And Not One Breakdown

Vol 11 No 1

April 25, 2009

Eight MGers gathered at the traditional meeting place in El Estero Park at about 10:00 AM. It was still a little chilly at that time of the morning and everyone was prepared to  bundle up.   Ken Stewart,  Goulds, Strands, Gibfrieds, Spangenbergs,  Don Martine, Whittakers,and Obbinks made up the tour group. Off  we went at 10:15  or so. It was the city streets toward Fort Ord. We were taking  the route Judy and Pat had found earlier in the month. We were going to explore some parts of Fort Ord that one would never think about driving through.

I know this is going to be difficult to believe but four MGTC's on the trip along all the back roads of Fort Ord in Monterey County, up grades, down hills, stopping and starting and not one single breakdown! And even more spectacular, Bruce Obbink's 1949 TC made it through the entire trip without stopping even once. For those of you who have witnessed the Obbink blue beast know full well that is somewhat of a miracle that he wasn't towed home before the day was over. 

It was a fun day overcast and a little chilly, but nice driving weather. We drove past a lot of the old buildings and abandoned quarters but also saw some new housing that looked great. First we drove out to the location of Stilwell Hall which is now a state park. The view from the eroding cliff is wonderful and we could see where the building used to stand. 

The view was enhanced by a para glider going back and forth and putting on a little demonstration for us. He was having a ball diving down and then shooting nearly straight up. Each pass he made he waived to everyone. A great photo opportunity.

We then toured Fort Ord including the University Campus. All an interesting mix of new and old. We found our way on to Jack's peak for a picnic lunch at a special BBQ area. Some folks cooked a hot lunch and standing around the fire felt good. Keep in mind we stayed on the back roads all the time. 

At Jack's Peak we had reserved tables and lit the BBQ for those that wanted to use it. We talked about future events, possibly an over night down the coast, perhaps a trip to Morgan Hill for the Autumn Classic this fall. After lunch everyone took off for home and wouldn't you know it. By the time we got back to Pacific Grove, here was the sun. But never the less, it was a nice day, the cars all ran perfectly and we had a good time. Wonderful company in our club.