OWLs Expand Vocabulary, Leadership

by Shelley Bradfield and Kathy Cummins

After "connoiterring" before 5:45 and discussing the possibility of rain (predicted by some who would avoid hills!) the OWLs set off on a ride with two good hills and a fast pace (or was that just me feeling the push?)! Two slightly late riders joined us to finalize our group at 14, and we negotiated busy Snoddy and then it was smooth sailing out to the waterworks. Although two groups developed on Harrell, with a comfortable cushion in between, we all "reconnoitered" at the waterworks to discuss a possible route alteration due to the impending wet stuff. With some avoiding the Sailing Club hill and others taking the Shady Side route, no one was inclined to head home. Although some of us had to heave up the hillside, Stan joined our group and fast-pedaled it twice up the mountain - go Stan! The Shady Side group wasn't far behind the puffing hill climbers and we set off for our second steep climb Moores Creek. Although Nathan and Tammy had debated about a less steep route on their tandem, they ground it up Moores Creek and some singing is rumored to have occurred at the top J. Around 7:40 pm, riders found their own ways home and in spite of Tom's cynicism, no one got wet! What a great way to spend a spring evening.

This ride marked the debut of two new ride leaders, Shelley and Kathy. Allan and CE encourage everyone to step up and lead a ride this season. Take some friends and fellow riders on your favorite route!