Bellingham Undressed

Ski to Sea Volunteerism…Continued

Well, we did it!  Made it to the top, wrote down the number of every of every cross country skier as they finished, and every runner as they began their 8 mile leg of the race.  My shins hurt just watching them!

We are now the official back up to the electronic system.  It still has some issues with the first two legs.

“Do the Monkey” was yelled as every racer came across their electronic finish line.  They had to bend as low as possible and swing their arm…like a monkey…so the “device” would register.  The management team for the electronic system has repeatedly told Ski to Sea officials, that this is A) dangerous and B) very inefficient! The bands need to be warn on the skis, ankles…some where it make sense.  This company sets up and records races just about every weekend of the year.  Maybe someone should listen to them.

Okay, next subject.  Coming back down the mountain.  Yes, they released hundreds of cars early.  However, they still let cars come up the mountain beginning at 11:00 am.  Have you ever driven down a mountain, slowly averting bicyclist, who are racing down the hill..then deal with oncoming traffic???  Very stressful.  Apparently we managed not to kill or maim anyone, but it seems it would be in the best interested of the racers if the cars coming up the mountain, we held back until Noon.  Just my humble opinion.

Now to the fun part!  The ride up the mountain in the wee hours is always a hoot.  A car full of rummy sleep-heads can lead to uncontrolable giggles!  Add to that, our outstanding weather…and you have the makings of a great day!

We stopped at FirRidge Campsite to devour our quiche & fruit spread. A breakfast fit for…well, fit for enthusiastic volunteers!  The sun was just peeking out through the trees.  Beautiful way to start the day!

Once we were on the mountain…it was all business.  A sea of race numbers.  No major crashes, or close calls.  A very well run event.

We did however, run into a cat named Willow Johns. WIllow creates numerous Whatcom County documentaries. He was fun to watch.  And a good sport, as we gave our unsolicited advise on what he should be saying.  Stating we were experts…because we watch a lot of TV!  Thanks Willow for the added fun, and putting up with us!

Back down the mountain…headed for Fairhaven; for our ultimate reward: