Although the April weather varied throughout the month, the weekends were super for riding. Bobbi Bedinghaus reported some 350 riders on WOODSTOCK, our first tour of the season. Because of other commitments, I had to miss Bobbi's ride for the first time in several years. Super job Bobbi. The following weekend was also well attended. Bob Allen and David Hoodin had 192 registered riders for SPOT out of Groveport. Some headwinds helped my training efforts, since I had little time on the bike prior to this ride. I always enjoy this ride since it is not overly difficult on me early in the year. Great ride Bob and David. Including me, MOC had a total of 228 riders this year. Woody Barry did an outstanding job of planning this ride and marking the route. I enjoy riding in the Delaware area. I don't often ride there since it is an hour's drive from my Southwestern Franklin County home. Thanks to Woody and the Break Away Cycling Shop's efforts in another super MOC.

Like me, you may feel that $3 per gallon gas might limit how far you can travel for a tour. Our tour and ride schedule throughout the year provides starting points all over the Central Ohio area. Plan to attend a ride in your area.

I can't say enough about our tour leaders and other volunteers who make our rides possible. In particular, I want to recognize Roy Burnham for recently stepping forward to assume leadership of the scheduling for the Sunday Canal Winchester ride. Thanks to Roy's efforts, this ride will continue from Ric Noland's Cyclist Connection in Canal Winchester. Thanks also to Ric for help in start point logistics. Roy also produces a blog on local biking. Check out his "current news and ramblings from a Central Ohio Cyclist" notes at http://bikerdudesworld.blogspot.com.

You may also want to check out the Central Ohio Bicycling Advocacy Coalition's website for an additional look at Central Ohio biking information. www.cobac.org/ COBAC covers many bicycle advocacy issues outside of our recreational bicycling efforts.

Join our team; I am still looking for my replacement as Bicycling Activities Leader and also for a Bicycle Tour Coordinator position. Call me for job descriptions and how you can help.

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