A Crash, A Lunch and A Team Assembled

A Crash, A Lunch and A Team Assembled

Today was a unique combination of events. Because of the Mallorca 312, the road in front of our hotel was closed to all traffic from 11:00AM to 5:00PM. This meant unless we wanted to spend the day at the hotel pool, we had leave the hotel prior to road closing. While there are many sights to see and things to do on Mallorca, our thoughts turned to cycling. Steve suggested we find a place to watch the Mallorca 312. We drove to the next town and set up camp on a big left hand turn on the course. We waited for about 30 minutes while the parade of motorcycles and police cars successfully made the sharp left-hander. At least, it was time for lead cyclists. About 30 seconds in front of them were three motorcycles which made the turn, but for some unexpected reason, stopped right where the turn ends. As we watched in horror, the lead cyclist made the turn, but the motorcycles were not completely off the road. He tried to correct his line to avoid them, but was unsuccessful. He crashed directly into the motorcycles followed by three or four other riders. As Paul would say, they were in a bit of bother.  Pushed by the cyclists, all three motorcycles fell into each other like dominoes. Somehow, all the cyclists got up and continued. How, I have no idea.

After all the excitement, it was time for lunch. We drove to Palma, did a little sightseeing and then found a tapas bar for lunch. Three or four courses later, it was time to leave. A last quick walk through the heart of this amazing city and then we drove to the airport to pick up Mike.

Once back at the hotel, it was time for a some R&R with great Mallorca wines. Lisa and Neil also made it to the hotel after circling around waiting for the roads to reopen.  Team Mallorca was finally assembled. We gathered for dinner, story telling and discussions of the rides that start tomorrow.