Red Bluff Recap

Mar 10

Beautiful skies, cool temps and no motor vehicle traffic!

Last Saturday, I attempted the Metric Century route of the 2nd annual Red Bluff Gran Fondo bicycle event. Even though I didn’t ride the full 65, I did manage to log 42 miles. Not the win I planned, but showing up and giving it my best effort is a victory at this point in my life. And, if I’m honest with myself, I am not young enough, nor physically conditioned, nor strong enough, to take on routes with so many 7% and 8% grades. Despite the fact our state is not known for high elevations and steep hills, I will wager that the area known as “the Grand Canyon of Mississippi” is plenty challenging for even a seasoned cyclist.

Other than pushing myself to such an extreme effort, I want to participate in as many other bike events as possible this year. Why? Because I want to ride in the hometown events of folks who have supported our ride these last 12 years. Because I’d like to experience what other events have to offer and compare them to our Greenwood events. And mostly because cycling is medicine for my PD and I want to live that message.

Lauren Hall, retired pro cyclist from Vicksburg, gave our BBB event a high compliment by saying the ride led the way to greater participation in cycling in Mississippi.

If you missed the Red Bluff Gran Fondo, I highly recommend putting it on your ride list for next year. BEST REASONS: Race director, Bo Bourne knows how to organize a bike event; informative website, efficient packet pickup, pre-ride panel discussion among 3 former pro cyclists was very engaging, plentiful and friendly volunteers, professional look to the starting area, nice touch with Frankie Andreu as race announcer and once I was out on the course, I found it to be very well-marked with volunteers at all important turns keeping riders on course. Kudos all around!

Next Stop: Greenwood Gravel Grind on April 25th!

Richard Beattie

March 10, 2020

Greenwood, Mississippi