That would be the Flight Of The Pigs 2009. The 14th annual, my first, and the best ride I’ve done all year.
Here is the formula. Take Jim and Kim, who just know how to do it up as far as mountain bike rides in PHX go, add old and new friends, the Gnome, warm weather, perfect functioning bicycles, the AZ National trail, Zoe’s, Hoss’ custom silver pins, and beer……and my friends, you have a winner.
But it starts before that…
Did you ever wonder who is the fastest person in a Dharma Wheels jersey? I didn’t think so, but the fact is that Pro rider and AZ state champ Lance Runyan (both MTN and Road) is at the top.
the fact is also that Lance is also super fun to ride with even when you are slow and out of shape like me.
So, we regrouped (this time with Freedom Board Shop riders Branden and Terry) along with many eastern PHX riders at the stroke of 7 for the FOTP’s. The AZ National trail was awesome. Hard, full of difficult spots, but full of trailside wagers and good old fashion competitions – both among riders, and personal competitions just to make it up certain climbs. In the end, whether you made it up the rock face without dabbing, or beat out your buddy, there were smiles and laughter. The trail mellowed, the riders regrouped, and I took a photo with the Gnome.
After completing the National Trail, we rode through Phoenix and had lunch at Zoe’s.
Then to the north of town, for more trail riding, a beer and bacon stop at Hunt’s tomb, and the BBQ at the Wilcox home.
A+. Super fun people, great trails, excellent food, a truly great, epic, all day experience. Oink!
