Page 72 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2019

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72 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • August 2019 FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
GEARING UP
Two-wheel travel is on the rise in South Mississippi as more cyclists take to the road. Along with the pleasure and fitness benefits for cyclists are safety concerns that involve them and four-wheel traffic.
County. “I have no doubt that cycling is becoming more popular,” he said. “I ride five out of seven days and I see bunches of other riders.”
when up to 400 riders show up. The ride begins at the 12-mile level, then 25, 40, 56 or 62 miles right up to 100 miles for the most stalwart riders.
The Gulf Coast Bicycle Club is
300 members strong and has others who participate in rides. With numerous official rides throughout the year, club president Eddie Holmes says there are always risks and precautions. “Whether a rider is alone or on a group ride, they should have knowledge of the rules of the road,” he said. “Cyclists follow the same rules as cars and ride on the same side of the road. I see people riding the wrong way all the time.”
The Bay Rollers are joined by riders from Pass Christian, Waveland and Slidell to name a few towns. They have group rides twice a week when about six riders participate. Every month they have a bigger ride of 20 miles, trying to keep their pace at 17 miles per hour.
RULES OF THE ROAD
Holmes points out that cyclists should have the right equipment, including helmets, eye protection and fingerless gloves. In case of a fall, the gloves will take the brunt of the hit. He also encourages riders to get involved with groups. “There’s always safety in numbers and you will learn safety rules.”
The Bay Rollers were successful in getting signs about the three-feet law installed along Beach Boulevard. The Heritage Trails Partnership of the Gulf Coast paid for the signs and the county installed them.
Gulf Coast Bicycle Club
Myron Lebat leads the Bay Rollers in Bay St. Louis. Most of their members participate in the Gulf Coast Club rides as well as local rides in Hancock
www.gulfcoastbicycleclub.com
story by Lynn Lofton
Holmes and Lebat stress safety, especially the state’s three-feet law by which motorists are required
to keep three feet between their vehicles and bicycles. The clubs are mounting campaigns to get the word out with advertising and signage. “We’re working on getting sponsors to do some television ads and urging members to talk to their town officials,” Holmes said.
as automobiles
• Cyclists required to wear
One of the Gulf Coast Bicycle Club’s main events, the Southern Magnolia 100, will happen on September 22
Bay Rollers Cycling Club
• Motorists must allow three feet between vehicles and bicycles
• Cyclists ride in same direction
helmets
• Bicycles must have a front light,
day and night
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