In our club, there's a legendary figure known for constant complaints: Cranky. Some think Cranky is real; others think that's a myth. But those grumbles—whether about cancelled rides or imperfect weather—are infamous. Just ask Lyle O, who always gets Cranky's anonymous complaints.

On our last ride in Horse Creek, suspicions ran high. The ride, intended to conquer some hilly terrain, seemed like the perfect breeding ground for Cranky's grievances. We started as a large group of 19 riders, each with varying levels of enthusiasm for the day's challenge. Some aimed for a comfortable and modest 60km, others set their sights on 80km, and the most ambitious—or perhaps the most masochistic—planned to conquer 100km heading towards Water Valley.

From the outset, it was clear that the ride would be fraught with opportunities for Cranky to make his presence felt. The pace was too fast for some, too slow for others. The hills seemed never-ending, plus Mother Nature added her own joke with dropping temperatures and ominous thunderclouds. Yet, for some, the ride was just right and thoroughly enjoyable.

Adding to the fun, our coordinator kept reminding everyone to "stay single file" and was fretted about the speedy "pace liners" who seemed determined to turn our scenic ride into a reenactment of the Tour de France. Her shouts of "single file, please!" are still echoing across Grand Valley.

The truth is, nobody knows how far Cranky rode that day, or even if they were there at all. Was Cranky the one muttering at the back, or the speedster frustrated by our slow pace? No one knows. Cranky might have been among us, or they could be a little part of each of us. Maybe Cranky is only cranky on paper but the most smiley person in real life.

By the end, tired but triumphant, we realized Cranky's spirit of shared crankiness and many good laughs keep us entertained, making our club rides memorable. 

So, who is Cranky? Or perhaps the better question is, are you riding in unity with the team, or letting your individual spirit shine?