For many it seemed to be a typical Saturday evening in the City of Venice, the streets were clearing, the sun was setting and the mood was relaxed. Then, out of nowhere, dozens of bicycles buzzed by. Road bikes, Mountain bikes and even a BMX bike casually cruised down the side streets filling the Island with a whole new crowd of smiling faces.
Who was this mysterious peloton? They were the second gathering of the SCORR (Sarasota County Off Road Riders) pub ride which included the owners and employees of Real Bikes Venice, Real Bikes Englewood and Bicycles International Venice.
Eric Claussen displaying the new bike trail signs |
SCORR is the group which recently crafted 4 miles worth of Mountain bike trails in the Carlton Reserve park. This particular pub crawl was put together to raise money to pay for the signs that will be posted on those trails. SCORR volunteers, wearing the camouflage shirts, made sure no rider was left behind as 60 cyclists traversed the streets at dusk with a good time in mind.
After meandering through a few quiet lanes they settled on the first stop near Venice beach. Here the riders dismounted. They ate watermelon while having a few drinks and watching the sun set over the gulf. SCORR rider Randy Hurley encouraged some smiles when he asked trivia questions for his bag full of prizes. In short time the riders were remounting to continue their journey in the fading light of early evening.
Now emblazoned with a hundred lights the group moved on to the next stop at a SCORR rider's house where a tiki bar known as the "Flying Pig" had been set up in the front yard. More libations and snacks added a nice salty balance to the jovial atmosphere.
With caution and giggles at a premium, the cyclists returned downtown where they visited the elegant "La Dolce Vita." There a live musician fed off the huge crowd as more prizes were given away outside. At every location passers by asked about the swarm and loved the idea, hoping to join up next time.
The event ended around midnight with some flavored ales and hilarious karaoke performances at the "Tap & Cork." The evening was a chance for bike lovers to meet each other and share a fun experience. The crowd slowly disbanded, many with pained cheeks from so much laughter.
Anyone who might want to join in the fun, Check FB for future SCORR events:
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