PADPAL Ride 18th Jan 2024

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 I was the last to arrive at Berowra and found the bikes were clustered together. This only allowed me to park near the driveway. Upon approaching the group, I was promptly told that I had parked in the leader’s spot so I was the leader. Bugga, won’t do that again. I had previously thought that if this were to happen, I should have a destination in mind that I knew well. So proceeded to detail said route when I was interrupted by, “No, we already have a destination”.  

Time for the ride briefing, Paul M started to explain the route until he was reminded that he is not leading today. My turn, Morning tea at Dooralong, no need for corner marking. Final destination Millfield. Waze was checked, speed camera at Cowan. This seems to be a regular occurrence of late probably encouraged by the local MP trying to please the locals.

 

10 off us headed off at what I thought was a good pace until, not far from Calga, a motorcyclist going the other way was either having a great day or was signalling police ahead as he was waving his finger is the air in a circular motion. Still enjoying the novelty of having all my points back I made sure the ridiculous 60klm speed was maintained. As it turned out he was having a great day, no cops or cameras to be seen.

Regrouped at Calga and again at the top of bumble hill. A steady pace down the hill and through Yarramalong to Hue Hue Road. I did mention corner marking not required but as Paul M was behind me for most of the way I couldn’t resist and signalled him. Desired effect achieved, he had a good grumble when we stopped, noticing my little smile he cottoned on as did the others present. A blatant abuse of the corner marking rules to which I am ashamed and promise to not do again even if Paul is behind me when/if I am the ride leader again.

 

4 riders decided not to go on.

 

I was pleasantly surprised to be complimented with my leading duties so far and that no one got lost. I’m afraid that went to my head. After lunch, once I ensure the troops were ready to go, and keen to continue the perfect job I was doing shot off down Jilliby Road only to realise a Klm or so that was the wrong way. No worries they will all be waiting for me when I turn around. Nope! Is this the first time the group left without the leader?

 

Heading down Mandalong Road I was able to catch up due to road works. Fell in behind the leading 3 with Andy at the front, traffic was heavy along Freemans drive especially over the hill from the waterhole on Leggett’s Drive. Paul became impatient and over took a number of vehicles so was now the leader. Along Sandy Creek Road we again hit roadworks and was held up. Paul turned his bike off but was delayed in starting it as it had to reboot the computer or something like that so I again became the leader the remainder of the way.

 

The day was hot and humid and despite the change of plans along the way I had a great time and appreciated the company as always.

 

Andrew

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