Club Member Spotlight

What Could It Be?

Gathering for a group photo before the start
What involves 30 FFBC members, 8 guests from other Bike Clubs, 21 miles, 600 feet of climbing, 10 boxes of Mountain Dew, Anderson’s Bakery, chalk, cake, feathers, and lemon bars at the conclusion?  Well, it’s Walt Thomas' 7th Annual Rolling Birthday Ride, of course! 
Walt happily surrounded by women at Coyote Hills 
This year Walt’s Birthday Ride had a total of 37 riders, with members from the FFBC, Valley Spokesmen, Oakland Yellow Jackets, Grizzly Peak Cyclists, Golden Gate Cyclists, and Hike and Bike Clubs.  This year’s route was a tad different.  The start was at Don Edwards Wildlife center and the destination for lunch was Anderson’s Bakery, in Union City.  Walt kept up his yearly tradition of riding up Nike Hill, and most of the group was happy to keep him company on his climb.  He was happy to see Nike Hill chalked up in Birthday wishes, and of course a few photo ops were necessary once everyone reached the top!
 
Taking a break at the top of Nike Hill 
Next, the riders set off on their way to Anderson’s Bakery.  The restaurant was full, and the management was very happy to be the destination for the rolling party.  After everyone finished their lunches, the bakery surprised the group with a delicious cake that was glowing brightly with candles.  Jennifer Shively and Lambert's wife, Gloria, were unavailable to ride that day, but showed up at Anderson’s to pass on more cheer to the Birthday honoree.  The hugs and kisses flowed freely towards the guest of honor, and Walt, being Walt, was happy to accept all that were bestowed upon him!
 
 
Are there any tables left at Anderson’s Bakery?
  
Clearly, Walt doesn’t like being the center of attention!  
Finally the Group headed back to the start.  Upon arrival the cyclists were rewarded with homemade lemon bars, thanks to Karen Su.  Another friend, Nancy Oh, was unable to join the ride this year, but her presence was felt when Walt gathered up the ten cases of Mountain Dew she had sent him.   All in all, it was a fun day, with great friends, nice weather, lots of laughter, and no flats.  A winning combination for a Party on Wheels!   Again, Happy Birthday Walt!  We all know you haven’t quit celebrating!
 
Walt and Lori at the end of this year’s ride  

Close this article