Duncan #1 Hub and Spoke, May 30 – June 03, 2022 by Allan Smyth
The Duncan Hub and Spoke on Vancouver Island, May 30 to June 3, organized by Chris Hodgson and Diane Swindell, was an outstanding success.
Twenty participants enjoyed four and a half days of riding on bucolic quiet country rides and restored rail trails. Key destinations were the historic Kinsol Trestle, Chemainus and its murals, Cowichan Lake and the renowned Duncan wild bird raptor centre. Rides averaged 65 km, just the right distance to start off the season.
We rode each day in three groups, including leaders and sweeps, setting out in different directions each day. This enabled riders to choose their comfort zone with nobody left behind. The accommodations were basic but clean, centrally located, and affordable. Dining facilities were within walking distance.
Apart from the rides, the best thing for me was the social activities particularly the gathering after rides. There was lots of fun and laughter, old friends reconnecting, new friends made.
The only downside was after four days of perfect weather we had torrential rain on the last day and our wine tour had to be cancelled. Never mind, we’ll do that next time!
Allan Smyth
Happy Hour at the Duncan Motel.
Kestral Falcon at the Raptor Centre.
Allan Smyth explaining the Sikh Temple at Paldi to Diane, Mary, Dale and Allan.
Allen Olsen faking a tumble along rail trail washout near Duncan.
Mike Young taking in the 1924 Canada Day parade in Chemainus.
At Kinsol Trestle with Jean, Sharon, Rob, Denise, Vicki and June.
Vicki, June and Sharon on the Trans-Canada rail trail.