by Carol Zanussi
CYCLON 1999 ran like a well-oiled machine – organized to perfection by organizers and volunteers. This year – a second time around at Kingston for me – I also participated by giving up a day of riding and travelling around on the bike bus (or the "emergency services vehicle" as it is sometimes referred to.) It was a pleasant surprise to discover the wonderful camaraderie that develops among the volunteers and other club members. During various times over the weekend, we recognized each other, often exchang-ing knowing looks and remarks, "Hey, I know you – you’re that lady who was hanging out of the bike bus window!"
Amazing fun.
And then, of course, there was the bike riding. Each day had a plentitude of beautiful scenic rides to choose from – depending on ability or interest. I chose a ride to challenge my abilities (since I also knew I had the next day off to recover on the bus!). I do not consider myself a strong rider at the best of times – my normal riding distance ranges between 30 – 40 km. But for the first time I managed to do a 68 km ride and even had some energy left over. I was thrilled! The first 10 km were the hardest and I had to stop myself from nervously looking at my odometer every few seconds. But after that, I was fine.
After my success with this ride, I was deter-mined to tackle the 75 km ride on the last day. Unfortunately the dance had taken place the night before; after dancing the night away, my energy level was not the greatest. Still, I managed to have a very pleasant, (if short) leisurely ride and enjoyed all the gorgeous scenery along the way. It was a great weekend, jam-packed with many things to see and do, and wonderful people to hang out with. I am very much looking forward to CYCLON 2000 at its new location in Belleville. Thanks so much to everyone for doing such a great job and creating such a terrific event.