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May 18, 2008

Perfect conditions for United Way Bike Ride

Nice weather helps bring out riders for third annual event

By Jim Rueda

ST. PETER — It was unanimous Saturday: The five different routes for the annual United Way Bike Ride and Rally are something to be savored.

The third annual event — sponsored by The Spoke bike shop, the United Way, the St. Peter Recreation Department and the St. Peter Police Department — featured courses for just about everyone. There were 3-mile and 6-mile treks for the beginner and recreational riders, along with 22-mile, 35-mile and 60-mile rides for the more serious bikers.

The weather also cooperated as the sun was out all morning and afternoon and temperatures climbed into the 70s.

Pam Olson, a co-owner of The Spoke and the event organizer, said the intent of the ride-and-rally is three-fold: To raise money for the United Way, to showcase the bike trails in St. Peter, and to promote bicycling as an excellent way to exercise and have fun.

Cyclists started as early as 8 a.m. on the long course and as late as noon for the shorter rides. Everyone ended up back at the starting point at the St. Peter Catholic Church parking lot for the post-ride rally. The rally was geared mostly toward families with activities for kids, concessions, safety bike inspections, tours of emergency vehicles (ambulance, police car, fire truck) and helmet sales for just $7 a piece provided by Immanuel St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Guy Beck and his 14-year-old daughter, Brittany, came down from Jordan to participate in the ride and raved about the course afterward.

“It was perfect,” he said. “The weather was nice, the roads were flat and well-paved. We had a great time.”



For complete story, see the Sunday, May 18, print edition of The Free Press or sign onto our e-edition.

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