The third anniversary ride of the Victoria Peloton began at Fol Epi - half an hour earlier than usual to allow time to freshen up after the ride and before heading to Swan's for a pub lunch. It was a chilly morning and the early start only made it feel that much cooler than expected for the time of year. David B., unlike John, started out in long pants - he was only following orders! David, that is. The world normalized at Hatley Castle where David showed off his shorts for the ride home.

Assembly Point at Fol Epi

Wardrobe Change

Who's the bird?

What guides our conversation over coffee.

It was another aggregate ride , 10 starting at Fol Epi, with James joining us Switch Bridge and Jack at 6 Mile bringing our total to 12. There was nothing exceptional to report along the way, except for some walking groups being a tad reluctant to make way for cyclists.

Although it was a cool day, sitting outside in the sunny, sheltered setting at Hatley Castle over coffee, tea, water or diet coke was a welcome omen of the months to come. Topics of conversation included hearing loss as we age, and how ageing men in a coffee shop can be quite disruptive to others as they have to either raise their voices by several decibels to be heard, as well as repeat their thoughts several times till everyone has heard the pearls of wisdom! The forthcoming US Presidential election was considered for a moment, Jim figured, despite her experience as Secretary of State, Hillary was at a severe disadvantage since she could not see Russia from her kitchen window. David A.'s summary said it all - the Republicans who are either so far to the right, or off the edge. Jim was at his "punning" best - there were too many for this poor blogger to remember! Except that an upcoming strata debate on barbecues would go up in smoke! The return ride was a little less cohesive as individuals peeled off, heading home for a shower and ample deodorant.

Swans Pub

Saying grace

Chowing down

Everyone was in good form

Checking the fine print of the dessert voucher

Just desserts????

How many kilometres to burn this off?

A moment of quiet contemplation

My lips are sealed, except for Jack.

Zero calories?

The Peloton Clubhouse

The Peloton re-assembled at Swan's for a late lunch. It was evident that the gentlemen had paid attention to their wardrobe - not a snippet of lycra was to be seen anywhere. It was good to see Rusty had recovered sufficiently from eye surgery allowing him to join us for lunch, if not the ride. Conversation over lunch got off to a rocky start - sitting under a portrait of PET led to a discussion of the merits [or otherwise] of the NEP Fortunately, the food was soon served affording a distraction, with the Peloton wondering why David B. was served first. It couldn't be because he is the most senior? John shared with us that bars in Seattle were accepting C$ at par this last weekend - he had been at a bonspiel - of course Jim had lots more puns related to "rocks" and "stones".

Despite the main course being substantial, many still had room for a large dessert to follow - thanks to Jim photocopying vouchers for free dessert. To save paper, Jim made the print size very small causing Norm T. some challenges.

Many thanks to Jim for organizing the lunch and bringing free lunch vouchers- we will forgive him his many puns, but just for today!