And now, for The rest of the Story - June 27th - re. the 11 of us who chose
not to join "the race" and took the alternate leisurely route to Victoria.
It all began by a change of pace in the quaint town of Ganges. We found
time to mingle with the local artisans, sample ice cream and lattes, and
joined in the art of people watching.
On a previous day when Alf followed us onto the Mazda lot in Oak Harbor to
see if we were okay, he insisted that this was NOT a shopping tour.
However, in Ganges we proved otherwise when we hit the Artists Co-op and
added a great deal to the local economy. Funny thing, we did the same
thing on our one day off in Victoria!!!
More ice cream was to be had just prior to catching the 2:05 ferry to
Sidney where, again, the group felt the need to shop at a local bike store.
Jerseys, maps and route information was gratefully acquired. Jim, at the
head of the pack with map in hand, led us through the scenic coastal route,
biking only two miles on Highway 17. The group amazingly stayed together
in spite of Jim's flat, newly matted road, and a short, unpaved bike trail.
We enjoyed scenic Cordova Bay, Mt. Douglas Park, biked through an
exclusive wooded neighborhood, along Arbutus Cove, Queeswood Drive and down
to Cadboro Bay. At this point, we finally succumbed to Alf's pleas for
water and food. As one might guess, Jim and Pat gladly found an inviting
spot, al fresco style. (see Al's photo op) As you can see, they took us by
complete surprise, jumping out of the car, acting like papparazzi. We
definitely apprciated Al and Tom's concern for our pack of 11 and after
accepting cookies, we sent them after the rest.
While the three of us supped, the remaining pack headed for the barn.
After refreshing our bodies and spirits, we continued on passing the Royal
Victoria Yacht Club, Cattle Point, and Oak Bay. Alf then wanted to show us
the Victoria/Oak Bay Golf Club with its gorgeous gardens. Naturally, we
found it necessary to strike up a conversation with the well-dressed and
even talked them into a photo with us to show the contrast in dress and
style.
On then to McNeil Bay, Gonzales Bay, Ross Bay, Beacon Hill Park and into
downtown where we were piped in by a marvelous bagpipe on the corner. Our
reception from the folks at the Selkirk House with iced beer and snacks
was definitely worth the 102 miles. Yes, Pat finally got in her century
ride.
Courtesy Pat Harrington