Condor Classic returns for a second set of rides in October
Condor Classic organizers were pleased with the turnout of about
500 bicyclists at the inaugural event in 2008. They’re hoping to
expand on that number in October at the second annual set of rides,
but they’re also emphasizing a push to get more locals
involved.
Overall, they hope to expand on the initial burst of enthusiasm
surrounding an experience that capitalizes on San Benito County’s
unique landscapes.
Condor Classic returns for a second set of rides in October
Condor Classic organizers were pleased with the turnout of about 500 bicyclists at the inaugural event in 2008. They’re hoping to expand on that number in October at the second annual set of rides, but they’re also emphasizing a push to get more locals involved.
Overall, they hope to expand on the initial burst of enthusiasm surrounding an experience that capitalizes on San Benito County’s unique landscapes.
“We’d really like to grow it into being something for this county as well,” said Kathy Schipper, the Condor Classic chairwoman. “Most of our riders come from the Bay Area, which is part of our goal as well, because it is a tourism event. We’d love it if more families would see it as an option, too.”
Its primary goal, though, remains a potential to draw residents to San Benito County for the Oct. 10 event, and perhaps entice them to return at some point, too.
Founded and run by the San Benito County Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism Committee, the Condor Classic offers five ride options – up from four in 2008 – and its proceeds benefit the Pinnacles Partnership.
The options include rides of 100, 60, 40, 20 and 10 miles. The 100-mile trek is to Pinnacles National Monument. The 10-mile ride is the family-friendly route that heads through farms and orchards.
Another big change this year is the starting and ending point, which is Windhaven Ranch in San Juan Bautista.
Schipper said organizers laid out the rides this year to “show off more of the county.”
Brian Lucas, owner of Off the Chain bike shop and route co-chairman, noted how the Condor Classic can even take riders through Aromas “to incorporate another part of San Benito County which is completely different.”
“It has a beauty of its own over there,” he said.
Organizers were excited about the turnout last year considering they had planned for around 250 people. They hope for more than 500 riders this year, and Lucas pointed out how there will be a larger area to accommodate crowds at the finish line and for the post-ride barbecue.
“The first year, we didn’t really know what to expect,” he said. “We learned a lot from the first year.”
Volunteers needed
The Condor Classic has about 50 volunteers so far, and organizers need around 25 more before the event, Schipper said. “They help with registration and with check-in and with the pit stops,” she said. She also noted how those pit stops, or rest stops, can be sponsored this year by organizations. Volunteers also are invited to the BBQ lunch at the Windhaven Ranch on event day, and there will be a volunteer thank you dinner as well.
For more information on volunteering, call Sheila Dundon at 726-7237. For more information on the event, go to www.condorclassic.com.
