10th annual Watershed Ride gearing up for Oct. 2
In celebration of the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride’s 10th anniversary, cyclists will have the option of taking a 100-mile route that traverses the entire bay, from Sakonnet Point, Rhode Island to Woods Hole on Cape Cod. The event takes place on Oct. 2 and the route will wind through Wareham on that day.
In addition to the 100-mile “century” route, riders may also try out a new, 10-mile family ride entirely on the Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth.
Event Manager Deborah Hood said the routes were added to attract more people, serious cyclists and leisurely peddlers alike, for the anniversary. No matter what route is chosen, she said riders would be able to enjoy Buzzards Bay.
“It’s a beautiful, dramatic coastal area,” said Hood.
It’s not too late to register. Cyclists ages 12 and over may sign up. Many riders also form teams with their friends and families. The ride includes a lunch stop, water and snack stations along the course and on-the-road repair technicians available on call. Each rider raises a minimum of $300, but many participants set higher goals. All funds go directly to programs and projects that protect land and clean water around Buzzards Bay.
Hood said registrations will be accepted until Friday at 5 p.m. online, and on Saturday in person at the coalition’s New Bedford office, located at 114 Front St., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Watershed Ride registration fee is $50 for adults and children 12 and older. Registration includes food and beverages at the start line, lunch, two water stops with beverages and snacks, a dinner party at the finish line for riders and a guest, an event T-shirt, a massage at the finish line and on-the-road support. Hood said last year the coalition raised $90,000, which supported the nonprofits science, advocacy and educational initiatives. This year, she estimates that the group would raise between $100,000 and $120,000. For more information or to register, visit www.savebuzzardsbay.org/ride.