Mike King

Tour of Long Beach 2011

I've posted a few photos taken before, during, and after the ride. Note that this entire affair was a benefit for the Miller Children's Hospital Long Beach, obviously a good cause. We're confronted with countless opportunities to give each and every day, and it's difficult to decide who is most deserving. Helping sick kids is the proverbial no brainer.

The ride was great. The gloomy weather, while a bit depressing prior to the start, was actually a plus, providing pleasantly cool temperatures. Even the winds weren't too bad. The worst I encountered were on the way home after finishing the ride! The riders were courteous, the volunteers helpful and enthusiastic, the drivers in their cars understanding and patient.

A free beer was available for imbibement at the Bike Festival soiree at the finish line, however, since it was only just after 10a.m., I was drawn to the cute little cupcakes provided by Rossmoor Bakery.

My only complaint is that my wife Kim couldn't participate. She is out with her friend Dawn at that raging bacchanal known as the Jane Austen Society Regional Conference at the Westin in Pasadena.