Jason along and always enjoy riding with Wattsy.
Permalink Reply by Andrew on December 3, 2011 at 19:39 Thanks Mark. It was great to have another ride with Jason. Haven't done so since your ChristChurch ride. Maybe you'll head down for another one of the Muddies rides?
Permalink Reply by Jason Jones on December 3, 2011 at 20:33
Permalink Reply by Patrick O'Kane on December 3, 2011 at 13:30 I'm looking forward to the California shootout next time we do this route. Thrre riders tied on 38secs on Strava.
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Richard Smith | Sat, Dec 03, 2011 | 52.4 km/h | - | - | - | 0:38 |
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Rob Dobson | Fri, Nov 11, 2011 | 52.4 km/h | 155 bpm | 110 w | - | 0:38 |
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Steven Ellison | Sat, Oct 22, 2011 | 52.4 km/h | 133 bpm | - | - | 0:38 |
Permalink Reply by Richard Smith on December 3, 2011 at 19:27 Marvellous the enthusiasm a video camera brings out!
Permalink Reply by Steven Ellison on December 3, 2011 at 20:21 So is this where we start the discussion about how reckless charging mindlessly with all out agression at downhill challenges is, well, reckless and mindless?
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