It was Saturday morning, August 28th 1999. The sun began rising into the sky and the air was still crisp. This was the day of Steve Hoppe's Farewell Ride. A final chance to join Steve on a mountain bike ride before his relocation to Arizona. The overcast was beginning to clear as I rolled into Big Basin State Park. I arrived just in time as the sun filtered through the redwoods. Everyone was getting prepared to ride and the time to depart was approaching quickly. Patiently we waited without a Roger to be seen, we assume that he is a flake and leave without him. In fact, there were others who weren't able to participate because they had taken a number from the infamous excuse list.

The ride began and we left the parking area by riding up North Escape Road. Discussion about Roger continued for a time as we rode up to highway 236. Some of the comments heard from the attending riders were similar to wuss and pansy. Of course Roger hasn't been heard from yet, so he has time to fabricate a valid excuse for his absence.

Then on up to China Grade Road where we climbed up to the big rock for a break. The view was tremendous because we were near the top of our climb. Airing down the tires at the top of the mountain, we now hit the dirt. As we pass Cutters Boy Scout camp, we begin a descent down Butano Ridge Road. This was a very fun section with lots of loose sandy curves.