First Practice of 2012

I've only been able to ride 3 times since the new year, but I was able to make today's practice. Although I arrived late and jumped in with B team from the 3rd lap of 12, the legs felt rather good as I was able to keep pace and take my turn out front. Today's weather made it even easier to ride as it was warm and sunny compared to last weeks bitter cold. After practice was over and a little coffee break at the vending machine a few of us headed to Swan!.. But not after doing a little climbing :( My condition isn't as bad as I thought, but I gotta shed some kgs!

B Team!

A Team!

Streets of Tomo!

Team Ken's Annual Visit to Ōyamazumi Shrine

friends along the way!

This is the first year that I didn't go to the usual meeting place (Sunami Ferry in Mihara) by bike and I'm so glad I didn't because it was way too cold this morning! Pei-san and myself, with Wakadana behind us, arrived early with time to spare.

All aboard!

About 30 members gathered for today's ride from Setoda Port on Ikuchijima to Ōyamazumi Shrine on Omishima. But before the hilly route began we met at the Tatara Service Center to regroup for a picture and some food!

say cheese!

Next stop: Ōyamazumi Shrine!
As the rest of the group took off ahead, a few of us followed behind and enjoyed the scenery at leisure pace. After a delicious lunch, we headed to the shrine to pray and buy various lucky charms for health, success, safety and others. Most of us bought helmet lucky charms for safe cycling!

Ramen w/ clams and Taimeshi

Nice pants Miki-san!

 On the way back many of us stopped by various shops to eat roast chicken and korokke. Others bought mikan and senbei, too! Overall it was a great ride with the team! Can't wait to do it again!

Live & Ride!

first ride of the year

Happy New Year! Or, "Eh Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!" in Hawaiian. It's been almost a month out of the saddle due to a busy, but fun and memorable holiday season. From Christmas to the beginning of the new year there's been a little too much eating and drinking and too little exercise. But it feels good to get back into the normal routine again after such a long break. Today Pei-san, N-san and I woke up early to head to Tomo. Super cold, super fast and super hilly are the words to describe today's ride. However, the discovery of a new bakery and a new route made it all worth while!