Houston-area cyclists who've ridden the Pedal Thru the Pines in past years can be forgiven for wondering if there are any pines left. After all, the area around Bastrop State Park was devastated by wildfires just six months ago, over Labor Day Weekend. But to the ride's organizers the phrase "rain or shine" has been replaced by "fires or no fires"! With that in mind, the 10th Annual Pedal Through the Pines is ready to roll - and March 3, 2012, is the scheduled day.
Riders in past BP MS150s will remember the Lost Pines area, to the right between Smithville and Bastrop on the second day of the ride. Some adventurous types take the scenic route through Buescher and Bastrop State Parks for the shade and the pine-scented air. If the MS150 is in your plans this year (or even if it's not), here's a ride that offers a chance to see both the fire's devastation and nature's determination: already, greenery is poking through.
Participants can choose among newly-laid out 22-, 40- and 70-mile routes, all of which start at Riverbend Park in Smithville. Expect fully-staffed and well-stocked rest stops, full SAG and mechanical support, and friendly course marshals. The ride is a benefit for Bastrop's Family Crisis Center.
Register by mail or on-line for $40 per rider until February 22. After that date, you can register on-line for $45 or by walkup at packet pickup sites or the start line (beginning at 6:30 AM) for the same price. Packet pickup in Houston is at Northwest Cyclery (17458 NW Freeway at Jones Road) on February 29, 11:00AM to 6:30 PM. All riders, all courses, start at 9:00 on Saturday, March 3, regardless of course distance.
Details to note: Houston-area cyclists are reminded that there are these things called "hills" in the area, some steep: you've been warned. Pre-registered riders are guaranteed a ride T-shirt. Helmets are required and headphones are prohibited (like that stops some people!). Pedal Thru the Pines is a BP MS-150 recommended training ride.
Getting there: From Houston, take I-10 west to TX 71 near Columbus at Exit 695. Head west on TX 71 approximately 45 miles to Riverbend Park. The start is about 120 miles from downtown Houston.
If you're not up to the hills, the Baytown Family YMCA Gator Ride takes place the same day
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