Updates!

Thu, 18 May 2006 07:27:00 -0700

With Bike! Charlotte fading into memory (I hope that each and every one of you took time to enjoy many of the festivities), we have several great projects currently underway and several on the horizon. But first off, congrats to Neal Boyd for all of his efforts to make Bike! Charlotte the success that it was. Somehow Neal sandwiched the event between getting married and the honeymoon that he’s now enjoying in Mexico, with his beautiful bride Janet. Thanks as always Neal for your contributions to the cycling scene in the Metro-Charlotte area.

In Neal’s absence, tireless volunteers Paul Bellin and Doug Satterwhite took the reins of last night’s first stop at North Meck Park for the Summer Race Series. Over 140 riders participated, and accord to Paul, that sets a record for attendance at any of the races! The frog in a blender effect was definitely there, but other that a few isolated incidents, having 140+ racers on the 3.5 mile course came off really well. Thanks for the patience of all! Next week is an off week, before moving on to Catawba on May 31.

Good things are happening at the USNWC (Catawba) as we are on the verge of starting to move dirt and get the re-connect started. Trail Coordinator Frankie Pietras has spent countless hours and has the blessing of Jeff Wise on the new corridors. Look for more info soon.

Jerry Adams has been spending time at our newest park, Sherman Branch in southeastern Mecklenburg County. Jerry and his crew are hopeful of opening at least an initial section of the trail in the not too distant future. With over 200 cares, we should have a cool playground in the offing.

Our Recreation Trails Program (RTP) grant for construction of trails at Mount Holly has cleared the first major hurdle and we’re hopeful of hearing more about the funds in the near future. Former Trailblazer President Jeff Smith and Bryan Hines have been spearheading this effort and deserve much appreciation for the time spent on this important project.

The Meck Co P&R Committee will be voting on a proposed trail system at Jetton Park at their June 13^th meeting. The Jetton property (19 acres in Cornelius) could prove to be the first handicapped accessible mountain bike trails in the area or anywhere for that matter!

In closing, I encourage any of you readers that may be on the fence to join the Trailblazers, Dirt Divas or PASA, as together as clubs we are much stronger and can continue to request access for additional parks land for our favorite sport. Each member is vital to the cause, your support is appreciated!

President's Blog

Updates!