Georgia Rides to the Capitol - 2008

In March of each year, hundreds of cyclists from around metro Atlanta converge on the Capitol to show legislators our numbers.



And they were turning into bicycles, all across our nation -- from Joni Mitchell's early version of Woodstock

It was just one big celebration.

Lots of kids were riding this year. I wish I had gotten more photos of them.

The Emory T-Shirts (Blue with a white dot "Why Not?") were out in strong numbers. I think the Georgia Tech guys need to respond.

I had joined the Decatur group that approached from the East. When we got to the intersection of Edgewood and Courtland, we waited for the group from the north and then merged into a massive surge. I felt like I was rushing onto the field after a big win.

My co-worker who rides recreationally joined us for the trip in today. I also spoke with another neighbor who was riding for the first time. The emotional support and the enthusiasm for what can happen when cyclists take to the roads may win over a few more commuters.

All of this was great, but my best part was when we rode past the playground full of adoring fans (kids) at the Atlanta School in Inman Park. Last year I overheard a couple of boys talking to each other: "It's a bicycle race".

"No", said the second kid as he looked straight at me, "it's not a race."

This year I passed the school and my ego was bouyed instead of deflated.

Commute Summary

Round Trip Distance: 20.0
Number of Cyclists seen: billions (ok, only 1500 or so)
In-bound Route: Georgia Rides to the Capitol
Out-bound Route: Emory via Clifton
Weather: Missed forecast. We were supposed to have sunny skies and warm temps, but it was cloudy and cool (but not so cool I couldn't wear shorts though).