Oakland Yellowjackets Bicycling Club

If you don't know Fred, well, you really ought to. He is, after all, going to be the next president of the club.

Back when I was new to the OYJ, lo those many months ago, Fred was like my guardian angel. I flatted right at the end of the Lake Sonoma ride. I had just recently bought my bike. I think it was my second or third club ride. I had no idea what to do. Fred came along, whipped off the tire, replaced the tube and sent me on my way, all with the grace and good humor that we've come to expect from him (and in 100 degree heat no less). For that, I am forever grateful.

Now Fred comes through again, graciously agreeing to be first subject of the Better Know a Member series.

--Andrew Hecht, 15 September 2009

Nickname: N/A
Group: Advanced Intermediate
Year joined OYJ: 1996 or 1997

Where are you from originally? Oakland
Where do you live now? Oakland
What's your profession? Business Consultant
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Medical Doctor
What profession would you not like to do? Love the law . . . hate lawyers.

How and why did you take up cycling? Reintroduced to cycling by a former OYJ as a crossing training to marathon training.
What was your first bike? A used 1989 pink and white LeMond Centuarian that was at least a size too small. It weighted a half ton.
What bike do you ride now? A Seven (is there any other brand?) Axiom.

What's your favorite club ride? Pacifica - Monterey. It's got the distance, the scenerary, a good turnout, dinner and Al's stories afterward.
What's your favorite climb? Mt. Hamilton cause it's fraking hard.
How many miles do you ride a year? About 2,500 miles.
Can you fix a flat? Absolutely.

Favorite movie? Casablanca
Favorite musician/group? Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
Favorite beer/wine? I don't drink
Favorite local restaurant? Currently is Ozumo's in San Francisco
Favorite Bike Shop: Robinson's Wheelworks (but, be prepared to listen to Chris talk . . .and talk . .. and talk. ..)

Paper or Plastic: Paper
Sugar or Plain: Sugar (of course)
Creamy or Chunky: Chunky
Chocolate or Vanilla: Chocolate (what else is there?)
Sweet or Sour: Sweet (that should be clear by now)
Dogs or Cats: Big dogs, Black cats
Pen or Pencil: Pencil (I reserve the right to change my mind)
PC or Macintosh: PC
Full Screen or Letterbox: Full screen (I want to see it all)
Dubbed or Subtitled: Subtitle (you have to pay attention to learn anything)
The Movie or The Book: The movie, then the book . . . the other way just pisses me off.