Bike race enjoys more success during 14th year

It was another exciting weekend of racing when the Highland Rim Cycling Classic took place in Warren County May 7-8. It was the 14th consecutive year the two-day event has been held here.

But not only is it a fun-filled weekend of bike-pedaling exhilaration, it’s also a major fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce and, according to president Lea Chrisawn. She called the bike race one of the greatest marketing tools the county has to offer throughout the year.

As a testimonial, one vendor called to request permission to sell a specialty food at the event. Apparently her son had begun racing and his team told him, “You have to go to McMinnville. It’s one of the best races all season.”

Chrisawn went on to point out that the estimated $300,000 coming in this year is just the tip of the iceberg.

“In 14 years, just think how much money these bicyclists have been bringing in year after year after year,” she said. “It’s just amazing how much this has done for the community.”

Many of the hundreds of cyclists stay in area hotels. They spend money on Gatorade and bottled water at area stores. They eat in our restaurants and then pedal their way out of town.

The race wouldn’t take place if it wasn’t for the efforts of dozens and dozens of volunteers who work to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The cyclists frequently comment that Warren County is one of their favorite places to race — both for the rugged course up Harrison Ferry Mountain and for the healthy dose of Southern hospitality.