Well, I'm back from my cross-country adventure to Velo Rendezvous 02. I'm sitting here with my box of tissues, still fighting off the cold I picked up just before heading West. Not enough cold germs to dampen the fun of the event though. What a fabulous time! Three days of non-stop bicycle-culture emersion and too many Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Friday's frame builder's symposium was fascinating, with a virtual who's-who of frame builders in attendance. Saturday's unannounced special entertainment included (among others), fascinating stories of life-long involvement in cycling by Dave Staub and Ted Ernst. Both with lots of really cool memorabilia and old photographs to paw through. Dave's tales of being 17 and in Europe on the track-racing circuit were just wonderful, and Ted's enthusiasm and excitement were awe inspiring. How old is Ted anyway? However old he is on the outside, he's still 19 and flying on the inside!
And then Sunday. Wow! I've never seen so much fabulous bicycle hardware in one place, at one time, in my life. Serious sensory overload. Perfect Masis and Colnagos start to seem down-right pedestrian next to some truly exotic and fascinating examples of the world's best stuff. And, believe me, that's what was there. Too many examples to single out any one specifically, you just had to see it to believe it.
Oh yea. There were also rides every day!
Yes, all that's fascinating, but what it really comes down to is the people. This community of like-minded people, all willing to share their time, knowledge, advice, stories, (etc, etc) and friendship is just the best part. That's what makes these events truly memorable and enjoyable. Now all I have to do is figure out how to afford this every year. Let's see. Cirque in the Spring, VR in the Fall. Life just keeps getting better.
I took about 200 digital pics, and since everyone else is already posting, I'll try and do the same soon, if Chuck doesn't beat me to it.
Special thanks to Matt for generously providing his "beater" Masi 3V to me for the weekend. Not to shabby for a loaner, huh?
And extra special thanks to Chuck and Brian for all the effort to keep everyone happy, stuffed and entertained!
Whew. Next stop T-Town.
Wayne Bingham
Falls Church VA