Report by Julian 

I had been battling a cold all week so decided to head out with the main group today.  I always like rides towards the coast, especially when the sun is out, so I figured it would be an enjoyable trip.  About 30 of us were sent off first and apart from a small split due to the lights on Mill Point Rd we held it together well early. 

The pace was fairly steady around Mounts Bay Rd and up towards Subi and we cruised down Hay St (Subiaco not Kalgoorlie!).  I went from front to back to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves in the brisk conditions and there were no complaints.  We stretched our legs on the Underwood Avenue hill and again on Oceanic Drive.  Once onto the highway I called for a roll through, which was not very successful.  The pace quickened and we dropped a few riders – hopefully they were picked up by Main Group 2.  Kimbo, Rob and Paul (and a few others who faces I know but not names) helped out with the leading down through Swanbourne, whilst I sat back and chatted to Carl and Gus. 

Along Marine Parade we went single file to avoid the wrath of car drivers.  A steady pace was maintained, allowing us to admire the surfing conditions and the odd young lady walking on the foreshore path.  Back into Swanbourne, the group was split by the West Coast Hwy lights but we were all back together by Claremont.  Kimbo and Rob were starting to dream of Balinese swimming pools and bars and Bob Marley tunes were melodically being hummed.  I castigated them for not being good clubmen, reminding them they should be fully focused on the ride. 

Through Dalkeith and the attacks and counter-attacks began.  We weren’t helped by road works on an intersection that already presents problems for cyclists (can’t recall the name) and we will need to be careful of this in future.  Approaching Gumnut Alley Kimbo turned the clock back to the mid 70’s California Rock scene with a few lines from America’s “A Horse with no  Name” (note – I thought “Sister Golden Hair” was a better song) and the pace was still low 40’s before we descended past Steve’s and around the Uni. 

Into Mounts Bay Rd and the group was on edge as we neared the brewery.  As everyone waited for a move to the made, John and a few others upped the pace and I somehow managed to time the sprint right and take the points without a hill in sight.  Apologies to everyone behind as I didn’t turn around to see who got the minor placing and unfortunately I couldn’t discuss it further at coffee as I had to head straight to netball. 

Thanks to all for a good ride.