Assabet Loop - February 21, 2018

RIDE REPORT


Wednesday, 21 February 2018, Assabet Loop
Ride Leader: Glenn Pransky
32 miles, 10:00 am start from Haskell Field parking lot, Sudbury MA

Riders (21): Glenn, Alan Fierce, Dan Krechmer, David Fay, David Wean, Dmitry Gorenburg, Duncan Warden, Gardner Gray, Gene Ho, George Stromberg, Gerry Sheetoo, Joe Tavilla, Kaz Zelny, Mike Byrne, Patrick Ward, Richard Vignoni, Rick Lawrence, Ron Beland, Susan Sabin, and first-timers David Kaiser and Moshe Werba,

We started with gray skies and damp roads, but unusual weather with temps in the mid 50s that rapidly warmed to the mid 60s by the end of the ride, bright sunshine, and a strong south-westerly wind that gusted to over 20 knots at times.  The first stop was at the Wayside Inn, then around Lake Boone and on to the first de-watering stop at the Stow Library.  We then had a chance to preview the northern end of the Assabet Valley Rail Trail in South Acton, which should be open for use by the summer.

The group tended to spread out, with fast riders at the front eager to work off some excess lipids from staying inside all winter, and those who have been training in the elements.  An impressive group was at the rear, maintaining a reasonable pace despite some having had very few road miles since the fall.  Arrowing was generously provided by several riders, so no one was lost.

Special thanks to David Wean who served as sweep.  We averaged about 13.5 MPH, but most everyone seemed to be happy at their own pace.

After returning to Haskell Field, ten riders continued to Glenn’s house for a take-out lunch.   Thanks to Terry (Glenn’s wife) who served everyone home-made gluten-free treats.