Pedaling for Hope ride draws cyclers and cooler weather

One hundred cyclists, riding various cycle types, departed the Tanglefoot trailhead plaza on the morning of August 18, joining the Pedaling for Hope ride.

The event was put together by the New Albany Main Street Association and Tupelo’s Regional Rehab Center. According to the event flyer, proceeds of the event will benefit the two organizations.

Main Street is a non-profit organization working to promote success and preserve history in its community. Regional Rehab provides free services, including speech, hearing, occupational therapy, etc., to Northeast Mississippi residents.

Billye Jean Stroud, Main Street Association Director, said the Pedaling for Hope ride had registered 120 riders and 100 participated.

Riders of all levels were welcomed to the race and could choose from 25 mile, 50 mile or 100K courses. The 100K course, called a “metric century” ride runs for 62.5 miles.

It was raining in the early morning, but the rain had stopped before 7AM, when cyclists began to arrive for registration. The ride began at 8AM under cloudy skies, with temperatures at a comfortable 71 degrees.

There were T-shirts for participants and lunch was provided by El Agave restaurant.