sadsacnews2014: TRAMPS: Boolarra - Dumbalk 23 November

Our Chief Statistician managed to calculate using his simulated HP15 application, on his new smart phone, that we had 19 riders at Boolarra. It was good to see so many riders, as the day was ideal and the route in top shape.
The threat of showers was quite hollow and we spent the day in full sunshine, My face reminded me of that all night, despite the sunscreen. The actual route was the same as previous and started with the gentle climb up Limonite Road. Once over the ridge it was the major descent of the day to Mirboo. Yours truly was keen to test the velcro fastening of my pod mounted solar panel. With an indicated maximum of 64 kph it passed easily. Once out of town we paused to take in the countryside before pressing on to the lunch stop at Dumbalk. Despite missing out on the main shelter shed, we can not always have these places to ourselves, we managed to find a shady spot to enjoy our lunch with friends. We were also treated to a pictorial account of Leah's big adventure on the Alp d'Huez.
Once all the resting and refreshing was over it was back on the bikes for the second half. The run from the Tarwin River (East Branch) to the Mardan Road was always going to be the main test for the legs. Even with a break half way, the climb was a challenge. Once most had recovered at the peacocks it was off onto the undulations that are the Mardan Road. The final pinch into Mirboo North has not reduced in gradient over the years, in fact it appears to be the opposite. By the time the corner marshals had joined the main group in the park there appeared to be a complete lack of movement. Eventually the group stirred and we headed off for the final leg to Boolarra. Not far into the descent phase one of our group managed his second puncture for the day, the first being on the way to the start. It was not the best day for Richard. Once people had assisted with his repair back at the cars, it was off to the local coffee shop for a well earned coffee and fried food. I know that I am rather biased when it comes to this area, but this was a top day on the bikes.