Korumburra               Sunday  11th November, 2007

 

Like a Fellini movie, the surreal experience replays in my mind – a fresh misty autumn morning, the powerful roar of sportsbikes ridden by leather-clad gods of speed. I, feeling like a child, watched in awe as you all descended with cutting accuracy into the little town of Loch.  I scanned and my eyes were drawn to an exotic beauty - the latest tri-colore Ducati sportsbike. I had to make contact with my bloodline.  Your stay was all too brief; you were all about to disappear from my life as quickly as you had appeared… I was feeling a sense of loss… it will all be gone, forever… and then, the spiritual connection was made…as in Michelangelo’s “The creation of Adam”, you Ben, the serene master, reached over, passed into my hand the golden slip of paper (MSR Ride Itinerary) and breathed the speed of life into my existence.

The following season I came to you, feeling very timid and way out of my depth and wondering whether I should be riding amongst these masters of speed.  Alas, I, a mere apprentice, could hardly keep pace. But despite feeling very dejected about not being able to keep up, it felt wonderful being surrounded by such a friendly, helpful, vibrant, passionate and fun-loving bunch of riders… I so wanted to be absorbed into this wonderful riding atmosphere, but I couldn’t bring myself to compromise your riding spirit with my limitations. Hence I started to withdraw.

But it was not to be… the master of serenity and calm, Ben Warden, made contact again (via email) and encouraged me to come back.  I honoured the word of the master and returned to take up this great challenge and in doing so, received much encouragement, support, kindness and advice and have returned again and again and again. I have never ridden so hard, for so long and laughed so much from all the mad and wicked humour… I’m enjoying every minute of it. 

And how fortunate this humble apprentice feels to have recently experienced, as a pillion, the wild, powerful and passionate speed of Misho on his Suzuki GSXR 750 and the sublimely swift and razor-sharp riding skills of the master himself on the Honda CBR954 – so very ethereal.

Craig did offer to take me for an enjoyable riding experience on his dirt bike, with the very convincing promise of “no hooning” and I really did very much appreciate his kindness,  but I thought best not to go…. so sorry Craig x

Much heartfelt thanks to all my MSR fellow-riders for making me feel a part of this wonderful club. Your patience and support, the wonderful learning experience that is being offered, and for all the crazy riding fun that I have when I’m with you...  I’m so loving it! 

p.s. still waiting for the beautiful and elusive Ducati to appear on a ride

p.s. Ron, come and do some more monos… please

 

Pina Garasi