You don’t have to be a bicycle rider to enjoy this year’s Ride to Remember bike ride taking place in Bluffton on Saturday, July 16.

Several events in the BFR-Community Swimming Pool area are open to the public.

VOLUNTEERS WELCOME TO ASSIST THIS YEAR'S EVENT

“We are trying to expand the Ride to Remember to involve as much of the community as we can,” said Dick Ramseyer of the Bluffton Lions Club Foundation, who is the event’s main sponsor.

Last year’s first-ever ride attracted 101 bicycle riders. The planning group in this year’s event hopes to double that figure and grow it each year to bring more bicyclists to Bluffton.

While an 8 a.m. July 16 mass start gets bikers on the road this year, plans are in place during an 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. time frame where non-bikers may participate.

In creating a community picnic and carnival atmosphere, The Dough Hook will grill brats, hamburgers and hotdogs for sale to the public and bikers.

In addition Jim Boedicker, who frequently performs at the Bluffton Farmers’ Market, will perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are looking for additional groups to join in the activities as bikers return from their rides,” said Ramseyer.

Those groups should contact Fred Steiner at [email protected] to see how they can participate.

Bike ride details
For complete details on the bike ride visit www.ridetoremember.net. The website includes registration information, maps of the various routes, photos and comments from last year’s and other details.

Several routes are options for bikers including 2,10, 36, 64 and 100 miles.

Registration through June 30 is:
• $20 for individuals ($25 July 1 and after)
• $15 2nd family member ($20 July 1 and after)
• $5 for each additional family member ($10 July 1 and after)

Registration includes:
Lightweight bag/backpack (for the first 200 registered riders)
Snacks at rest stops and finish
Roaming vehicles for repairs and rider pick-up
Pass for swimming pool after ride
Shower at Bluffton Family Recreation
Coupon for up to $8 off at local eateries after ride

There are several ways to register for the ride:
• Online at www.ridetoremember.net
• Contact Bluffton Family Recreation, 2015 Snider Road, Bluffton
• Mail check payable to Bluffton Family Recreation, 215 Snider Road, Bluffton, OH 45817. Include name, address, e-mail, phone number and intended ride loop.

This year’s planning committee chairs includes:
• Raymond and Liz Harner with Mitch Kingsley – ride support team
• Mike Meyer – route team
• Fred Steiner – publicity
• Darrell Groman – rest stop team
• Dick Ramseyer – traffic support team
• Ryan Brauen and Jenny Pilarowski – registration and website team
• Jim Walter – logistics and authorization team

Want to volunteer?
Volunteers to assist in any of these areas are welcome. Contact Ramseyer at
[email protected] for details.