RIDE REPORT
Wednesday, 31 May 2023, Merrimack River ride
Ride Leader: Joanne Samuels
~32 miles, 10:00 am start from Newburyport, MA
Bikers (15): Joanne, Allison Easton, Butch Pemstein, Christine Talbot, Craig Tulig, Dale Ferguson, Don Mannes, Frank Aronson, Gary Anderson, Gary Williams, Gerry Sheetoo, Marie Keutmann, Sue Amsel, Susan Sabin, and Zach Woods.
Fifteen WWs set out from the Newburyport Park & Ride lot, following a ridewithGPS route which was created by members of North Shore Cyclists. The route took us along both banks of the Merrimack River and through West Newbury, Groveland, Haverhill, Amesbury, and, finally, back to Newburyport. Helen had mentioned that this was a route that had been offered years ago (before ridewithGPS) and was led by Bob Sawyer on several occasions.
The day was beautifully warm with a wonderful breeze. Late spring flowers, shrubs, and trees were at their peak, showing off some incredible blooms and adding wonderful fragrances. The roads were in very good condition with generous shoulders for riding. We stopped at Park Lunch in Newburyport for some food and congeniality.
A couple of mishaps included a pair of forgotten shoes and three flats (two of which were on the same bike). Eventually everyone caught up with five miles to go, so we were all able to eat together.
I want to thank all who helped me lead this ride - including arrows, the sweep, and those with ridewithGPS expertise. I'd also like to encourage others to lead by using ridewithGPS. It was relatively easy and, as in the case of this ride, can uncover some beautiful biking routes.
Report by Joanne Samuels.
No comments:
Post a Comment