The day started out as usual with ten Blue Knights and associates meeting over breakfast at Snellgroves Restaurant in downtown Plant City. About and hour later, full from good food and good conversation, six of the group prepared for the day's ride.
The day was already warming as we turned our motorcycles south, intending to turn the 48 mile drive to Gulfport into a 78 mile motorcycle adventure. Click here for the entire route.
All too soon, we arrived at out first stop, the Sunshine Skyway's south rest area. From here you are afforded an excellent view of Tampa Bay at it's mouth.
And of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge itself.
As these pictures indicate, the weather was absolutely perfect - blue skies and calm winds. And, for Floridians, the temperature was not too bad at only 90 degrees.
While enjoying the view, we were joined by a somewhat confused Brown Pelican.
The bird may have been ill or just confused by fence and some warning tape that prevented him from flying to the water. Fortunately, he soon decided to walk around those obstacles and found his way out.
We were soon on our way again for the six mile ride across the bridge. Now, I have been across this bridge many times and it is always a great view of both Tampa Bay to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. Today, however, was probably the most spectacular view yet. The clear blue water, cloudless blue sky and the white wakes of boats and ships out enjoying the day made for a very impressive sight. My only regret was that I failed to have my camera out to document the view.
We next stopped at the bridge's north rest area which looks west towards Mullet Key (Ft. DeSoto) and the Gulf. Again the view was spectacular with fishermen wading the flats and more on kayaks, as well as pleasure craft passing back and forth. Just as importantly, this rest area is much more shaded.
If you look closely at the right side of the frame above you can just make out the disturbance in the water as a mullet is about to jump. We were amazed to watch the ongoing display as a school of mullet and an occasional snook jumped from the water.
We were next off to Gulfport, a small picturesque community tucked in between St. Petersburg and Boca Ciega Bay. We opted for lunch at one of our favorite eateries, O'Maddy's Bar & Grill.
After lunch, Eddie and Bob K. decided to head home while the remaining four riders headed over to Barnie's of St. Petersburg to drool over the latest offerings of motorcycles and gear. We left with several additions to our wish lists, but no purchases.
The final leg of the day's journey began with Lloyd & J.T. looking for the fastest route home while Boyd and I continued across the Gandy Bridge to Tampa. After a trip along Bayshore Boulevard, we turned towards home.
My route today was 144 miles of excellent roads, spectacular views, good food and great friends. That is the reason we ride. Come and join us for our next motorcycling adventure.
Glenn "Gunny" Monroe
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