Locals Night at Ebenezers

Tour of Sweden, June 20, 2007

The directors of the WMWT were called into executive session today at 5:00pm to discuss the important question ,”Can a ride count toward a patch if it does not end at a bar?” The question came to the table because it was heard that a couple of renegade riders did a tour and finished before the bar in question was open. One director suggested that because the board meeting was hastily called and we were meeting at Ebenezer's, that the decision might be biased. Another round was bought and the question was forgotten. The final decision was that because that rule was not written into the articles of incorporation that we would have to give the renegades credit, but someone at the end of the table was heard to say, “But why would they?”

Nine riders met at Ebenezer's today at 1:00 (two at 1:15) and started the tour of Sweden. Mapped by Judy, the route, which was 80% dirt roads, was a diversion from the fast-paced road trips to date. The first leg was to conquer the hills to the Sweden town office. Sunday recon paid off because there were no signs and no people at the newly constructed building. After being reassured by the recon team that we were in fact at the town office we made our way back down and up the previously summited hills to get to the dirt road cross over. Most of the roads were hard packed and smooth although there was one rough and soft section which was walked by most. Most riders stayed on the designated route, while Ann couldn’t help herself, exploring every skidder trail as well as the Gorge. She reminded me of Bailey, our dog. Despite all the meandering she was still the first to the rest stops.

When arriving at the sign, we were pleased to find that the renegades had done the trip this morning and already signed in. After the sign the group broke up. Five riders decided to go back to E. by the paved route 5, while the rest went back along the same dirt route. Judy gave Ann, Barb and me permission to blast back so that we would not be late for our reservations. Fool as I am, I thought I could keep up with them.

We all congregated back at E. within 30 min. of each other and enjoyed some fine beer and locals specials. Judy and I sampled Belgian draughts, all on sale for $5. Rogue Dead Guy, a brown ale from Oregon, was a popular choice, and Ann sipped Domaine Dupont, a 2005 French apple cider.
There was considerable discussion about the next tour, probably Denmark next week. Also the group is still trying to map out a reasonable approach to the China problem.
More to follow.

Russ