Tour D’Amico Bicycle Ride

Dennis’ Birthday Ride: 30.59 miles
TANDEM Pedal Time: 2 hours 45 minutes, average speed 11.0

This little bike tour in Golden Valley, MN has been on our to-do list for some time. It takes place each year on the 4^th of July, which is also Dennis’ birthday, and this year we had plans to be in the Twin Cities which made it very easy to work into our schedule and not only would we be riding the tandem in this event but Kennedy would be joining us in the Burley for her first organized bike ride—A very happy 54^th to Dennis!

We were full of spirit as we began pedaling along the 30-mile route. We kept a close watch behind us as Kennedy settled in for the ride. Many riders passed us commenting on our red, white and blue outfits and of course on our precious cargo.

Our route started at D’Amico & Sons in Golden Valley and then spurred west along the Luce Line Trail and then south towards the water town of Wayzata. We enjoyed strolling along the Wayzata Bay which lead to a rest stop at D’Amico & Sons and included a variety of delicious salads, fruit and snacks. Kennedy enjoyed walking around the water rocks which created a perfect photo op for Grandma until it was time to return to the Burley and continue our ride.

We could tell Kennedy was getting tired when it took some coaxing to get her helmet back on but once the tandem wheels began spinning, she fell asleep and napped through an invitation to join a local parade that was lining up to start. We declined with the explanation that we were on a bicycle tour and had a map we needed to follow.

The afternoon temperature was getting very hot as we pedaled along but we all stayed hydrated with plenty of water aboard. We did experience a few incorrect markings along the route but made it to the finish in time to enjoy lunch under the shade of the D’Amico umbrellas.

We spent this awesome riding day with Kennedy and at ride’s end she still had smiles to share. She did a wonderful job entertaining her Grandma and Grandpa and we look forward to the next ride we can all do together.