Idaho Poker Ride for Paws & Claws

I came for exercise and free stuff, but left with so much more. Yes, it was obvious that I was the guy who won his ticket off of Unilocal.Amidst a sea of fit, health-​conscious cycling enthusiasts, I was the fat, beer-​swilling, mildly-​hungover Unilocal guy who got the free ticket. That’s right, Unilocal community, I did my best to represent all of you.
To begin with, I should mention that I only elected to do the 15 mile ride (a cowardly move). It was great, but over too quickly; I wish I’d gone for 30! My rookie cycling status was probably painfully obvious to the more professional riders present. For example, I was the only guy wearing gym shorts instead of spandex. I was the only guy with a beer hat on, instead of a helmet. I was one of the few people with running shoes, instead of the ones that lock into pedals. Perhaps most importantly, I was the only person with some 10-​year old, high school girl’s bicycle (with off-​road tires, no less) that I’d bought for $ 50 probably seven years ago off of craigslist. Everyone else had some seriously nice gear and, understandably, my appearance drew some looks.
As far as the event itself went, I found it to be full of happy, friendly, encouraging volunteers. Even the DJ shook my hand for being there and riding just the 15 miles. Every time a rider returned from the wild, the volunteers all cheered, shouted and rang cowbells. The space was nice and big, especially considering it was held in a parking lot. We were all given a tote bag full of awesome, free goodies, and the event was «catered.» A salad bar was provided, which many of the healthy cyclists went for. I, on the other hand, chose to continue my reign of terror as the guy downing sandwiches (courtesy of Jimmy John’s) and beer (Dead Guy is, technically, a breakfast beverage). Yes, I managed to draw more looks, especially from coffee drinkers and those who feel 10:30 a.m. is a weird time for a delicious, craft beer.
Also present were masseuses /​chiropractors who gave a complimentary massage, as well as the owner of Meridian’s own Nothing Bundt Cakes. As a side note, I had a lovely conversation with her and found her person, as well as her wares, to be so pleasant that I think I’ll have to plan a trip there with the wife in the near future. I thought cream cheese frosting was a dead art, but it absolutely MADE those cupcakes, personally speaking.
I don’t always find large events to be well-​coordinated, planned, thought out, executed, etc. However, this one was stunning success. Of course, I was sure to pick up some Unilocal swag, too, when I got to meet our very own community ambassador’s husband who was, by the way, a total class act and possibly my new beer buddy (you hear that, O, that’s a formal invite to drink with the old boy… bring the spouse!).
Thanks to all who put this on. Seriously, a great job done for a great cause. Plus, I got my mouth’s two favorite things in the whole world: beer and sandwiches (and the exercise to compensate for them).