The Wednesday Night Ride

by P.J. McCarthy

You just have to love the Wednesday Night Ride. No pretentious airs for this Wednesday Gang. They have relegated cycling to its proper place in life's grand scheme. These unabashedly social riders celebrate midweek by recharging their "bods" for the downhill side of the week. Aptly described as the energized coast towards T.G.I.F., Wednesday nite marks the tune-up for the coming weekend's "Wheeling and Mealing."

"Wednesday Socials" are a comfortable ride somewhere between Leisure Wheelers (soft challenge) and Sportif (hard challenge). "Nighters" are enthusiastic riders willing to work up a real good sweat without feeling that they are preparing for the Tour de France. And the recuperation process for most "Wednesday Nighters" involves a fully loaded pizza and a pint of beer.

The group taking a break at the Humber Bay Bridge

"Wednesday Nighters" are noted for their upright posture and smiling cheeks. They take the time to sweep the passing landscape for all the joys offered by Toronto's sights and sounds. This gang could hardly be characterized as a flight of darting starlings - more like the effortless swoop of a gaggle of pelicans in random search of their next meal. Who doesn't like pelicans?

With so many different venues to choose from, it is hardly any wonder that Wednesday evening rides have become so popular. Led by Ron Fletcher, TBN's Wednesday Night Ride offers a veritable smorgasbord of Toronto's neighbourhood trails.

So, for those whose cycling needs lean toward the enjoyment of sunlight, fresh air and a good solid workout that won't put dents in your "bod", "Wednesday Nighters" is the gang to join. Check the website for starting location and ride details, and don't forget those helmets and lights!