by Mary McPoil

The Sacramento Wheelmen started drifting into Paso Robles on Thursday, October 7, for the 4th Annual Paso Robles Zodiac.

The first ride of the Zodiac, on Friday, offered two options. One group rock-and-rolled to Parkfield (remember the earthquakes in October) and the other toured the better known wineries in the area.

The Winery Tour just happened to be the ride that I was on, and even with the tasting, testing, and buying, I managed to climb 3000 feet in about 40 miles. Thanks to the reliable Shopper Chicks for sagging our bountiful purchases back to homebase.

We welcomed the late arrivals at Friday's post-ride happy hour and had a surprise visit from Dale and Jan Tudor. Dale's Canada-to-Mexico bike trip got him into Paso Robles this very day, and I think the two of them were happy to see some familiar faces.

It was an early group dinner at Big Bubba's Bad to the Bone BBQ. After dinner we separated the Democrats and Republicans and went to our respective rooms to watch the Presidential Debate. I am happy to report that there were no political casualties during this event.

On Saturday we had four options to ride to the coast. Everyone took the route to Cayucos and then up Hwy 1 to Cambria.

The Hammer Heads (testosterone challenged) decided to take Santa Rosa Creek Road back to conquer some 19–20% walls. Those of us who shied away from the unknown took the relentless climb back over Hwy 46.

Even after the 75 miles and 5000 feet of climbing, everyone made it back in time to join the group at the pool by 4:00 pm. A group dinner was enjoyed at McLintocks.

Sunday was a breakfast ride to Creston's Loading Shute for a buffet brunch. We then pressed on to Santa Margarita where we ran into members of the San Luis Obispo Biking Club doing what all cyclists do best -- EATING.

We took Hwy 229 from Creston to Santa Margarita, as many of us feel it is one of the nicest cycling roads in California. This is a great road with a little climbing, downhill switchbacks, and it's smooth with minimal traffic.

The 53-mile ride with about 3000 feet of climbing was at an easy pace and resulted in an early return to Paso Robles. Yes, many of us still had time to do antiquing or take a nap before meeting at the pool to discuss the day.

Ahhhh, Monday morning arrived, and like the preceding days it held the promise of sunshine and moderate temperatures. It is a tradition for the Monday ride to go to the Mission at San Miguel.

Some of the Wheelmen elected to sleep in and get an early start back to Sacramento. The Hearty Souls, however, braved an 8:00 morning chill for a few extra miles and took advantage of one last experience absorbing the wonderful scenery of this exceptional area of California.

I have learned that the Zodiacs are not just about riding, but a gathering for socializing and developing friendships. The effort that Glenn and I put into this Zodiac was complemented this year by Deborah and Gerry Walburg's generous supply from their great home-winemaking cellar.

Most of us did 200± miles with about 11,000 feet of climbing during the four days. There were over 40 Wheelmen and guests, so if you want to join us next year, mark your calendar for Oct 6–9, 2005. You will experience good food, great camaraderie, and spectacular cycling.

A Glenn & Mary Guarantee!

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