Ride to Wrightwood
Hello Folks, greetings to one and all. These monthly rides are growing
by leaps, bounds, and members. Yep, I am here to say that I think there
were near as many "new" faces as there were the old guard. For quite a
few, this was their first ride with the SCVR/VRCC. From the general posts
on the mesg board, it looks like they all came away with a happy
feeling about the club.
The morning started out with groups coming from all points of the
compass. Yours truly came over from AZ and "Dennis from Blythe", came
near as far. The temp's, even in the early morning air, were comfortable
for most even through the local mtns for those fortunate to traverse
them.
Meeting up at Hansen Dam proved convenient and handy for the early
morning tire kicking, renewing old friendships, and making new ones. I
would be remiss in not mentioning the fat pills (doughnuts), coffee and
juice provided by Rob & Daryl. Nothing better to start the
adrenaline rush and get the
juices flowing.
After, the morning socializing, we got down to some needed business,
namely the 50-50 drawing. And for the second month in a row, one of the
"newbies", was lucky enough to win it. Actually, I personally think it
is neat when a new member wins the 50-50. The winner took away a healthy
$82, as we had a nice turnout.
If I have my numbers correct, there were 24 Valkyries and one Hardley. A
real quality group of biker
friendly people.
Also, as consolation prizes, there was a very NICE tote/carry all bag
(complements of CAT products from Mark) with the VRCC logo patch, and a nice
Red/Wht model Valkyrie (from Daryl & Rob) (though there were those that said it was not
the fast Black one).
It was shortly thereafter that we saddled up for the ride across the famous
Angeles Crest highway. It must be famous as the group saw enough CHPs
in quadra cycles and motorcycles to have provided all of us with our
own escort. We all got through the gendarmes
without incident.
We were fortunate to have Marty Rood in tow again. After such a long
absence, it was nice to see him two months in a row. He was gracious to
go over some high points regarding group riding guidelines. It had to
have done some good as we had no unexpected events to mar the days
activities. Though we did have, thanks to a guest of our host who will
go un-named, one bike take an unceremonious off road detour (but
was none the worse for it.) Sure had my heart
in my throat.
A ride along the crest is never complete without a stop at Newcombs
Ranch. Surprisingly enough, there weren't that many bikes for such a
nice day, and those that wee there were mostly Viragos from another
clubs group ride. After the R & R it was back on the bikes and on to
Gary & Sally's place for some vittles and
refreshments.
Gary & Sally were the perfect Host & Hostess, as they opened their doors
and their house to a bunch of "bikers". It should go without saying
that as a group, we come off as a real family, friendly, neighborly
bunch of folks that no one should feel
apprehensive about.
Everybody pretty much made themselves at home, and socialized while the vittles awaited
preparation. Your author, always thinking on his feet, had suggested that any left over
doughnuts from the morning assembly, be brought to the hosts' so that we could
avoid someone feinting from hunger pangs while waiting
for the goodies.
It really wasn't that long before the aroma of fresh baked PIZZA was on the scene and along
with an excellent salad Sally made, we all proceeded to Pig Out.....There were beverages
aplenty, and it became a matter of just finding the most comfortable place to
rest your person.
The Co-Hosts for the local ride in July, Katie and Dutch, were there with plans to
ride to
Big Bear Lake in conjunction with the "Miners Days". Not
every one is able to
make the trip to Zanesville, but that's no reason not to go,
Not
As Far As Zanesville - And Much, Much Higher.
The rest of the afternoon was pleasant and most did not want the good feelings to end.
Departures for Home were strung out with everyone declaring their desire to
"Do it again".
The day was made for the memory books, and to file with all the other great day rides that we experience when gathering with all the fellow
VRCC members.
Yours truly along with quite a few of the 'old guard' will be in Zanesville next month.
Don't let that keep you folks from getting together out here and riding with the Gang.
Hope to see you all on the road in the not to distant future.
Take care and Ride Safe..............Crash