RR: Blackstar to Beeks Slow Ride

[richie_rich]

Well, the weather was a little bit on the iffy side, but 7 of us made it through the gates at Blackstar and 7 of us made it back...pretty good for a group ride

So, the bottom of the canyon was overcast, but not too bad. Kristine, Brenda, Beth, Eric, Grant, Frank and myself all started out and up the canyon (only me on the SS, where were you RacinJason?). As we began to climb and maneuver the switchbacks it became apparent that the skies were far from clearing.

Amidst the clouds, were some enthusiastic riders who trudged on through the increasingly damp air (which really became a drizzle) and lowering temps as we ascended upon Beek's Place...which by this time visibility was down to 50 feet, probably less. Since this was my first time up Blackstar, Kristine and Brenda took the time to take a couple pictures with me over at the "ruins." As we all waited to decide whether our route would continue, it became more chilly standing there so we decided to continue on to Sierra Peak.

The clouds became more dense, more wet and the air more cold when we arrived at our destination. We snapped a few photos, had a couple laughs and headed back down the road for warmth and replenishment. As the guys and I were waiting at a junction for the ladies, we heard some coyotes off in the distance. When the ladies reached us there was a look of terror in Beth's face and apparently a young coyote was nipping at Brenda's tire (literally) on one of the climbs. Brenda wished she had gotten a picture while Beth was busy trying to shoo it away.

Anyway, after that we all continued down the mountain and back out the way we came without trial or tribulation.

Good ride everyone...now if anyone wants to go back and do it when the sun comes out let me know. I hear the views are wonderful.

[bighit8]

Looks like a great ride. Crazy, coyotes going after cougars Good news, even though I was not able to ride today, my new account for work is looking promising.
Great picks Rich, thanks for posting.

[ericfoltz]

Another fun/cold ride in the Santa Ana's.

Frank & Beth


Helicopter view



Gotta love Blackstar





Porn



Frank & Beth at the cattle grate



Singletrack Angel & Richie Rich



Brenda & Grant



Beth & Frank arrive at Beeks



Almost home





Thanks everyone. I think the smiles say it all.

[Elisheva]

Eric,

Inclement weather makes for interesting photos.

Thanx for the great shots.

[bighit8]

This one is good, you all look like your up to no good
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[ransom]

Thanks again for a wet but fun ride. It was good to have met you all. I look forward to riding with you again soon. Great RR & photos.

[Singletrack Angel]

Thanks to Rich for a great RR and Eric for being our fearless leader as always. Really nice to ride with you Frank and Grant, you are fun trail males.

Super ride Beth and Brenda! You guys made the climbing look easy today. I wish we got a shot of the cute little coyote though... We probably could have gotten a pic before he took a chunk out of your leg, Brenda.

Despite the inclement weather, we all had big smiles on this ride. I don't think I have ever enjoyed a warm shower as much as I did today.

[foofighter]

jealous, i should have played hooky today and done this LOL

[brendagilbert]

Todays ride was fun , and cold! Great company, crappy weather, but it was perfect for Blackstar, it can get too hot there! Kudos, props, and everything good for Beth for blasting up- I never saw her again until Beeks place on the way up- she had been hiding her skills somewhere, because she is a AWESOME rider....
Kristine and I did sissy-lala for a bit- visited some Newts and wondered where to get the steroids Beth was taking. Took some fun pics at Beeks...We could not see for more than 50 feet (or less). The coyote - what can I say? Beth was as pale as a ghost- she was saying STOP- get off your bike as I approached a big hill- I THOUGHT WHAT? I'M COVERED IN BEES? tHANKS BETH FOR SAVING MY LIFE!! The cute little coyote ran off wagging its tail before I could get a picture...Fun descent and just rewards afterwards!

My cute little friend
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Kristine found one too!
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Beth discussing the benefits of HD glasses
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Beeks Place- Kristine and Richard
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Some Hillbilly at Beeks
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Sierra Peak in the Fog
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Group shot at Sierra Peak
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Richard playing with fire
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MMmmm Hot chocolate and food.
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My new beige forks!
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[Elisheva]

Hey! No fair! You didn't tell me ya'll were going to Miguel's! That's my fav Mexican Restaurant!

Darn it!!!!

oh Well, hope someone had a shredded beef taco in my honor