SOUTH AFRICA PICTURES

South Africa pictures

FAREWELL FAITHFUL FRIEND

If memory serves me correctly, it would have been 1995. I became better friends with D because we were both in the "advanced" Phys Ed program at Port Credit (although one look at my grade 12 mug and, clearly, I didn't get in because of my physique). He was into biking then and told me about an awesome deal. Though it wasn't a recognizable brand name, it had all the latest components: Shimano LX (yes, this is even pre SIS days), quick lock wheel nuts and saddle post and, best of all, a light weight Cromoly frame! After a bit of haggling with my parents, I was the owner of a new Mingo 6700. I quickly retrofitted it with fluorescent green (only because anything fluorescent was cool back then) bar ends and cages for the pedals. Throughout the years, I learned a lot about how a bike works on her, as she allowed me to do a lot of routine maintenance and repairs. I've never been in a single accident with her, despite the many miles she accumulated while commuting me to various work places, countless Sunday bike rides, and even one triathlon. Recently, the bottom bracket has become irreparable, and I've been commuting in on my mountain bike. Well, I found out that Bow Cycle was taking in old bikes, refurbishing them and then donating it to a Bike-For-Kids program. So, I bid Mingo a heart felt farewell. Thank you, faithful friend!