Monday, November 25, 2013

The Firing Squad



It was a balmy 48F when we assembled in the Knott Lot Saturday morning. Though all the Penn alumni had predicted much cooler temps, we were met with sunshine and smiles as we struggled with layers. There would be no question for Safety, surprising us with a visit, and donning his trademark jacket and shoe covers. Yours truly rolled up (on time) to find Rock God in full embro mode.   Our ride organizer and leader, THTH, was joined by P.C. and none other than Orphan. Once we made pleasantries, and received our blessed communion of Mojo and (insert beverage of choice), it was off to the wild.

NoHandle led his minions NE to the qualifier, and then down the now debris-strewn chopping block. Seems the recent high wind advisory left an extra layer or two of twigs, needles and leaves over the damp but firm earth. Our leader both quizzed us on trail names and solicited ideas for future trail work. I wonder if anyone can get us a pro deal on some McClouds. From the block, we veered E and up the newly named Wall back to PC. After some layering changes, we were then directed to Grimangers, and the ridge(name?), eventually making a few last minute tweaks to bring us right round to PC. From the 4 way junction, we headed SE towards MET, with yet more climbing on fire roads. Our destination was Cappy's Cache, and it would not disappoint.

As we whooped and hollered, roosting leaves on every corner, the distinct sound of cannon fire could be heard in the distance. RG predicted, and we quickly discovered, that this cacophony of sounds was not only getting closer, but well within our current path. As we climbed out of the Cache, the rifle report grew louder, and we would soon smell the powder. Just before the beginning of the Bonetti paved road, we dropped into a veritable shooting gallery. Almost a dozen ticket holders stood aiming at targets directly ACROSS the fire road. Like ducks moving across the carnival board, one by one we rolled past the firing squad. They kindly holstered their weapons and allowed us to pass. There was nervous laughter as the lead carny jokingly(?) assured us "don't worry, we're not shooting cyclists, today". Once safely past that maelstrom, we rounded another bend to find a smaller assembly of marksmen. Our group then discussed the irony found in breaking the perfectly tranquil and silent fall morning with gunfire.

As the gallery, and the ringing in our ears, began to fade in the distance, we set our sights on a left lip drop. En route, P.C. performed a splendid log balancing act. This was shortly followed up by this rider's complete stacking over the same obstacle. The folds in the lip enveloped our tires, and I for one would like to have savored it thrice. We then wrapped things up with a CW loop back to the cars.
In all, a nice 3 + hour tour of the greater pollywood complex. I believe Msr. Credite captured a few pics, and can now upload for those who, well, wished they were there but couldn't make it.

Consider this your weekend weather/ride report, and Tuesday's callout. It will be just another perfect evening in the forest....sans gunplay, of course.

One!






























19 comments:

  1. Thanks for the instant replay, c-man. The only thing missing was mention of the distinctly nostalgic mood in the air, as throughout the morning landmarks served to conjure memories and tales of FT3s bygone. Like the time the group remained only three-tenths of a mile from their destination for quite some time as darkness approached on a light-less evening ride. Maybe it was the guest appearance of an early FT3er that brought out the ghosts of christmas past. Or maybe it was that slant of fall sunlight through branches mixed with the sweet scent of decay that made for the sentimentality. Whatever it was, I soaked it right up. As a new ride member, I now feel a tad more steeped in the lore.

    As for Tuesday, I hate to miss it but have holiday guests descending just then. If anyone wants to squeeze in a Placerville ride (road, cross, hobo?) Tuesday morning / afternoon, let me know.

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    1. Nice avatar. Doesn't it feel better to just embrace your handle?

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    2. I like the new chicken wing photo you uploaded. Great RR Counselman!

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    3. Indeed, NH did wax on about the days of yore. And there have been many over these 5 odd years. A blessed holiday to you and yours.

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  2. Photos added to the bottom of the post. Note: RG busted his spoke after the chopping block descent, powering up the hill back towards park Creek! He wrapped it around another spoke and successfully finished the ride.

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  3. FYI, my gps says 23.4 miles, 3,869 ft elevation gain. Great ride!

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  4. Great ride report CMan and additions D-. You should write more for the blog. Yes, I really enjoyed the general enthusiasm for the day and weather, made my weekend.
    Thanks for the surprise visit and extra photo postage Safety.
    Two!

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    1. You're welcome no handle. I'm glad to have ridden with you guys again. The daylight ride really helps with the photos. Again, Thanks for the call out nohandle. The ride was so much fun!

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  5. Three! After seeing my big gut in the pictures, it's a no Beer, no It's It post ride meal.

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  6. I just enjoyed a late read of the 24 comments that embellished Spawn's no-credit ride report. I particularly enjoyed the personal disclosure by Partial Credit, who left a revolving door wide open for FT3 interpretation and ponder. And ponder we shall. However, we must 'let the handle find him.' For the time being, he has been found to be Partial Credit and PC for short, even though he is tall and receiving full credit on his taco attendance and possibly extra credit on his creative ride reporting.

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  8. back channel from B "looking good"
    What shall we read into that?

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  9. B further claims he is "in the right county" so that is a good sign.

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  10. Does anyone have an extra Niterider Minute long extension cable and helmet mount? I would like to try running my Minute on my head.

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  11. Bambi is in!! If B makes it we will be at SEVEN and damn if ain't goin' to be a friggin reunion.

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