Pictured are riders participating in the 2023 SKP Bike Tour.
Submitted photo
The Simon Kenton Pathfinders (SKP) will hold their 24th Annual Bike Tour on Sunday, Sept. 8, beginning at the Urbana Depot.
The fund-raiser, in memory of the late Betsy Bohl, is the Pathfinders largest fund-raiser each year. Bohl was a charter member of the SKP and long-time treasurer. The Bohl family has been the primary sponsor of this event for many years.
Three route choices are offered to participants, each providing various degrees of difficulty. The 15-mile route is entirely on the Simon Kenton Trail (SKT) and very flat; great for beginners and families.
The 31-mile/50K route is 50% on the SKT and 50% on low traffic/rural roads near Cedar Bog; mostly flat and scenic. The 62-mile/100K route is a challenging ride, 95% on roads in northeast Champaign County and into Logan County; riders will be on parts of the Top of Ohio and Cardinal trails and also pass through West Liberty.
The event will begin with a 7:30 a.m. check-in and continental breakfast for participants. Riders may depart anytime after 8 a.m. and no walk-in registrations will be taken after 11 a.m.
Area drivers are reminded to always show extreme caution when approaching road cyclists and obey all Ohio laws pertaining to cyclists; most importantly, maintain three feet of distance when passing a cyclist.
The “Early Bird” registration deadline is past but if you are interested in participating, online registration is still open or you can register the day of the event; cash or check only.
All youth registrations receive a new bike helmet, in the interest of promoting riding safety. All registered participants also receive event T-shirts, food and support services during and after the event. Food trucks will be available in front of the Depot all day for participants and the community. This year, we have La Granja and Wilson’s Rollin’ Schmoke.
Register online at: https://www.simonkentonpathfinders.org or submit questions to: [email protected].
The Pathfinders are a non-profit who have built and maintain 28 miles of bike trail in Champaign and Logan counties.
This event and grants, sponsorships and donations are SKP’s only income.
Submitted by SKP.
