Sunday 27th July

A lovely crisp morning for a ride. The following met at mine and we got under way by 9.30. The Goat, Bugs, Geez, Tinkerbell, Silverfox, Sandals, Helmut, and Te rex. We headed up Huntsbury via Aotea. Phatboy made contact and he was gonna meet us at the Top of mt Pleasant Rd cos he had some stuff happening. It was the usual grind up the hill, I was feeling quite good but paced myself so I did not ever have to stand round waiting. We got to the top and although a coolish breeze was blowing it was lovely and clear. We headed across the top of Mt Vernon and down towards Rapaki. Most of the track was ok but the mud was there and it made some of the rocks a bit slippery. Some people dabbed heaps while others did not. I waited for Sandals before going over Witch Hill and joining up with the others who were all in a rush to stand around waiting. We then ground around and up to Castle Rock. The first 50m were wet and slippery but the rest of the track was in ok nic. Loved the blast down here, cleaning it all and I loved watching Bugs have a real wobble in the last rocky section. Never seen that before. A regroup here and Phatboy met us at the shelter and handed out the PFMTBC 2008 Inc DVD. From here we cruised to John Brittan Reserve and then straight into Greenwood. No regroup. The track was wet and slippery. Riding was tough and slow. Lotsa of wheelspin, dabs and fighting for control. A regroup took place at the ruins where Sandals rode straight past us and led the way down. We all gave chase, with a few passing others and just running all the way to the bottom. Cool and long. Captain Thomas was taken cos of time. This was wet but rideable. Caution was taken by most. I had a moment on the slope amongst the steps. Most rode straight on home while Sandals, Helmut, Phatboy had coffee with J9 and Grace before riding home. Nice day for a ride. I even got a ride in with J9 and Grace on the cruisers in the afternoon.