Four Quarter Century
Ride Report 3/18/01

It was the best of rides. It was the worst of rides. The Four-Quarter Century was a history making event. Leading four 25 mile rides in one weekend was a new record for Blueberry Rides. First we had to come up with the routes. Our old friend Terry was very helpful. He provided us with flawless directions for the Beaverton and Tualatin rides. Although the route had some climbing, everyone in the group was up for the challenge. Bec & Louie put together the route from Lents Park and the 92nd Street Park and ride.

Liz and Ben reported that there were some issues with the directions on the Lents Park Ride but the group put their heads together and managed to find their way, adding a few short miles. Bec & Louie could have helped but were way behind the group as they had two flat tires in the first five miles. After fussing with the flats, Bec, Louie and Claudine took a shortcut hoping to catch up. Everyone finally re-grouped for the second ride back at Lents Park where Louie & Claudine both had more flat tires to fix. Hence "The worst of rides."

The temperature was rising fast as we started to climb the hills outside of Beaverton. Everyone enjoyed the spectacles of spring, trees in bloom and daffodils along the roadside. Being able to ride without a jacket was great! At one point the temperature reached 64 degrees! "The best of rides."

The weather took a turn for the worst as we signed club members in for the last ride at 92nd and Sandy. It was raining, and it continued to rain for whole ride. As we rode along side the Columbia River in the driving rain, it was hard to believe that we were facing a drought. "The worst of rides."

Cycling can be tough. Making rides out of a crazy idea can be even tougher. But like any cyclist will tell you "The rides are always better in retrospect" and we agree. There's nothing like a hot shower and dry cotton clothes after doing 100 miles.