Towong Highlights

 

I haven't quite been able to make it all the way to some of these long weekend rides away:

 

  • kangaroo hits R6 night before Jindabyne 2009,
  • R6 spits the spark plug at Bombala on the way to Jindabyne 2010, and
  • Honda spits me off at Tallangatta, Melbourne Cup Weekend 2010.

 

Misho to the rescue, as always, so the ride continues with me on the back of the Blade. Despite my knees feeling like my body's crash knobs (excellent pain relief provided courtesy of Peter Jones's on-board Nurofen... thanks Peter!) I felt so happy to still be part of the ride.

The ride was wet, wet and more wet on the way up.  It was so nice to finally arrive at the cosy guest rooms at Towong to a warm shower and a nourishing and tasty dinner provided by the delightful owners, Ron and Sarah.  Their hospitality was so welcoming and heart-warming, which together with the surrounding beauty of the property, made it such a wonderful place to be for the four days.

Over the next few days the weather was good to us and we were able to enjoy the thrill of endlessly great roads at 'yee-hah' speed.  I was even lucky enough to experience some of the roads at the hands of Ninja-Master, Dave Ward.  Absolutely brilliant on that 600, attacking anyone or anything in his way, samurai-style - the ninja gods would be proud.

That second evening we all got together for dinner at the Corryong pub where we also met up with Cindy Lee's riding group.  It was here that we were introduced to her friend Steve, who, after speaking with Ben Warden, kindly offered to bring my Honda back to Melbourne on his trailer - what a god-send.  This gesture of human thoughtfulness and kindness put me in the best mood for the rest of the trip.

We had an interesting mix of people participating in this long weekend - Rob Jones - who has us in tears of laughter with his wicked humour; Ben Fuller with his infectious laughter and the master of wheelies all weekend; their mild-mannered friend, Texas always with a pleasant conversation and smile to be had.

The President, Ian Payne and his vice, Paul and the MSR ' Tasmanian devil' - Dave Ward - all  stayed in Corryong and joined us on the 2nd, 3rd and half of the last day ride - not enough!  I enjoy your company very much, so come back riding soon 'cos I miss you all.

Henry, a bright and happy little spark, was most entertaining with his technical knowledge of all things to do with motor engineering.  Ronny... you were a bit unusually quiet - I think you were so rapped up in how your bike was performing so well - you were truly 'in the zone' and action spoke louder than words.  Peter, a gentleman as always, patient and thoughtful - lovely to have you participate. Cliffy and Robby  - our two Mr Happys - most pleasant as usual.  Barb, your presence brought a nice homeliness and warmth to where we were staying - lovely!

John Rousseaux - our ever-patient rear-rider who kept us entertained with his 'naughty-boy' humour; luckily Kate was there to keep you a bit in control!

Ha Du, our Captain - you had a tough job keeping the 'boys' in line, but someone had to do! Glad it was you, not me... I'm not that brave.

Our Tasmanian import, Boyd, was most impressed with the roads the MSR club went on this weekend - it was hard to imagine how we could out-do Tasmania, but we did - thanks to our illustrious ride-leader, Ben Warden - your geographical knowledge coupled with your meticulous planning and wealth of experience ensured the success of this Cup Weekend ride for all of us -  you did a great job.

And last, to my darling Misho, for enduring me once again for the whole ride on the back - you know how much you thrill me - it's priceless.  Many thanks x

 

Pina Garasi