Early Season Ride Report

The 2007 season began snowy and cold. After some really beautiful March weather, April came in making a fool of us all. Snowy and cold, most did not brave the elements to go to Rib Lake April 4. But there were two brave (crazy?) souls that hit the pavement that night. Ken Kraft and Ken Long set a blistering early season pace on the way to a seven mile ride. I'm sure they enjoyed a few warming beverages after that one. The next week was much the same. Ken Kraft ventured north to Phillips and coerced the Andersons out for the second ride of the season. Ken was definitely the early season favorite for the attendance award.

April 18th found us at the Bormann residence for a seasonal ride. We had a good turnout for what became the first of the small ring rides. Mindy was resplendent in her South Australia jersey, complete with kangaroos, and looking sharp on her new ride. We welcomed Nathan to the club. Katrina surprised many of us, who hadn't seen her since the end of season ride, with the news that another little Harris was soon to join the world. This definitely works in favor of all those who have struggled to stay with the Harris tandem in the past. An enjoyable ride was followed by a tasty repast Mexican style, echiladas followed by chewy brownies. Thank you, Bormanns!

April 25th, back to Rib Lake. Another nice evening, another good turnout. A few more of the Phillips people turned out for this one. A small chain-ring sprint to the city limits was energetically pursued by a few riders. Refreshments were enjoyed at the Frosted Mug, although one pizza at a time was a bit slow.

May 2, Phillips, the Zumachs, good weather, good ride, good food! That's what we have come to expect, and we were not disappointed. Nineteen riders gathered for the event. Pictures were taken! Action shots too! John and Kyle debuted their new rides tonight. Cervelo is the popular bike this season. Sweet! Following a nice ride out W and around on Carpenter Creek road, our stomachs were rewarded by Julie's cooking. Mexican again, Todd declared they were "real chicken enchiladas". They were "real" good. Followed by Julie's famous shortcakes and berries, we were sated. This was definitely not frozen pizza.

May 9, Ken Kraft invited us to Raab's Extra Inning in Ogema. Another great turnout on a wonderful evening, 19 riders enjoyed a fantastic route out of Ogema. Lukas joined us once again, riding borrowed equipment. We welcomed Chris from Park Falls, who came down with Jeff. Also joining us for the first time was Paula, who gave up the knobby tires and the inline skates to ride with roadies. We headed west on county I. Smooth roads, beautiful scenery along the Jump River, had many exclaiming excitement. Todd was heard to say, "In 20 years, I've never been on these roads." Pizza, and plenty of it, welcomed us back at Raab's. Good time had by all.