My perspective - if you read the post was from the of the pack. I lay no claims to the front.

The group that rode with me from lunch to Shady Ridge was Audrey, Tracey, Sylvia, Judy and Wayne. We were met by CJBruin at Laguna Canyon and Alton but he rode ahead. 2 other riders were caught and we finally caught you and Brandy at Quail Hill just before Shady Canyon but we had to stop/slow down for everyone to catch up and you guys rode ahead. We met again just at the entrance to the bike trail. I didn't know what you were doing. I rode up and you passed me.

I Understand you and Brandy are new riders and not acquainted with group riding. I do suggest you come out some time and ride with one of the established OC clubs like OCRR, BCI or OCW. A route slip is posted and everyone goes on their own. No one expects the ride to be swept (unless specifically listed as "no drop" but everyone knows that means "if you can keep up") but this ride was advertised as NO DROP. A number of people drove from all over to participate and were not, unlike club riders, familiar with the area. Someone had to stay back and make sure everyone found the route. Had everyone done this ride before, I wouldn't have worried.

For me this was not a popularity contest. I could care less and maybe that's where the animosity comes from. I'm not in any way trying to steal anyone's thunder. For me it was a chance to do another ride with the great gals I met at TE and help prepare myself for Cool Breeze. I also just wanted everyone to be safe and happy. Nothing else. Sorry. That's it.

BTW Wayne is a nice guy. You really should not disparage him. Me? I'm the first to make fun of myself. But Wayne came out to support us and he was very kind to give up part of his day to assist with the ride. It's just his nature to be kind and helpful. Also thanks go out to all that helped. I know Extort and Jchen and CJBruin and Cali's husband because they hung out back at times but thanks to everyone else who helped and I didn't know.

PSS: I was not shooing you off. I don't much talk during riding especially in groups. Once we spaced out and were riding in 2 and 3's I was OK. The group was very large and all over the road especially up Harvard which makes me nervous. As a former board member of BCI I'm all too aware of the complaints bike clubs get from motorists. Plus a number of years ago I had a very bad crash. I suffered a head injury and fractured collarbone. You didn't know that. But when in large groups of riders I don't know I'm being observant and wary - that may seem standoffish. I know I was alittle "rule nazi" at first and actually got into it with Extort when I complained about some of the riders being out in the road taking photos while cars came by. Sorry - just too many friends have been injuried while riding by their own negligence and by cars. It was just a ride. Everyone had good time. Everyone finished and everyone was safe. Geez, need to stop being so sensitive. Personally, I just don't get it.