Ridin' High in O-HI-O

Talk about a perfect day. Lisa, Brad, Nate, Mary and Claudia trekked out to Ohio over the 4th of July weekend (it wasn't too far of a trek for Brad and Claudia) to join the Ohio Federation of Soil and Water Conservation Districts for their Team 509 ride. Our great friends from Ohio organized the ride to raise money for the Renovation Ride. We had 12 riders in total, and two support vehicles, one of which was driven by none other than Chef Daddy Hammon. Everyone made it the full 52 miles, and a couple folks rode even further because they couldn't follow the directions!

The weather was perfect, the scenery was gorgeous, and the company was good too! We stopped at Price Organics where Tom Price told us all about his impressive composting facility. The Delaware SWCD filled our bellies and water bottles and presented a $500 check at that first stop. Thanks Delaware SWCD!



Next up was NACD President Elect Steve Robinson's farm. Steve wanted to have a big cookout but was given strict instructions by Mindy and Kent that we only wanted PBJs. The PBJs were excellent (although I think one of Steve's burgers would have been good too!). As usual, he was a great host and sent us on our way fat and happy to wrap up the last 20 miles.



We finished up mid-afternoon still smiling and injury free. Ok, so some of us waddled a little the next day but overall, everyone was in good shape.



We had a fun weekend and it was great preparation for the "big ride" that is just around the corner. Fred proved that he's a great "sag wagon" driver, and patiently followed us all day, shielding us from traffic and taking pictures of the riders and all the conservation practices we passed.


A HUGE thanks to our friends in Ohio for organizing the ride and being such strong supporters of the 509 Capitol Court Campaign and the Renovation Ride. Check out their pictures on their website at http://ofswcd.org/2008_team_509_bike_ride.htm.