Tour de Tribury XV
September 29, 2007
The Southbury Interfaith Social Concerns Committee again sponsored this year's Tour de Tribury Bike and Walk-A-Thon, the fifteenth year for the Tour. As before, the proceeds from the event went to support the Southbury Fuel Bank, an organization that helps residents of Southbury maintain their homes warm throughout the winter season. Our thanks go out to the sponsors of the event, the riders, and the Knights of Columbus for their world famous Hot Dogs, and the many volunteers who made the day a success. These pictures show but a small part of the day. The day was made for a bike ride. Cool, bright sun, just perfect.
Paperwork, paperwork. It just never ends. Registration first, then ride. The always hardy 50+ milers are there in force, signing on the dotted line, stretching those muscles, getting ready for a great ride through the beautiful fall countryside.
Where would we be without the help of the young folk in the parish, ready to help from early morn to the last rider. Thanks to all those who helped at the desk, and those who rode.
The fall color is almost ready to peak. Just a wonderful day for a ride in the country.
Here are a couple of the folk who made the 50+ miles through Southbury, Woodbury, and points north. They look like they're ready for anything.
Dave made the trip from Liverpool, NY, via the Sub Base in Groton to be here. After biking for 50+ miles, he gets to finish his school, and report to his ship.
"And as a final reminder, don't let this vehicle pass you on the road". The pick up vehicle for the 50+ miles, ready to help any rider in need. Always good to know that someone is out there looking out for your well being.
Pastor Scott Nessel of St. James Lutheran Church blessed us with his presence this day. He was able to offer a prayer and blessing for all the riders and walkers as they left. In between, he had a chance to relax and have a few words with Matt Z., Sacred Heart Youth Minister.
No sooner do the 50 mile folk disappear over the hill, than the 25 mile riders start to arrive. Looks like the family that bikes together stays together.
And Pastor Nessel was ready to send them on their way with a prayer for their safety, and thanks for all their efforts.
And they're off. 25 miles of good times, good scenery, and good companionship.
And good water. Here one of our faithful committee members, with daughter and dog for support, stands by at the first water stop on the 25 mile route. Ready to dispense water, and a kind word thanking all who stop by.
Meanwhile, in the kitchen, members of the Knights of Columbus are getting ready to serve the crowd when they arrive back from their many and varied trips. One thing sure, they all arrive hungry. But the Knights will be ready.
For our shortest ride, but a nice ride along the river, Pastor Nessel sends the riders along with a good word, prayers for their safety, and many thanks for helping their neighbors.
There they go. Quite a crowd for the 10 mile ride. All ages, from moms and dads to youngsters. All out for a good cause.
The best laid plans oft go awry. There is no way to guarantee that the equipment will function perfectly. But at least it happened in the parking lot, was quickly repaired, and all involved were soon on their way to finish the ride.
Pastor Nessel relaxes for a few minutes to speak with Jeanne K. from Sacred Heart. The Pastor was impressed with the efforts of the community to reach out to those in need. Pastor Nessel also impressed everyone who had a chance to speak with him. A welcome addition to the faith community of Southbury.
Could I have your attention please! Joe gathers the walkers around to get them ready to leave. Jeanne K. led the way, with a good size crowd walking down the sidewalks of Southbury to the town garage and back. A pleasant 2.2 mile walk.
Fr. Joe, our pastor, greets Pastor Nessel. They already knew each other, but it's always nice to see a familiar face, and be made welcome.
Whew, what a day. These ladies, members of the Columbiettes, were at the water stop in Morris, providing water, cookies, and a chance to relax for our 50 mile riders. It's a long drive, imagine doing it on a bike.
With everyone back, it's time for lunch. Just in time, the hot dogs are ready, all the other food is put out, and the Knights of Columbus once again come through to help the Tour. Great group of guys.
Step right up. Plenty for everyone. Take all you want. Surely you must be hungry after all that riding and walking.
After lunch, it's time for the door prizes to be awarded. Everyone gathered around as Joe pulled the names of the winners. But really everyone is a winner. The riders and walkers, because they are able to help a neighbor in need. And the Southbury Fuel Bank, which will have some more money to help keep everyone warm this winter.
And so another year closes on the Tour de Tribury. And next week, the planning committee will meet for one last time to review the program, and start planning for next year. If you would be interested in helping plan this wonderful event, drop an e-mail. See You Then!!
Special Thanks to Lou Alongi for providing many of the photos in this story.