Pedaling for Preservation: Inside the Gears of Bike Around the Bay

Imagine for a moment: Your wheels hum along the tarmac, salt-laced wind brushes your cheeks, and scenic vistas of Galveston Bay unfold before you. Now, hold that picture and add the perfect seasoning—a sense of purpose. You’re not just absorbing nature; you’re helping to save it. Welcome to Bike Around the Bay, a ride like no other.

Why You Should be a Part of This

For those not in the know, Bike Around the Bay isn’t your average cycling event. It’s a two-day, fully-supported ride that features the natural splendors of Galveston Bay, the largest estuary on the Texas Gulf Coast. The wind and bridges offer challenges while fellow riders offer camaraderie. All of this with lunch on both days, and dinner on Saturday night included in your registration. Sweet deal, right?

Not convinced yet? How about finisher medals for all riders? Yeah, that’s new this year.

What’s even better, all proceeds go towards the Galveston Bay Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to preserving this vital ecological treasure for future generations. Think of it as pedaling for preservation, a tagline that perfectly captures the event’s essence.

The Journey So Far

The ride has a rich history dating back to 2007, originating from a suggestion by a Galveston Bay Foundation board member. Why? To educate people about the Bay’s importance and raise funds for its protection and conservation. And they’ve been quite successful at that, spearheading various projects and programs year after year.

All the Little Details

If you’re someone who likes to know where you’re going (most of us do, right?), you’ll be happy to know that downloadable GPX and TCX files for on-bike devices are readily available. Here are a few to get you started:

A start map with details on registration points, parking, and other amenities will be released closer to the event.

The Personal Touch

The person steering the wheel (or handlebar, in this case) behind this great initiative is the ride director. He’s not just organizing; he’s riding too, for the 8th year on his Trek Emonda. And let me tell you, there’s a team behind this, with 14 SAG vans supporting Day One and two dedicated ones for Bike Around the Island.

When asked about the most rewarding part of his years of involvement, the director gushed about the look of utter exhilaration on a first-time rider’s face when they cross the finish line. And let’s not forget the rider who proposed at the top of the Fred Hartman Bridge. If that’s not unforgettable, what is?

David Letterman Style Top 10 Reasons to Join

Post-ride party at Moody Gardens—where else can you unwind with hundreds of fellow cyclists?
That euphoric ride under the finishing arch on both days.
Cruising the seawall on Galveston Island.
Spotting dolphins from the ferry (no, seriously!).
Conquering the Fred Hartman Bridge—it’s an achievement, folks.
The endless open space views for the first 50 miles.
Lunch at Sylvan Beach on Day Two—you had me at burgers.
The thrill of crossing the Causeway Bridge at the start of Day Two.
Riding along the Texas City Levee—breathtaking!
Celebrating your victory with your new ride-or-die pals.

In Closing

This year’s Bike Around the Bay offers something for every kind of rider out there. For more information or to register, head to www.bikearoundthebay.org.

So, what are you waiting for? Put your pedals to the metal and your dollars to good use. Remember, you’re not just riding; you’re pedaling for preservation. See you at the Bay!