Had a great ride AND.... (story time)

[Frankd3000]

Last Friday....

Whilst enjoying the lazy slumber that has been my vacation it was a dull and dreary day. Clouds everywhere with a threat of rain. Really, just a crappy lookin' day. I puttered about on the ol' laptop, uninspired to do, well, anything.

Shortly after noontime the clouds cleared and the sun shone brightly, invitingly. I was "pepped" into going for a ride.

I packed up Frank and headed up to my favourite trails, Albion Hills. As I drove I enjoyed the fall colours, sunshine and thought of having the place to myself. "No one is there at this time of day", I thought to myself.

I arrived, heading to the Chalet trailhead area. Low and behold - another car! "Okay, I guess I can share" I mused. I parked and started getting things ready.

"Hey, where is everyone?" I heard. I laughed, ready to reply when I realized I knew that voice. I popped my head up and looked over.....

"AIRMAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"



I stood in shock! What a fluke! Derek (aka, airman) and I had tried a few times to get together for a ride before, but the timing or weather never co-operated. Today was different. Neither of us had planned on going untill the last minute and figured the other was busy with work.

We got our rigs together, compared rides and headed out. Thanksfully Derek was prepared with extra water, as my usual supply, the convenince store, was closed. (thanks again Derek!)

We headed off. I knew i'd be in for a lesson! Derek has won a few of the local series and I was eager to see the pace a pro rider would carry. Yeah, he wooped my butt! [smiley=laughing.gif] I don't think he was even trying!

I did my best to keep up. Thankfully I only crashed once (caught a rut while braking into a corner [smiley=disbelief.gif] ) and I was rewarded with better climbing than I had been acustomed to. Watching Derek ride through everything he made it look simple. It was very inspiring! Keeping tabs on the lines he chose was something a bit tough to do, but I managed.

We stopped to take a break and I figured i'd shoot some pics while I caught my breath.

Mild mannered Clark Ke... I mean Derek! [smiley=laughing.gif]




Scrawny ol' me.



I'll take my "Ugliest member of the forum award" in the form of a trophy, thanks.


We were off again. No more crashing, lots of appreciation of the outdoors and trails, some chit-chat 'bout dis'n'dat, good times, for sure!

It was a real treat to be able to ride with someone who has Derek's abilities, attitude, compsoure, skill and so many other good things (long list, he's a really cool guy!).

While there are no more "riding" pics (I was too busy trying to keep up! [smiley=laughing.gif] ) I did snap more of the scenic type in the parking lot afterwards.



There you have it. Totally a fluke meeting up, a GREAT ride, no breakage, minimal injury and perfect weather.

THANKS Derek! I hope we can get out to ride together more often. It was an honour!

Okay, i'm done.