DUBBUB RIDE REPORT: 21 SEPTEMBER, 2014
The 60km ride from Macksville to the Pub With No Beer at Taylor’s Arm and back is known as a very challenging ride due to the frequency and severity of the hills encountered for almost the entire distance. This is enough to frighten off significant numbers of otherwise enthusiastic DUBBUG riders who suddenly find excuses to do something else or plumb for an easier cycling option on the day.
As this was also the day on which the Nambucca to Macksville dual use pathway extension was being officially opened an excuse was easy to find. Several members rode from Macksville to Nambucca, joined the sixty other riders who rode the new cycleway, ventured eastward to the Pacific Ocean to have refreshments at the V-Wall and then returned to Macksville via the Wirrimbi backroad. Thus they managed to avoid the school holiday traffic on shoulderless Highway One.
Meanwhile the intrepid group of riders exceeded all expectations by arriving at Taylor’s Arm half an hour prior to opening time. Enthusiastic Dave led the conversation on the latest electronic gadgetry available and educated us on notable websites of reknown as we waited expectantly for the usual caffeine and carbo loading extravaganza. Disappointment was palpable when machine coffee was dispensed and starvation was mentioned when it became apparent that no food would be forthcoming. Exercise induced endorphins would have to do.
The ride back to Macksville was assisted by a chilly tail wind in overcast conditions so the usual overheating problems slogging up one hill after another were never experienced. The visual appeal of the Nambucca River Valley compensated for the other shortcomings and the group maintained a merry mood over the hills discussing bicycling touring options once the Vietnam ride is concluded in a month. The all male contingent arrived safely back in Macksville without Miss Hap or Miss Adventure.
Mike Flood