Breakfast at Bass Lake, 2025

By Morris Garagian

Bro Martin decided that enough time had passed from the VBAC’s last outing, so the decision was to take the ‘beasties’ out for a little ‘R & R’. The only problem with organizing any kind of a run this time of the year is the infernal heat that is prevalent most days in July & August. Not to be deterred, Martin set the run for early departure; a ‘beat the heat’ tour. Being back in the valley by about noon should work before ole sol reaches its’ apex.

Being that “The Wee Red Beastie”, Martin’s Mini Panel Truck, had found a new home and Martin’s fun ride was now a Mazda Miata, it was only fitting that this be a dual auto club event. Therefore, the word was put out to the San Joaquin Valley Miata Club to join the Valley British Auto Club for this outing.

Saturday morning saw a nice gathering of 6 each, 2000 era Miatas join Green Goblin at the kick off area. Morris apologizes to readers that he does not remember details of the owners/vehicles other that Nancy & daughter Debbie had a pink metal flake car, Greg & Mary’s car was red, and I believe Roger & Janice’s car was also red. Sharon & Marti were together in their RX-7 as well as Tim & Kathy in another RX-7. Of course, Martin & Gwen (VBAC & SJVMC members) had their Miata. The Japanese iron was soon joined by the Brits: Steve & Terry (MINI), Bill Van (Jaguar XK8). Bill Ver (TR-6), Richard S. (TR-3), Karl (V-12, E-type) and Jon & Joanie (Jaguar XF).

After introductions and small talk, we started eastbound on our journey with Martin as pathfinder and Goblin sweeping. Leaving the valley behind, we climbed into the foothills until our rest stop at Humphrey Station. Continuing into Auberry, we were joined by Richard & Carolyn (Sunbeam Alpine). From there, we descended to Kerckhoff Reservoir before climbing up the hills to North Fork. From then, it was a leisurely drive among pine trees to our destination of Ducy’s, on the water’s edge of Bass Lake. At this point we were joined by Bernie (MG Midget) after his travels from Mariposa.

After a pleasant breakfast/brunch, it was found that the members of SJVMC enjoy ice cream almost as much as the VBAC. With that in mind, the majority of the Miatas and a few of the Brits decided that a stop at Reimer’s @ Oakhurst would have to be done.

Bidding our old and new friends farewell, it was time to head homeward bound. On the way to the valley, Morris decided to treat Goblin to some mid-range gas at Chukchansi Reservation (no CA sales tax!) where we met one of the Miata folks with the same idea.

Back on the road, we realized it was starting to get warm. A glance at the dual oil pres/temp gauge confirmed that the Goblin was getting unhappy. Unhappier still when we hit Fresno stop & go traffic heading to Sanger. (Drat! Should have taken 180. At least we could keep moving). Finally pulled into home port and popped the bonnet to relieve some heat. After a cool drink and a glance at the outdoor thermometer confirmed it: 106! Ugly!

Got to be cooler next run. Right?

 Til then: Safety fast!