As promised I am finally getting around to writing a ride report for a couple of Sundays ago. However, what with about 10 days passed I give no promises of truth or accuracy (as if there is ever any). But nonetheless here goes.

It was a time long ago--10 days--in a state park not so far far away......11 riders set out from the northern terminus of Las Virgenes Road riding the fireroad that borders Ahmanson Ranch. 3 riders left the group early on....we lost one to the planets and two to the rocks. Warner left early to climb up the Gas Pipe singletrack (which we later descended), apparently to get to higher ground so that he could be better seen by the mother ship. And BrianD took a bad spill going fast down a loose, rocky section of fireroad. He banged up his rib cage, but was able to turn around and ride/walk out, accompanied by GaryS who had to get back early anyway. (Brian is apparently doing okay with hopefully just bruised ribs....get well soon and return to the fold!)

Thus our group was now down to 8 men--Andy, Ali, DavidR, John, Jamshyd, Joe, Ken, and me. We pedaled up and down the long fireroad until we eventually arrived at the single track trail known as Marbles. Usually we do Marbles from the other direction and now I know why. Marbles has always been challenging but since the last 2 winters of rain, the trail has really been beat up. There were a lot of hike-a-bikes over gorges, rocky creek beds, and up steep, narrow sections. But when we rode, it was fun and challenging.

When we finally got to the other end of the Marbles Trail, everyone was pretty tired....but I was totally exhausted. My body was sore, tired and feeling all of my 90 years. Fortunately the group turned right and headed towards the little Shortcut Trail that brought us up to what I think is an extension of the Albertson Fireroad which we rode over to the area just above China Flats.

Around China Flats we rode, then down the Palo Comado Fireroad until we came to the trail that cuts over to Shepherds Flat. At Shepherds Flat we debated which way to go and it was finally decided that, against my better judgement, we head down the Gas Pipe/Taco Hill Trail. Although I usually love that trail, I was so fatigued that I was fearful I would use poor judgement on the technical trail and get myself into trouble. However, I dug up all the ancient wisdom and good judgement that I could muster (a drop or two) and forced myself to walk several sections that I usually ride....just to be safe. Anyway, we made it to the bottom of the trail safely, turned right on the Las Virgenes Fireroad and returned to our vehicles.

I think that a few of us went out for some food at the local cantina, but I don't remember much about it except waking up with my face in a plate of refried beans.