My Brother Pete and I have been riding together for a long time. We both raced our first races together (the Sea Otter Classic in 1994), we have participated in countless triathlons, half marathons, and occasional holidays. Our kids are best friends.
It was a great break to be able to ride mountain with Pete. With Covid in full swing, we have both been working hard to stay distanced. We figured we could be responsible enough to stay clear of folks (and each other) if we drive separate cars and ride somewhere that the trails aren’t too crowded. Rancho Canada Del Oro was the perfect spot!
The climb was easy and fun. Steep spots, beautiful fields, and hills that are turning from green to gold with the advancement of Spring. The first hilltop and subsequent downhill went quickly and was lots of fun.
The second climb took a bit longer, we aren’t the youngest of riders, but we got to the top just in time to catch up to a gaggle of elderly hikers who were not being very careful about social distancing at all. We steered very clear of them and spent very little time at the top of the hill (much to our disappointment).
The ride along the ridge and back down the hill was quick and fast. Tight turns, fun little jumps and riders, and off-camber turns played with our confidence all the way down. It was a safe ride and the creek crossing at the end felt great in the heat of the sunny day.
Pete is a joy to ride with. We have a lot of fun when we hang out – gotta do this again! It’s too bad we couldn’t have a cold pint after the ride – we still had to drive home. Maybe next time…
