Police and Hollywood Crescent

[mshepard]

In my usual role as pack fodder approaching the Beacon Hill sprint this morning (culmination of the farm team/TS Hill Ride) a motorcycle cop pulled up beside me. I thought it was my lucky day when she asked if I rode along Hollywood Crescent every day at "this time". (Do you come here often?) Not to be. Turns out there have been "a number of complaints" Although no specifics were given as to the nature of the infractions just a heads up to obey the rules and be respectful of the neighbours. Oh and thanks Peter L for the Madison practice slingshotting me back into the Peloton in a classic HTFU moment This is a close second in my TS greatest accomplishments behind being pushed up King George by Rob H on a what I found out later was single speed.

[John D]

Interesting....thanks for the heads up.

I wonder what sorts of complaints she was referring to? By the time we get to Hollywood we're usually hammering along (generally quietly) in single-file, often not even "pace-lining" per se. Perhaps it's the speed? Can anyone recall any negative interactions with the locals along Hollywood? I'd have been less surprised if the complaints had come from the folks at the top of KGT who have to listen to us whenever we stop/re-group before the descent to Hollywood.

Anyhow, forewarned is forearmed. I've heard other recent reports that the Oak Bay Police may have us on their radar - which I guess means that we're the most dangerous thing going on in Oak Bay before 7:00am!

Humour aside, I would strongly encourage all TSC members to ride respectfully. We don't own the roads.

Thanks,
J.

[Lund]

I've heard other recent reports that the Oak Bay Police may have us on their radar - which I guess means that we're the most dangerous thing going on in Oak Bay

Actually, no. THIS is the most dangerous thing going on in Oak Bay (according to OBPD's Weekly Media Release for April 28-May 4):

"On April 28th, a motorist contacted the Oak Bay Police when he observed two motorcycles with passengers who were observed holding hands from bike to bike for half a city block. Those involved were contacted and advised of the complaint and warned of the dangers of holding hands when motorcycles are in motion and the potential for a collision."

Oh, Oak Bay – you're quite the hotbed of criminal activity.

[Dave L]

Can anyone recall any negative interactions with the locals along Hollywood?

It's probably that guy that lives at the corner of Robertson and H. Cres. - he's a really grumpy bugger!!

Seriously though, I'll talk to a few neighbours, at least one of whom has who has previously expressed concern, although I don't know if it's related to speed, size of group, noise, or just general displeasure at people enjoying themselves. Perhaps I should bring my 5-year old and the dog when I go visiting

Dave

[Rolf]

Do you think this might be worth following up directly with VicPD and OBPD? We have a long term interest in continuing to safely ride the waterfront two-up. And it's always better to engage in an ongoing dialogue than to become an enforcement target due to complaints. It also lets the police assure any complaining citizens that they're on the case.

Let me know if I can help, John. The chair of Oak Bay's police board is nearby at work; I'll start there. Do we still have any cops who ride with us? Colin?