Here it is Dick, appreciate you doing a forward for me, Thanks.

The OCC Par 1R was enjoyed by nine bikers who pretty much stayed together to do forty miles each (with one exception).  The ride was mostly rated "A", but did get a couple of "B's" because Voorhees Road needs repair.

We stopped at the Salmon River Hatchery for a little while and I took a walk to the restroom.  When I returned to where the group had their bikes parked, everyone had disappeared.  I thought it must be "drop the old guy day" so I hopped on my bike and to avoid dropping off a high curb to the driveway, I just rode across the lawn to Rt 22 and figured I'd better ride fast to catchup, but it never happened.

About one half mile from the Grist Mill, I got a flat tire and started walking back as it was easier than changing a tube so I end up with 39.5 miles riding and 0.5 mile walking.

The Grist Mill Parking lot came into view and I looked back to see the group coming.  They went flying by and hollered "where the heck are you coming from".  They thought I had taken a shortcut somewhere and I couldn't figure how I almost beat the big dogs back without passing them and even walking a 0.5 mile.  I know old age and experience will always win over youth and skill, but this was ridiculous.

It turned out they took the driveway out of the Salmon River Hatchery where I went across the lawn about 200 feet from them and we never saw each other.  They waited around for awhile and I was riding hard thinking I could catch up with them.

It's best that you got this report from me because some of them would have probably twisted it all up!

Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book, just thought it was a funny adventure.

Dave Sheldon