Well that was fun. A great turnout for the 10th annual Highway 71 Classic presented by Collier Drug Stores. The Bicycle Coalition of the Ozarks is a bicycle advocacy organization.
“The BCO is a 501(c)3 non-profit working to create a more bicycle-friendly community through Education & Infrastructure. A more bicycle-friendly community is a happier, safer, healthier, more people-friendly community.” (BCO website)
The Highway 71 Classic is their primary fundraiser ride/tour event. To learn more about the BCO click here. They have a bunch of great programs and volunteer opportunities.
It was a foggy chilly start but that all changed pretty quick. The bike racers have used this event as a mock race as far back as I can remember. For some, it’s about getting a killer workout while mixing it up with some of the best riders in the area. For others, it’s about trying to hang on for as long as possible. And for others, it’s just riding enjoying the day. For whatever reason you chose to turn pedals on Sunday the proceeds went to a organization doing good works in our community.
Our group of eight or nine guys ended up stopping the clock at 3 hours 10 minutes. Averaging over 22 mph for 70 miles with about 4,000 gain. While I had the legs to make the selection I did little to contribute to the effort. We had some guys on great form in our group. Kudos to Sean S, Russell W, PZ & Art H. Those guys were crushing it.
Registration. The heater was a nice touch and much appreciated.
Rolling up to the start. I bet they had over 200 participants.
A big thanks to Paxton Roberts Executive Director of the BCO, Britney Schrag the Program Director and everyone who volunteered.
Let the fun begin.
A little chilly to start but what a fantastic day and event. I could eat those pb&j sandwiches every day. BCO does it right.