One doesn't have to look too far for the silver linings of the overcast, cool and damp clouds that blanketed the GREAT day we had Saturday on the Longleaf Trace! Just look at the seventy something recumbent riders of all ages that ended up challenging themselves to ride at least their age in kilometers or miles. Just look at some riders who put money in the bank by riding more than their age in miles, including those who rode the entire 84 miles, out and back. Especially look at riders who, even though thwarted with some adversity, including blown tires, flats and even crashes, were in good spirits and still smiling.

The silver lining might resemble a halo around the many volunteers who staffed the rest stops with grilled chicken, sausages, hot dogs, pickles and all the other solid and liquid fuel powering the leg cyclists, hand cyclists, runners and walkers we passed on Saturday. We wish we had had time to visit with everyone! We did get some video of some of you as we passed, though. The drizzle didn't seem to dampen the determination and drive, we noticed, and folks seemed to be enjoying one of America's best places to ride, in spite of the 52º chill.

There was definitely a silver lining of generosity surrounding the many folks who contributed time, door prizes and money to the event. Especially, Dr. Bob McGuire, of the University Medical Center, who donated to the LLT, the 2005 RANS Fusion bicycle he won at the drawing! We understand Harry Strohm, the founder of this event, will do a silent auction for the bike to raise money for next year's event. Concerning next year, we are working with the Trace on planning a two day event that will be even better! Also, stay tuned for a Ride South event on the LLT on the second weekend in April (tentative date).

Thanks to all the folks who put this great event on and helped to make it work! We know clouds come and go, but the silver lining will always remain around you, our valued customers who came from all over the country to participate! We appreciate your support and hope to see you on the trail soon!

PS: Tim Smith, (Kett Wiesel, EZ-3, Trets Trike family of five) lost his cell phone on the trail somewhere. If anyone found a phone, please call us at 601 992-2490.

Ride South Bikes & Boats
The Way to Ride
info@RideSouth.com
 http://www.ridesouth.com/
601 992-2490
888 822-3647