The Adventures of Campy Girlymann Continue

The old men were fascinating with their tales of bike racing back when cobblestone streets and dirt roads were the norm. Of placing a stick of wood in the top tube to give warning should the fork break and throw them over the bars. Of men that drank wine for power drinks and wore wool shorts and jerseys that soaked up rain and kept them cool in the sun. They were a happy crew with their memories and stories, and the time passed quickly with each wanting to add or remind someone of another story in their quest to entertain Campy with tales of yore.

"Mick! We are here." Said Alain

Campy looked ahead to a picturesque river scene. Small row boats saddled with couples lazily paddling up and down the quiet waters of the river. The river banks held green grass with stout trees along the the water's edge, their shade made the dappled light flicker on the wet surface.  

The young couples were there, along the banks with blankets being spread and food laid out to enjoy. Bernard and Ricky in the midst of them all, with an umbrella, pillows and a spread laden with tasty treats.

Campy took a quick look at the couple, nothing seemed to give an indication that they knew who he was, Girlymann felt a bit more confident, so he went with Alain to the cafe and bar where the racers sat at tables that overlooked the river. Their lean bodies, and legs like an antelope, on display where they sat and leaned back in deck chairs to enjoy a day of rest from training and races.

Alain walked to the group and as he neared, the older of the racers called out his name and smiled at him. He in return nodding his head and smiling back. He went to a group located at a table that had the best view, "Bonjour Gaston," he said and held out his hand.

Gaston took Alain's hand in a warm handshake and the two talked in French. Campy stood there, looking, discreetly for Jean Claude but didn't see him as he waited for the two men to finish speaking. When they did, Alain turned to Campy.

"Mick, they are going on a training ride tomorrow, you can follow them as long as you don't interfere with their ride. Gaston is afraid they might have to babysit you."

"Won't be a problem. I've taken care of myself up to now and plan to continue."

Campy turned to Gaston, gave him a salute and said, "Thanks Mate."

Alain then told Campy that he could meet them at the town's fountain at seven in the morning. They won't wait for him. Campy agreed and Alain thanked Gaston and took Campy's arm to guide him over to the side of the cafe where the old men sat with their bikes. Once at the table and seated, Alain told Campy what transpired.

"Mick, I was surprised they would let you ride with them. When I mentioned you were from Australia they seemed to warm up to the proposal. I think they are curious about you."

"I appreciate what you did for me Alain. Can I buy you a cuppa?"

Campy joined in with the old men and their bikes. He listened and tried some of his French on them and they in returned helped him. Girlymann felt relaxed and content, the conversation was as pleasant as the weather and with the scenery it made for a memorable day.

To be continued.....