Bastille Day Ride review

Bastille Day- French National Day- is akin to our Independence Day. It is in remembrance of the storming of the Bastille, a prison-fortress that also held political prisoners and ammunitions. Shortly after the storming of the Bastille, feudalism was abolished and The Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen was passed - It became the basis for a nation of free individuals protected equally by law. We, at the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition further interpreted to mean everyone had the natural right to enjoy the buttery deliciousness of French pastries.

Laissez-les manger des croissants!

Cycle Quest in Sorrento Valley offered to host our Bastille Day Ride. We chose to ride to Darshan Bakery in Encinitas. We rode 12 miles, indulged in some French pastries, and then rode back.  Sharon of Cycle Quest provided a nice pre-ride spread of fruit, madeleines, and baguette. The Sunday morning ride was quiet from the start but soon became busy with other cyclists and cars along the 101. One rider suggested that we return using a different route, utilizing back roads rather than relying on the Rt. 101. We all agreed that would be a great alternative. 

The 25 mile was at a social pace and riders introduced themselves to each other and even discussed bicycle safety.  A puncture near the end of the ride provided the perfect opportunity for a photograph to document the riders.

We hope to make this an annual event, maybe to a different French bakery each year. Suggestions?

 Ride to Darshan Bakery in Encinitas

Bike ride back to Cycle Quest