Gong
Ride 2007 |
Louise, Mat, Will, Roman, Liam, Chris, Roman Jun. |
| Three Extension Bikes |
Mat and Will |
The Boys:Liam,Chris,Roman |
Chris and Mat |
National Park: The team |
Louise |
Illawara Mercury Shot |
The forecast was lousy and the early morning rain didn't really
raise the spirit either but Will still picked us up at 6:30
AM sharp. The drive up the highway towards Heathcot was not
much more inspiring either. Rows and rows of wet riders heading
towards a wet Wollongong some 90 km in the distance. Will,
Louise, Liam, Roman, Chris and I were praying to the weather
gods for some mercy on this all family Gong adventure from
Heathcot to Wollongong. 56km of rainy road didn't sound like
great fun. By the time we met Mat at the parking lot next
to the starting line the sky was looking much better. By the
time we put the extension bikes for the three tug-alongs together
the sun was smiling upon us and the road begun to dry. After
a short ride along the highway the road headed down a steep
descent into the national park. The first 15 km went very
quick and after a quick refresher at the trough of the national
park we starte the climb up to Stanwell tops. Even with the
kids at the back the climb seemed relatively easy and before
we new it we raised down from the look-outs towards the new
rainbow bridge. Heartbrake hill shortly after the bridge also
went easier than expected and the local photographer made
sure that our photo would all end up in the Illawara Mercury
sport section (see link below). After a short drink stop at
one of the many gorgeous beaches undulating along Princes
Hardgrave drive we hit upon the goal before we knew it. Listening
to the local police band while the kids were rewarded with
their ice-creams, the bikes disappeared on the pick-up truck
and we lounged on the bus back to Heathcot. It was all over
in a flash and seemed much too easy. We were already thinking
about the next adventure......
Sunday 5 November 2007
Roman
25 October 2007
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