In late winter of 2005, I brought a half-thought out idea to Tim Lee and Donna Brogan to start a bike ride around town.

The intention would be to have a true community event, not for a particular cause or charity, but for the sole purpose of getting families and neighbors out together for fun, fitness and just knowing Viroqua in a little different way.

That May, the audaciously titled "First Annual Viroqua Community Bike Ride" took place (with vital sponsoring from Vernon Memorial Healthcare and the Viroqua Rotary Club), 63 hearty souls fought through the rain to the finish, and the tradition was on its way.

Eventually, Pete and Alycann Taylor with Vernon Trails joined on with Tim and Beth Lee as well as myself to put together the next rides.

Last Saturday, May 2, brought the fifth annual bike ride to Viroqua. Blessed by wonderful weather, this year’s ride had over 250 participants! With 12 sponsors, most of the participants received free T-shirts, a part of the tradition we want to continue.

The first Saturday in May has become a great day for Viroqua events, with the farmers market also opening that day.

Perhaps there are other "half-thought" ideas that will bring even more richness to our community. Thanks to all the riders, please join us next year on the sixth annual ride.

Dean Saner

Viroqua

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