It almost didn't happen...And though it ended up being pretty fun, it probably shouldn't have happened. I'm talking about, of course, the 23/2300 Hammerfest.
Apart from having a wide range of cycling talent on the Smyrna Bicycles Cycling Team, from Pro level to Snow Bunny level, we also have quite the plethora of amateur meteorologists. Prior to any ride, computers are alive with Al Roker disciples. Once the "Go for launch" signal is given, we can be pretty sure that there will be no rain.
Mongo won't go into the "technical" side of forecasting weather over the computer, but let's just say we got it wrong tonight. It was too bad because we had a nice turnout..."Big" Willie, "Little" Steven, "My reign as Hammerfest Champion is almost over" Clay, "Just got engaged" Boonen, "MC-Lean", "Danimal", "Snow Bunny", and a bunch of other guys, were all there. Noticeably absent was "Frady" Brady.
It poured like a mofo for at least half the ride, and braking became merely a suggestion when the levers were engaged. Everyone rode sensibly, and we eliminated several high-speed downhill sections. Mongo did manage to lead out the Sprint, but I faded with about 150 meters to go and was passed by... pretty much everyone.
One of the downsides to riding in the rain is how messed up your bike gets. Dirt, grease, liquefied brake dust, road scum, all find a way to get fused to the bike. I spent a good half-hour with the hose and some citrus degreaser after I got home.
-EPILOGUE-
Mongo has just learned that "Danimal" crashed on his way home tonight..."Damn you, Doppler radar!"
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