I got pulled after the first loop. Head bobbing. I just hate that head bobbing thing, cause the vet thinks it's critical, and I sometimes do not agree. But, no argument from me, geezzz, it's just great to go and rent a UHaul van (my truck was in the shop, and I heard more jokes about me and that damn rental van that had $19.95 a day painted on the side) for a few hundred bucks, pay gobs of money, spend 4 hours setting up camp and 9 hours tearing it down, for a 3 day weekend of pain, sweat, and horse poop. Thank God for the beer.
I mean, at least wait till the third or final loop to pull me. It's much more enjoyable then. Especially after the third one, cause I don't really want to go out on the last loop anyway. I'd rather have a beer and a subsequent nap after that third loop any day. Or, better yet, pull me at the finish completion check. Yea, that's the ticket. That's the only time it hasn't happened to me (yet), but I'm sure that one is coming.
Michelle Owens won the 50. Keep your eye on her. She seems to know what she's doing and she's a tough cookie. And the Thompsons where there, 3rd and 4th in the 50. I think Randi Levikoff got second. Throw in Debbi, Darlene, and Adelle from the 100 miler, and this ride, like most others, belonged to the women. Don't think the men did much here, I know I sure didn't, although Jerry Fruth actually rode a 25 miler and placed up front. His first LD. I think Jerry was testing out my theory that the LD is a race and has taken on another form entirely than was originally planned by AERC.
Anyway, I'm running out of room allowed for posts, so I'll say that Goethe is a ride to go to along with the 7 other Florida rides planned in the 2002 season. Goethe had over 125 riders this year; and that number doesn't get much higher down here in Florida. Our average ride has less than half that, which I hope one day changes because, as I'm sure ya'll know, without riders there is no ride, and it's a darn shame to lose just one. Check out your calendar for Jan and FEB. We really aren't that far away, and you can't beat this weather. And since I seem to be doing a lot more socializing than riding lately, if you seem my gator trailer, stop by for a beer. I bring plenty.
cya,
Howard (socializing ain't so bad; I just wish I could get the miles thrown in with it)