Greetings Cycling Friends,

      As the 2008 Cycling season draws to a close, I want to take this opportunity to express my thanks for a great season, as well as give you an update on some cycling plans for the future.  First, for all of you who like riding in cold weather, we are extending the season for group rides. Be sure to check the calendar on the website for postings.  We will not be compiling mileage stats past October 31 this year.  The rides will have a leader, sign-in sheets, maps, and ratings.  This year we had more rides with greater variety in distances (12 miles- 200 miles) than ever before.  Thanks to the many volunteer ride leaders, coordinators and those that kept the stats.  Won’t you consider leading a “polar bear” ride this winter?

      Our cycling events, the Horsey Hundred and Red River Rally, were well attended with 16,000 participants for the HH and 200 for the RRR.  This was the second year for the expanded two day schedule for the Red River Rally.  The addition of a Saturday afternoon ride and dinner grew in numbers this year, despite an afternoon UK football game and Keeneland races.  Next year will be the 40^th consecutive cycling event (longest in Ky.) in the Gorge.  Let’s think of something special to commemorate the cycling rally.  Thanks to all the volunteers that made these events successful.  Both of these events generated a profit, allowing the Bluegrass Cycling Club to provide bicycles to children at Shrines’ and in Fayette and Scott County.   This year we are partnering with Big Brothers to give 53 bikes to local boys. Be sure to join us on December 14 for the presentation of the bicycles and rodeo at Big Brother’s headquarters. We will be serving pizza and teaching safety to the young men receiving bicycles.

      We also supported local and national charities such as the Bluegrass Chapter of the American Red Cross, Multiple Sclerosis, and American Heart Association. The BCC/MS Cycling Team is training for the June 6 weekend in 2009. The team is over 25 strong already.  We also have funds designated for road signage on local roads to promote awareness and safety for road cycling.

      We are already planning for the 2009 Horsey Hundred under new leadership.  We will be working in conjunction with Bike Lexington to provide a premier cycling event on Memorial weekend.  Plans are being made to move Bike Lexington to the same weekend as our well established HH, allowing us to offer entertainment in Lexington to our participants.  Shuttle service between Georgetown College and downtown Lexington is being arranged.  Our participants will also have the opportunity to stay for the free family fun ride the Monday of Memorial weekend.  Watch for volunteer opportunities as this event evolves.

      Our newly formed race team got off to a great start with a sponsored race in Boonsboro in March.  The race made money and was praised by the participants for the hot showers which were available.  Leadership for the team is changing to a joint effort with male/female coaches.  Watch the Website for more information as we reorganize and prepare for winter training.  Participation is open to all members and doesn’t even require actual racing.  Consider improving your cycling skills by attending the training sessions and learning the secrets of the “super” fast.

      As our traditional cycling season ends on October 31, I want to thank the executive committee, board of directors, chairmen and coordinators, as well as the many other volunteer members for all of the time, energy, and money contributed to promote this great activity in our area.  Our club is over 500 strong making a difference through education, facilities and opportunities to promote health through safe cycling.  It takes a lot of people and effort to change a culture. Thanks for your commitment! Check out our membership benefits listed on the website under “What’s in it for me?”

      We are planning the Annual Banquet and General meeting for the middle of January 2009. Be looking for a post card in December with the actual date and details. Agenda items to be considered for the 2009 will be: evaluating the free membership pilot program, voting on mileage issues, considering a membership incentive package, introducing the new executive board, and hearing reports from the various committees. We will also have fun looking back over the 2008 season, celebrating the awards given, and enjoying a delicious meal together. Hope you can come; it won’t be as much fun without you!

      It has been a privilege to serve you this year.  I have enjoyed working with you to further a sport I love, build relationships, and of course, ride my bike in the beautiful Bluegrass. 

      We will be taking nominations for Board positions the month of November.  Consider running for a position or nominating someone that would have an interest in the administrative part of the Bluegrass Cycling Club. Be sure to ask your nominee first to make sure their schedule allows for this added activity. Send them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   with “nominations” on the subject line. We will compile the nominations and send ballots for voting the beginning of December.

Lots happening!  Keep an eye on the website for details of all the upcoming activities.

See you on the Road,

Peggy Littrell