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Monday's FOS Kayak event was the best yet with 16 paddlers leaving here from a perfect launch site at the end of Marina Road. The parking lot and sandy beach proved to be well suited for launching our water adventure.
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Tacky Jacks looked very inviting and fun from our vantage point. We put on a show for the diners as our multi-colored kayaks floated on by.
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Then we scooted down one the canals lined with beautiful homes and they looked much different than the fronts do, as we often bike down the fronts on Marina Rd.
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Then we got 'up close and personal' to this signature yacht owned be distant relative of Bret Farve, Art Farve, and the yacht was named Works of Art. The enclosure was as impressive as the boat noting the 'open air loovers' allowing for no direct sunlight shining thru to the hull. Obviously millions were spent here for a little weekend fun once in a while.
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We paddled down into Cotton Bayou to the big water
tank and back stopping at Zeke's Landing Marina for an excellent lunch.
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Another sandy beach welcomed us as we visited for a slow but tasty lunch at WOLF BAY LODGE. Most of us didn't even know it existed but we were all HUNGRY and were happy to check it out. The view was great, luxury yachts everywhere, pelicans galore and a dolphin sighting.
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Pretty fine place to kill those 'Hungries', the Wolf Bay Lodge.
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Pelicans everywhere on the docks.
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Pelicans on every post.
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And at the end of a great 6+/-mile paddle we pose for a HAPPY picture all delighted at the discovery of a new launch site with many facets and options for future events. We've only explored a small portion of the many canals and waters available here.
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On Tuesday, 40 FOS enjoyed GT'S AT THE BAY, (old Caymen) for a very good lunch. But it takes two Pictures to capture everyone.
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Oh, yes, we rode bike to get here, some 8, some 12 and some 19.5 miles before lunch. We try to accommodate everyone's riding abilities emphasizing this: "The more we ride, the faster and the longer we ride". I, Jim, believe that when all the new trails open, probably after we leave for this season, there will be close to 30 miles of trails in the Park to enjoy, and many route options to travel avoiding duplication of trails on each ride. Lots to look forward to next season!
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Thursday's ride to Rita's, 23 March, 2017
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This picture shows a small contingent of our riders today enjoying the new trail bridge on the East end of the Cabin's road on our way to the Eagle's Nest Trail and finally to our reward at RITA'S Custard shop. Noticed all are apparently enjoying the day, the ride and such cool ambitious FOS friends.
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We made it to Rita's and attempted to create a 'brain freeze' with their frozen ice and custard blends.
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Several of us had to rest a bit following that fine 'treat' at Rita's. This is Howard and Andy Hendricks just enjoying the 'moment'.
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More, Terry and Lind Christianson, needed a break before the return ride. Now there's a happy couple.
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Another couple, Jim and Karen Diehm, think that Rita's was a pretty fine place to refresh.
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Bobby Miller is watching the antics and wondering where her 'happy mate' is. Knowing Bruce, he won't be far away from 'trophy wife'.
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More good FOS at our 'happy hour' at Rita's sucking down some really good treats.
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Kayak Rescue Demo in Pool, 24 March, 2017. Photos taken by Candy and Sheila.
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With the help of Joann and her daughter Becky, Ted Leavitt did a kayak rescue demo in the Gulf State Park Pool. Heel Hook start positions for the rescuee and rescuer were shown on the pool deck. In the water, Ted rescued Becky and then Becky rescued Ted. Ted rolled a couple times and made it back up, and also demonstrated the wet exit when the paddler has a sprayskirt to deal with.
Finally for the main event, Joann was rescued. We had a lively gallery with plenty of questions about techniques and safety gear.
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2 Person Heek Hook Rescue Start Position
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Rescuer Must Lean Out Over Rescued Kayak.
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Joann's Daughter Becky Rescued.
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Solo Rescue Using Paddle Float.
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Joann Gets Her Heel Hooked.
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Getting Her Second Foot Into the Kayak.
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Rotating Back Into The Kayak.
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The FOS bikers watching the rescue lessons.
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Big Beach Brewery farewell, 24 March, 2017.
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This nite, Friday 24 March, and gathering is for saying 'see you later at Fall Rally" goodbyes with the appropriate sand ferry much appreciated FOS HUGS.
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More FOS expressing what FUN they had this winter's season riding, kayaking, and partying together at Gulf Shores State Park. Time sure flies when your having such fun and exercising for overall fitness. Custom 'Brews' were a hit for most as well. Many brought many flavors of popcorn and other snacks to enjoy along with their preferred drink if the local brew wasn't their choice. Big Beach Brewery, a great place to kick back with friends.
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March 28,2017, the final FOS ride for winter 2017.Great turnout!!
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