Thousands already signed up for Buffalo Bicycle Classic
It’s 7 a.m. and thousands of bicyclists are in line, waiting in anticipation. Hearts are racing, and riders glance side-to-side examining their eager companions.
Then a loud gunshot rings and sets in motion the fifth annual Buffalo Bicycle Classic.
Todd Gleeson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, created the Buffalo Bicycle Classic five years ago as a way to raise scholarship money for students.
“In the original business plan, Todd estimated that there would be no profit for three years, but the event was so popular the first year, not only did we break even, we made a profit,” said Cynthia Nelson, coordinator for the event.
Since then, the ride has raised over $500,000 in scholarships for arts and science scholars – the largest single source of scholarships for the College of Arts and Sciences. Last year alone, the event raised $200,000.
This year is unique because an anonymous donor has promised to match all donations up to $100,000, or basically doubling the total amount of pledges.
Riders can choose from five different courses: 35, 50, 70 and 100-mile courses through northern Boulder and southern Larimer counties for skilled riders. Each route is equipped with several aid stations with restrooms, food and bike repair posts.
For those who are less skilled or younger, the 14-mile “Little Buffalo” route winds through Boulder’s many bike paths and back roads. Along with this route, a safety training program is offered about how to be safe and smart about riding bikes.
So far, 2,100 riders out of a maximum 2,500 have signed up to attend the ride, a number event coordinators are expecting to reach. Beyond this, 500 volunteers are on board to aid riders along their trek.
“It’s amazing how much it has grown in five years,” Nelson said. “I’m really excited that we may reach capacity for the number of riders.”
The Buffalo Bicycle Classic will take place at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 9.
More information for the event, including photos from last year, maps and merchandise, click here.
Contact Staff Writer Devon Taylor at devon.taylor@thecampuspress.com
