Ken T., Ken W. and yours truly met at Michell’s Farm on a perfect fall day for a ride around Victoria International Airport [YYJ] - the sun was shining brightly, although there was a slight breeze from the north which warranted the extra layer of clothing we had all opted for. It was too bad that there were only the three of us to enjoy the experience.

We took turns in leading allowing the others to draft thus avoiding the cool northerly breeze. Given the ideal riding conditions, we met few other riders as we headed north to Tulista Park, then heading across the Pat Bay Highway to join the trail around the airport. It was decided to defer the coffee stop to later rather than stopping at Melinda’s Coffee. At the top of Hospital Hill where work is under way for the new memorial to honour WW II airmen.

Drawing of the proposed memorial at Hospital Hill

After a lengthy stop, we enjoyed the ride down the north side of the airport towards Pat Bay. While heading along the south side of the airport there was some discussion on where we should enjoy a coffee break. After dithering for several minutes, it was decided to head to The Roost for coffee where we enjoyed our coffee on the deck basking in the sunshine. Much of the conversation was consumed with comparing notes on how car repair facilities have changed over time - today, it is hard to find anyone with dirty hands in a repair facility, rather they look ready to enter an operating theatre.

There was also interest in how to obtain BC Ferries alerts e.g. when the ferry is running late or cancelled, when the parking lots at ferry terminals are full etc. The way to do this to set up an account on the BC Ferries web site where you can select what notifications you want to receive.

After coffee, it was time to head back to Michell’s Farm. It was an uneventful, but speedy ride.

Be sure to check out what the Old Cranks have been up to by clicking here.

In cycling news this week - if you have friends who doubt the need to wear a helmet, then send them this link

and how to pack your bike when being transported - how a bicycle company reduced the number of bikes damaged en route to their customers

And to finish on a very positive note, I have included some photos taken at the James Jefferys’ lunch at Swan’s last Friday.