brief report by Julian

We had a 100% increase in turn out from the first ride with Emma, Jess and Sean joining Carol, Tracy and Libby who had returned from last week.  Once again we bade the other groups farewell, did the introductions then headed out to Shelley Bridge, via Coode St, Mt Pleasant and Rossmoyne foreshore.  The new riders had ridden in the main group at various times in past few months and were keen to be involved again in group rides. 

The pace was up from the start with Carol on her new Pinnarello particularly enjoying it.  The group was very relaxed and comfortable and were surprised to hear they were going a couple of km/hr quicker than last week.  The force of the pack pushed everyone along and again there was much excitement when the big packs passed us along the foreshore.

We turned for home and started rolling after the Rossmoyne roundabout and held it together well for a couple of km, with everyone getting the hang of it.  A bit more practice is needed on holding wheels and not cutting in too soon and these can be worked on no problem.  The fork in the bike path at Canning Bridge was successfully negotiated this week and we even managed to pass a couple of riders on the bike bath on the way back up the river.  Towards the narrows the pace picked up, another sign of the growing confidence in the group.   

Arriving at the coffee shop at 8.31 am, everyone was pleased about not having to queue for coffee.  It also meant I could sneak in an extra few km before heading up to Belmont for netball.  Next week there might have to be a few extra km included in the ride.  In keeping with the exponential rise in numbers, I expect to see 12 people in the group next week, with Peter pencilled in the lead them off.