MS150 2006 Cruisin’ To The Coast! Fresno to Monterey!

Wait a minute! What is this you are asking yourself, an update so soon, he just completed the Bike To The Beach? Well my friends, in typical fashion, I opened my big mouth and once again something I’ve asked about has become a reality. On May 13th we will begin riding from just outside Fresno on our way to Monterey and the coast. This will be the first time the MS Society has embarked on a “destination” ride. It is my hope this is the first of many for years to come.

This past Saturday we held a trial ride through what is considered the hardest part of the route. We began riding from the Panoche Inn in Paicines, CA to the San Benito County Fairgrounds in Tres Pinos. I must say, for the toughest part of the route I am pleased to say it is not much at all and everyone should be able to make the hills. The Texas hills were more difficult in my opinion. So we set out in the cold temps and began the trek. The winding road was great to ride on. The inclines were gradual and you really did not have a dramatic feel that you were heading up hill. The down hills were great and you could not beat the scenery. My computer, which has been on the fritz since 30 miles out of Corpus, maxed out at 50 degrees and on one downhill 32 MPH. This section of the ride took about two hours on a windless day. We finished at the overnight spot and had lunch. The San Benito County Fairgrounds are going to be great! A wide open area for tents, indoor dining facilities, shower facilities, and even a permanent stage.

Here in Fresno, CBS47 and our Clear Channel Radio stations are taking the lead as the media partners. I’m working hard to recruit riders for our first Fresno Clear Channel Cycling Team. As with all events, it is going to take us time to build, but I am certain this will become the premiere MS 150 in the state. I’m going to begin fundraising soon, but my real focus is going to be on getting the word out and helping to draw riders to the event. As the days get warmer and the riding more frequent, I’ll keep you posted on our progress. Until then, I’m thawing my feet, and riding indoors for the next few weeks.