We had a great turnout for our latest ride leader training session. I think this was the largest group in the four years I have conducted these sessions. Several existing leaders along with some new leaders and a few wanting to get involved attended. Attendees were Steve Barbour, Rick and Myra Grove, Tom and Debbie Davis, Chuck Luzader, Ben Furtaw, Del Allen, Daniel Magestro, Bob Allen, Joanna Pallos, Nancy Betz, Amanda Orr and Jamison Roberts.

During our discussion on trip maps, Dan Magestro and Jamison Roberts submitted some suggestions and agreed to serve on a committee to standardize our suggested map guidelines. Thanks for getting involved! I also want to thank Ben Stock, the Service Manager at the TREK Store, for presenting the training sessions on General Bike Maintenance and Safety and Pre-ride Equipment Checks.

There was a smaller than usual group this year at our annual March Bicycling meeting. I'm sure the good weather that day sent many to the roads rather than an indoor meeting. We had a great meeting with some good discussions on proper ride clothing and helmet use. We agreed as a group that I should be shopping for a replacement for my well-used helmet, which was used as a training aid. Again, thanks to Ben Stock who led our discussion on selecting bike ride equipment as well as preparing for and repairing flats.

I am seeing more and more written about the new Adventure Cycling's Underground Railway route. I have suggested this route to several riders who contacted Columbus Outdoor Pursuits for suggestions on across Ohio options. The Ohio portion of this route is planned as the basis for the XOBA route in 2008. Plan to join us for the July, 2008 edition of XOBA. The 2007 edition of XOBA (The Lighthouse Maritime Heritage Tour) has filled up early and has a waiting list.

Just a reminder, we still are searching for that Bicycling Activities Leader to assume my position on August 1st as I resign to pursue other activities in my now 12-year-old retirement.

E-mail me at bicycling (AT) outdoor-pursuits or call 614/877-3085 with your comments or suggestions.