Fun times at the Long Beach Lighthouse.
Joy of carving outshines cloud-filled day.
On a holiday weekend that bears the name of one of America’s biggest dreamers, thirty Trikke riders — and one cyclist — came together on Saturday for the 2nd Annual MLK Ride of Long Beach, sponsored by TrikkeWorld and SouthBay Trikke (official local dealer of the magazine).
It was a day of giving in the form of can-food donations — something that first began at last year’s MLK and has since become a staple at all SBT&T events — and it was a day of carving, the common joy shared by So Cal carvers, who come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
“With these 30 people, how can you not have fun?” summed up Rich Goff.
It was a sentiment shared by SBT’s Andy Pliska: “The ridership we’ve got is amazing. We’re lucky to be here in Southern California and have these great people.”
On Saturday, that ridership — up 10 from the first MLK’s 21 riders — had to deal with cooler temperatures and cloudy skies hovering over the 15-mile ride route, most of which was along the beach.
“It was good once we got going,” said SBT’s Irene Tice. “You know how your legs warm up, so it was perfect. It’s so nice out here. I love Long Beach.”
The lack of direct sunlight failed to dim riders’ spirits, however, especially when several carvers reached their personal bests — distance wise — prompting cheers and applause from fellow riders.
Monica Jeffries
“Great, tired, amazing,” said Monica Jeffries after carving the uphill, spiral path to Lighthouse Park for the first time since joining the So Cal carving circuit last May. “It can be done. The encouragement really helped.”
Then there was Linda Roberts and Margaret Park, who received congratulations after reaching their own distance milestones at Belmont Pier.
Equally impressive and uplifting were George, riding for the first time while completing the entire course, and John of Azusa, who discovered the Trikke in December (while buying a Kickbike on Craigslist). Despite being a self-taught newbie, he was able to finish the entire route.
“I really like it, it’s just fun,” said the Azusa resident of his new toy. “I actually picked up some tips, hopefully I’ll get better riding with other people.”
Also in attendance was John Tolley, back in the Trikke world after an extended absence.
“It feels good,” said Tolley. “I met a lot of nice people years back and again just now, getting back into it. I wouldn’t ride as far if I weren’t in a group.”
Angjelko Pancevski
Tolley should know a thing or two about riding far in a group. He’s the original creator of the legendary Aliso Creek Endurance Ride, now staged by Trikke OC’s Lisa Hoolihan.
“You have me to blame and Lisa to thank for keeping it going,” he said jokingly.
When asked if his return to riding meant his return to June’s AC26, Tolley gave TrikkeWorld this exclusive scoop: “I will return in 2012. I will be back for the Aliso Creek Endurance Ride.”
Some would call that MLK magic.
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