The Burn your Buns Bike Ride invites you to join their upcoming ride happening on July 4, 2012 at Bridgewood Farms, 11680 Rose Road, Conroe, TX
We were lucky enough to be granted an interview with Flo Nelson, Executive Director of Bridgewood Farms to ask some questions about their upcoming ride.
Why join the Burn your Buns Bike Ride?
Open to riders of all abilities, the event offers three routes of varying lengths that travel through northeast Montgomery County. Riders who register in advance will receive a tie-dyed T-shirt and pin made by a Bridgewood Farms client. Food and beverages will be available at the rest stops and upon completion. The “Burn Your Buns” bike ride offers 20, 31, or 62-mile routes for riders of all abilities. All routes start and end at Bridgewood Farms, a former Christmas tree farm north of Conroe on Rose Road. Proceeds from the ride will benefit Bridgewood Farms, a nonprofit organization helping developmentally challenged teens and adults reach their highest potential.
How long has the event been around?
This is our 9th year for the ride.
What was the motivation behind starting the tour and who benefits from it?
Motivation is to offer to riders, seasoned and unseasoned, an opportunity to ride in a well organized and protected event while supporiting a Charity and enjoying it. Individuals as well as families have come and participated in our July 4th event. Some do the 20 miles ride, while others participate in the 31 and 62 mile ride. Some say this ride motivates them in preparation for the “Hotter than Hell 100”.
How have they been able to utilize the funds in the past?
The funds received from this event are used to help with operating costs for this non profit. Sponsors are obtained in order for this to be at no cost to the Organization.
Logistically, can you give us an idea how many volunteers, finances, and planning it takes to put on this event?
The number of volunteers are approximately 30+. This includes volunteers at registration, Sherif’s Department (3), EMT’s (3), Sag Wagons (3), The Lake Conroe Rotary Club, The Woodlangs Cycling Club, plus volunteers along the way at the stops that are provided. Finances – all except t-shirts is donated services. Planning takes about 3 months total.
What was the most rewarding experience throughout the years hosting this event?
Rewarding experiences are many. Mostly having people know what they are riding for and who they are supporting. Clients come to this event and help serve lunch, drinks and show off their vegetables, plants and ceramics that theymake. It is also rewarding to see the age range of some of the riders. Families riding together is great and we have even had a 72 year old riding. But probably the most rewarding is when we are told what a great event this is andhow they will be back next year. Many riders stay and have lunch and visit with their peers, talking about upcoming rides, their businesses and meeting new friends. It is a great experience for all.
What is the average number of participants per year? How many riders do you assist during the average race?
It started out with 90 and last year there were over 300 riders. In between years range from 150 to 250 riders. Assistance is available, but there has been minimal assistance needed. There have only been 2 minor accidents, toour knowledge, and very few have had to use the sag wagon. Riders help one another with flat tires and minor repairs. EMT’s are available, if needed.
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
Support can be given in many ways. Volunteering at our center or our 2 Thrift Stores. Being able to offer help with their experience in their individual trades and of course, offering monetary support by way of scholarships for thoseunable to afford the day to day costs with our day hab or transportation. Some riders have gone back to their employers and provided “days of caring” from them and fellow employees.
What is your role in this race and to the success of it?
I facilitate, purchase, get sponsors, and get the best volunteers to help with this fun day.
Do you ride and if yes, what kind of bicycle do you ride and what is your favorite route in your area?
I do not ride, but my Intellectually Challenged son and his friend ride 31 or 61 miles depending on the weather. The ride that they have participated in and have enjoyed is the Sean Ashley rides.
Additional stuff you would like the folks to know about this year’s ride?
The ride is well marked, protected and a little bit challenging.
Thanks Flo for this quick interview and we hope to catch everyone at the ride!
Click here to view the event details of the Burn your Buns Bike Ride