Passport to Pain | Many who participated appreciated island hospitality

Published 5:20 pm Tuesday, September 24, 2013

All of us at Vashon Island Rowing Club would like to thank the many, many island motorists who smiled, waved and cheerfully made way for the over 200 cyclists who pedaled Vashon and Maury Saturday, Sept. 14, during our annual Passport to Pain (P2P) ride.

In order to spread the field from the start, we’ve discovered that it’s best if we only send a couple of P2P riders out onto the course per minute, while asking our participants to try to avoid riding in large groups that could slow traffic.

We hit an all-time high for off-island cyclists this year, many of whom had never ridden the island before. At the post-ride barbecue, we heard from so many who deeply appreciated the gracious courtesies that were extended to them along the ride by motorists, pedestrians, island businesses and even a variety of young entrepreneurs who set up drink and snack stands along the route.

Thanks again, Vashon, for your patience and good cheer.

—Bruce Morser
Vashon Island Rowing Club