We finally made Wabasha and the Eagle’s Nest proved a welcome port for the evening. All the appreciative nutters were well fed by Java Jim and Java Jan as we shared an entire roast hog fresh off the spit along with our favourite; English mushy peas washed down with English ale. Cap’n Porter, our Keeper of the Cask, declared the taps open and rations of grog was issued to the crew. After dinner we honored our oldest rider Bob Gibbs at 91 years of age, Ron Grogg, our "opportunist," announced a toast and the vicar, then led us in boisterous song with accompaniment by the Carrigan Girls.
Sunday morning dawned pleasant with force two winds but humid and cloudy and after another amazing breakfast by the Eagle’s Nest we set sail on course for Lake City. The hills seemed like pleasant waves as the miles rolled by. Beautiful views of the lake were at every curve. Lake City could be seen in the distance like a beacon as the tailwind push us along.
Finally, safe harbour was gained, supplies were procured and the Brew-Up was under way. Truly a new gentleman’s and gentlewoman’s sport, the competitive tea brewing proved popular to contestant and spectator alike. Some nutters watched, some napped but all were impressed when fine china was pulled from the saddlebags, tea was brewed and treats were served. The crew of Sandy Muzzy and Mark Wagar were declared the winners but Peter Jourdain and Juston/ Judy Anderson were very, very close behind.
The next port-of-call was Old Frontenac and a quick visit to the 1850s cemetery was in order. The Old Stone Wall was next on the list with many photos taken and lots of chitchat. By then, the heat was becoming oppressive but we had one more stop to make: the geodesic treehouse. An amazing structure placed well up in an ancient hackberry tree, it proved a worthy curiosity and completely unexpected in this idyllic setting.
We pressed on through New Frontenac and down Ski Road; a delightful alternate route that was lined with wildflowers and scenic vistas across the valley.
Eventually we made Red Wing and dropped anchor. Sadly, our tour of duty was over for another year. Dinner at the Staghead was a welcome relief from the heat and all the nutters raised a glass to our successes, failures, discoveries and promises. Once again proving the humble three-speed is the ship-of-choice for adventure both nautical and otherwise.
Jon Sharratt has been a cyclist since the age of six. He is a rider, builder and designer of bicycles and enjoys touring, commuting and collecting. Antique and vintage bicycles have always been a passion for Jon and he is the former 10-year Captain of the Minnesota Wheelmen. Jon is the moderator of the Gentleman Cyclist Group: groups.google.com/group/gentlemancyclist
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