Tuesday Canal Report

Andrew C sent me these images and the report, which I edited a little.  Above, Brian looks over the competition.

The unusually warm weather drew out those that had been hibernating through the winter.  There were at least 20 people with a bunch showing up at the last minute.  Young Nick Phenom made his inaugural appearance.  When told he looked a little taller, he replied that he thought that he gained muscle, thus adding weight.  We can only hope that this slows him down on the uphills as he
continues to separate the men from the boys.  Not only has Nick become faster, he has also become very good at staying upright while not moving, here demonstrating the trackstand.

Steve H. led out the C group, which included Eve H. and a couple of others.  Eve was preparing for Bob Waddell's 200km brevet coming up this Saturday.

Above, Corvair makes it on time, again!
Mark C and I decided the B group was the place to be with what appeared to be a mean looking A group shaping up.  We need to get a few more miles in before we attempt to keep up with them.  Amanda O., Gary V., and a few others joined us for a nice ride out of town up to Lithopolis.  The group stayed together for a while, working together to battle against the strong SW wind.  A number of the A group went the wrong way at one point and ended up within sight for a while when they got back on course.  They also splintered into at least two groups with the 2nd group coming within striking range.  That was all Mark C needed.  He saw his
bone and began pulling the B group faster toward his prey.  Eventually they were caught and swallowed up, while also splintering the B group.  This new group thankfully looked forward to turning with the wind and pushed the pace higher.  I struggled to hang on, but eventually recovered near the end of the ride.  Mark C. altered the route to take us to Canal through Lithopolis.  I played the
rabbit on the downhill, as I sometimes enjoy doing, leaving the finish to the sprinters.  It was a great ride in great weather!  19.3 for our group and I was tired at the end.  A happy tired!  Man, it's good to finally get some Spring weather!