Bicycles Inc. Arlington would like to invite you to join us in their Century of the Month Ride on December 4, 2010 in the city of Arlington, TX. We were lucky enough to be granted an interview with Eddie Holsopple, the Store Manger of Bicycle Inc. Arlington about their ride this week.
How long has the event been around and how did it start?
The ride started in Sept. 2008. It started as promotion for the stores new location. I have a great costumer Rick Wilson a very active member of the Ft. Worth Bicycle Association had the Idea of a century ride very month a few years ago. it had a small bit of success. We talked about what would bring more riders. So we added the shorter distances so new riders could work up the a 100 mile ride.
What was the motivation behind starting this event and if there are any who benefits from it?
We don’t charge for the ride so there is not a Beneficiary of the ride. We thought it could be good for riders of all levels(give them a monthly free ride)the store (bring riders into the store).
How have they been able to utilize the funds in the past?
As far a volunteers, there has been several who help but mostly my employees. It costs a good amount every month but it is worth it.
How many port-a-potties do you have?
As far a port-a-potties and rest stops go. We set the route to go by stores where there are bathrooms and places to buy any food or water that is needed.
What’s the average number of riders who finish the ride?
We have averaged around 90 riders per month. Some months we get over huge turn out like in July we have a Tour De France ride. On that ride we make French breakfast with Sweet Crepes, Crescents, eggs and fruit. We have the Tour on TV just have fun.
What was the worst accident you had in this event?
Accidents are an unfortunate part of cycling. Lucky for us the group brakes up and the different levels of riders divide naturally. Rides at similar abilities tined to go smoother.We ask that everyone fallow the traffic laws. Remember car always win. We have had a few accident along the way. There have been mostly dog bites, and few crashes. The worst crash we’ve had have been a broken collar bone.
Any celebrities joining the ride?
Celebrities? Local cycling celebs yes(Rick Wilson, Greg Philips, Jeff & Lauri Donavon.& Casey Gordon) Entertainment celebs not yet.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
We just want people to come out have fun ride there bikes enjoy the roads we have there in the south part of the Metroplex and Support our sport.
Thanks Eddie Holsopple for this quick interview and we hope to catch everyone at the ride!
Click here to view the event details for the Bicycles Inc.’s Century of the Month Ride