Published: June 04, 2009 10:11 pm      

One pedal at a time

DUNCAN — In its 31st year, the Oklahoma FreeWheel bicycle tour looks to once again offer an inspiring view of the state to those who wish to make the journey.

Starting in Duncan on Saturday and ending June 13 in Kiowa, Kan., the ride will have a maximum of 1,000 participants and will span 416 miles.

Registration and packets will still be available on Saturday, at the FreeWheel Information Canopy, in the north Simmons Center parking lot. Registration lasts from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and is open to all ages.

The registration fee varies depending on age and desired length of ride. It includes route maps for each day, route security provided by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, a shower truck, at least two fruit and drink stops per day, camping space in each host community and much more.

Many entrants enjoy the event for different reasons; from those who simply love cycling, to those who wish to push themselves in an ambitious adventure. There are also those who deeply value the connections made during the excursion.

“The bikers really enjoy the camaraderie that they build with one another,” said Cova Williams, museum coordinator for the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. “We look forward to hosting it in Duncan this year.”

Susan Camp, director of Cameron University — Duncan, has ridden with her husband, Mark, in the event for 11 years.

“My very first year, I was just proud to ride the entire FreeWheel and make every day’s ride without the SAG wagon. That was my first memory,” Camp said.

She agreed that the friendships made during the ride are an integral part of the experience for her.

“Even though you only see these people once a year, you’d be happy to invite them to your home. Its that kind of relationship,” she said.

Pagon Ballard, an attendee of FreeWheel for 23 years, also agreed that making connections with people, even if you meet them only once a year, is the most rewarding part.

“It’s definitely a family-oriented event,” said Ballard.

“I see people from surprisingly young all the way to their late 70s. It’s also a great stress reliever ... a stop-and-smell-the-roses kind of ride, not a race.”

“My most memorable year was when nobody from Duncan came but me; I met new people, and they were nice people from all across the state. That’s what it’s all about for me,” he said.

Opening ceremonies will start at 7 p.m Saturday. There will be a variety of food vendors from tribal organizations for the opening ceremonies in front of the Simmons Center. There will also be a free concert open to the public starting at 5 p.m. in front of the Heritage Center, featuring Ricky Boise, to be followed by Steve Ribnicar.

The riders will head out at 6:30 a.m Sunday.