Cyclists rode into Milledgeville on Tuesday for an overnight rest on the Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG).
BRAG is an annual event for cyclists to embark on a weeklong journey, with rest stops along the way, to enrich themselves through Georgia's culture and local delights. BRAG is not a race, but rather an event designed to promote fellowship between cyclists. According to the BRAG website, routes change each year and “are designed to offer stunning views of Georgia's picturesque countryside and take riders through some of the most welcoming and hospitable towns in the state.”
The journey began June 1 at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta and on day 1, cyclists set out for Oxford College in Newton County. Averaging about 55 miles or more a day, the path was set ahead for Daffin Park in Savannah as their final destination.
On June 3, cyclists left Social Circle and rode 66 miles to reach Milledgeville and stay for layover. The route passed through Eatonton and approached Milledgeville on Dennis Station and Twin Bridges Roads before connecting to Highway 212. Cyclists had the option to stay at Walter B. Williams Jr. Park or in local hotels.
“Milledgeville's unique blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty make it a distinctive and appealing destination for residents and visitors alike,” states the BRAG website.
At a board of commissioners meeting earlier this year when the park was being approved for their stay, County Manager Carlos Tobar spoke on the benefit of the event due to its economic impact. During layover, cyclists are encouraged to relax and indulge in the history, sights, and cuisine of Milledgeville. Family or friends traveling alongside these cyclists by car were also able to enjoy the enrichment Baldwin County has to offer.
In addition, the city provided a 38-mile bike route mapped out for participants who wanted to spend their rest day on their bike. The mapped area allowed cyclists to explore a broader scope of Milledgeville by visiting the Coopers area, the Central State Hospital grounds, and more.
Bikers set off Thursday morning to reach East Georgia State College in Swainsboro. As the longest portion of the ride, cyclists rode 81 miles with four rest stops in between through Sandersville and Wrightsville to reach Swainsboro. Then to complete the ride, bikers set off June 7 to reach Georgia Southern University in Statesboro and finally reached Savannah on June 8.