Hi All,

Sheehan returned from one of his recurring business trips to Japan late on Friday so he was not able to do the Julian Retro Ride with us on Saturday. Dave got a few of us together to ride the classic Poway Grade/HVR Loop on another beauty day to be out on a bike.

Ernst and I met over at Sheehan’s house before we rolled over towards Poway HS to meet Dave Boyle. Sheehan pushed the pace along Espola as we headed for the Poway Grade. Just after we made the turn to begin our climb, we spotted Bernie flying down the grade, riding in a non-Descenders kit. He was also out getting in more road time after putting in a great effort in Julian, more on that ride in the next ride report.

Ernst and Boyle eventually pulled away from me and Sheehan on the climb but we regrouped at highway 67. Ernst led us along 67 to the top of the climb by Mount Woodson where Sheehan put the hammer down. The pace line towards Mussey was fast and we all took turns on point. I barely survived the pace and needed the break we took after the turn onto Mussey Grade. We decided not to do the descent and headed back to HVR.

Again, Ernst and Sheehan provided the pulls at the front while I hid as much as possible. We cut through Sky Valley to get to the top of HVR. Boyle led us out and I swept. Ernst and Sheehan were flying and quickly overtook Boyle, then disappeared from my sight. Boyle and I finished the final descent together and he pulled us back to regroup with the fast guys.

We rode to Pomerado and looped back toward Sheehan’s house. It was a 31 mile loop and a beautiful morning. Always a good time out riding with some of the Descenders.

Ride On-
Rob