Friday afternoon a group of Green Wheelers set out on a journey to Ferndale, by bike, camping gear in tow. Traveling through Loleta we enjoyed a route largely absent of highway traffic and crowded streets. Approaching the fairgrounds we were passed by dozens of cars and trucks, packed with bikes and spandex-toting riders, bound for the TUC. Take a visual photo tour of the trip here: (http://picasaweb.google.com/KCWright.srvs/TourToTheTUC).

Considered one of the most challenging centuries in the US, the Tour of the Unknown Coast (TUC) draws riders from across the country, ready to try their strength and wits against the endless hills (which end at the finish line) and vicious headwinds along the coast. The Humboldt State team, Green Wheels, Adventures Edge, Revolution, and Henderson had riders out in force.

Camping on grass was divine, probably the reason most riders were in their tents by 7:30. Hot water was abundant in the showers. As usual there was a huge assortment of colorful bikes and associated riders. After a lot of spaghetti we passed out in the warm, foggy air.

Saturday morning people were up at 5:30 am eating breakfast, stretching, and wondering if they forgot their shoes or not. Everyone was smiling, or not smiling; in good humor, or not. The air was cold, a light breeze was blowing, and brightly-painted articles of spandex could be seen zipping around in circles, warming up and getting loose. All were anticipating the miles ahead. The century began at 7am with hundreds of riders at the start line. Soon after the metric century riders began their tour. Green Wheels volunteers were setting up at the start/finish line, ringing cowbells and cheering as each race started.

Almost as soon as riders left, they began arriving again. The Green Wheels team did an incredible job taking finish times, entering data, cheering finishers, ringing bells, eating food, taking pictures, talking with new friends, wondering when the sun would be out, playing guitar (thanks Chris), and generally jumping around with excitement. Who won? Some guy from out of town I think. But local riders made the most exciting/energetic displays crossing the finish line.

At the end of the day, tired but happy, the Green Wheels tour left the TUC staging ground, winding its way back to Eureka and Arcata. A good day had by all. Look out for future tours and events organized by the group; where camaraderie abounds and smiles are around every corner.