Truly a memorable time; what with 13000 other riders, all riding for a good cause.
The ride consisted of 3 different categories; the 25km, 50km, and 75km. I took part in the 50km, with Gabe and Amelia.
The weather on that day could not have been better. A lovely cool and cloudy 18C with mild breeze.
The Gardiner expressway and Don Valley Parkway highways were both closed to any kinds of traffic except us riders and officials!
We started the morning by driving downtown to the main parking area and then unpacking our bikes, and meeting the rest of the Bank of Montreal team for a lovely all-you-can-eat breakfast, consisting of sausages, croissants, eggs, drinks, fruits.
Because it was not a race, we took our own sweet time eating and finally began our ride at about 8.30am.
The highway was a good mix of small short climbs and smooth downhills. We stopped at various places just to take some photos. Don Valley is known to be quite scenic. The riders' starting times began from 6am till 9am, which made everything less rushed and crazy. Imagine if 13000 riders started at the same time!
Well, not much need be said about the ride itself, and quite honestly, I know now why I mountain bike and not road ride. I cannot imagine myself riding on the road for hours. It can get quite monotonous actually. Nothing like the ups and downs of good mountain biking.So yes... I guess MTBRogue will remain a mountain biker. And the occasional road rider for charity.
