Sunny skies, light winds, and moderate temps motivated a large group of about 23 OVCer’s to hit the roads for another Saturday cycling adventure. Riders from Salisbury, Pocomoke, Lewes, Laurel, Tyaskin, Delmar, Millsboro, Princess Anne, and Whaleyville converged in Fruitland for 60 miles of steady endurance riding.
Mother Nature fully cooperated, giving the group a manageable headwind or a favorable tailwind for the entire out-and-back ride. A few disturbingly large flies tried to carry us away in the marshes outside of Rumbly, but other than that it was smooth sailing.
In the final 5 miles, Caleb took a flyer on Allen Road and was dangling out front for a few minutes. The Morris Tandem decided this aggression must be put to an end and initiated a 30 mph chase, pulling about 5-6 other riders with them. Just as the capture was made, speeds decreased slightly. Roscoe, Mario, and Trey launched a counter-attack and found themselves with a gap at 1.5 miles to go. Mario and Trey were gassed by the 28 mph pace, but managed a turn at the front, before Roscoe went solo for the final mile of Allen, aka “The Tunnel of Love”. Roscoe held on, with Trey not far behind, and Russ surging forward for the bronze. The 62 mile course was finished in about 3 hr 8 min for an average speed of 19.7 mph -- just as advertised.
For the post-ride, nearly everyone gathered poolside in the Bozick’s backyard to enjoy cool beverages and all kinds of delicious victuals thoughtfully prepared by a number of club members. Thanks to everyone who made this ride a success and thanks to the Bozicks for hosting Ocean Velo!