Melinda posted on June 16, 2010 20:16
Well it's been ten days...work does get in the way!
The Bettys had a great ride last night, we missed those who couldn't come out, and, we missed some who did come out, sorry Sarah! (caught up at Whistler's though, which was fun). Man, it was a busy place in the woods! The weather was perfect and after a few days of rain and more in the forecast I guess everybody who could made the effort to come out.
We did meet one particularly speedy rider abruptly at the top of a climb, apparently he was under the false impression that that trail was a 'downhill' It is so important to be aware that the Don trails, which apart from a couple of very short clearly marked one-way areas, are bidirectional and one must be vigilant at all times for oncoming riders and unexpected obstacles on the path. A bell or horn can help to avert disaster. Thank you, Barb. Fortunately our speedy friend was well cushioned by some tall bushes when upon coming to an abrupt stop he didn't clip out and slowly 'fell' uphill.
With respect to unexpected obstacles, we received a very disturbing email today regarding a length of 50lb fishing line that had been strung up across the trail in the lower Don recently, fortunately found by an observant rider before someone was hurt....evidently it was placed there maliciously. This just underscores that the world can be a nasty place when you least expect it. We've posted the email on our forum. I love riding our trails but they are in the centre of a very large urban area, this kind of news is disappointing to say the least...not that I will be deterred...I will just be more cautious, and have faith that, surely for every bad there are more 'goods', just like on the trails or a race course for every fun down there are more good-for-you ups!
Speaking of 'goods' we are looking forward to the Lake to Lake event this coming weekend...we've been talking lots about nutrition and hydration, check out the general forum, Steve has posted some really helpful nutritional information. Over the next few days a little extra sleep, a little extra carbs and little extra fluids will help to make Sunday more manageable...it is supposed to be a hot one and sunny!!! In addition, with respect to practicalities we had a lively discussion last evening about comfort and it was unanimously decided that loads of chamois buttr or the like is in order for the hot sticky day that is forecasted, just saying, for those who missed the discussion!
Ride On!
Melinda