17th
Day 10 Big day in Toronto
Well today we were up at the crack of stupid to get ready for the big ride from Barrie to Toronto. Many past SNKCR riders showed up in the morning for the ride along with the 2011 riders. It was nice to see family and some familiar faces from home. The ride started with a fast pace and it became clear that some of the cyclists were going to have a tough day ahead. Some of the 2011 crew even striped off their volunteer shirts and got into their gear for the ride - and i must say - they looked better in their volunteer shirts, not to mention any names ( cause that would be wrong), but Linda Kay, you are one lucky women. Seriuosly Jim, we miss you already (opps sorry).
Toaday we are also loosing Linda H, Erin Burger - ah quiet, cool and willing to do whatever was necessary to make the riders life that much better, Tim and Doug the hardest working dynamic duo / RV drivers on the planet - thanks for cleaning my underwear boys, and finally my new freind Jim Kay - Jimmy i really dif not know you before this trip - but you are one hell of a guy, your calm, caring demeanour, your ability to calm people and get things done was remarkable and much appreciated - thanks buddy you will be missed.
The ride into downtown Toronto was impressive - police motorcade from Sherway gardens right to Dundas square - very impressive. The crowds were large, the cheering loud, and the atmosphere electric. We met the inside ride crew here and we were even able to jump on a stationary bike and go for a spin - just what the riders needed. Since i am such a nice guy I volunteered my legs to spin and give the riders a break - it was fun. In the evening we heafed down to the water front for a Bbq and the lighting of the CN tower. Terri, Katherine, Bob and myself took an opportunity to step away and get some Thai food away from the craziness - it was very nice and great food.
JM # 2
Josh rides the tandem bike with Mark Burger, at one point Josh got off the bike and Mark rode alone for a few km into the next rest stop. To help Mark on the hills, Greg, the mechanic, jumped on with Mark and rode in. When they got off the bike Josh approached Greg and offered him his glasses - he then said ” Greg, you will need to wear these because Mark farts alot and these wil prevent stink eye”. OMG - funny fuuny kid.
Later MG.
