Okay, I've read all the posts about the Cirque and like others on the list, I said I would refrain from posting my comments and impressions. However, as a "newbie" and in case you guys didn't notice one of the minority, I thought these impressions might somehow carry some meaning.
I mentioned to Bob Hovey (who I talk with more than my wife), one of the greatest things I felt was lost when I retired from twenty three years of submarine duty was the loss of comradship and "esprit de corps" with all the men I've served with. The submarine community is unique and close bonds are made between men who come from different backgrounds and environments. There was a similar feeling during my short career as a racer, but those days too are long gone. However, I found that connection again with all of you that I met, talked with, and probably bored with my submarine stories during the Cirque.
Finally meeting Bob face to face, as well as the many others I knew only from the list or the ocasional magazine article was like finding the holy grail. As a newbie, I was apprehensive about how I would be accepted, but that emotion faded the moment I first met Dale. And over my two day attendance, I was befriended by people I had never met before. The experience has totally vindicated my love for cycling and envigorated my obsession for vintage bikes. On top of that, it was a learning experience also. The wealth of knowledge that was there and so freely shared was impressive.
The emotional feelings are hard to describe or put into words how much the somewhat brief association with such a swell group of guys (and girls) has affected me. I guess it says a lot about the human spirit that even in times when the world is in such turmoil, that a group of people can still get together and have such a fantastic time. These are memories I will keep with me for the rest of my life. Even when I return for my second Cirque in 2006, nothing will replace the emotions of the first.
Fred Durrette
Summerville, SC