Cycling community in Fresno offers enjoyable activities and advocacy for cyclists
In the heart of California, the Fresno Cycling Club (FCC) is gearing up for another exciting season of pedal-powered adventures. With a rich history spanning over three decades, the non-profit organisation continues to promote safe and legal bicycling for everyone.
At the helm of the FCC is Dennis Ball, an avid bike rider for over 50 years and a member of the club for about 30 years. Dennis values the versatility of cycling, citing it as a source of healthy recreation, social interaction, transportation, and therapy.
The Fresno Cycling Club offers a diverse range of events to engage cyclists of all skill levels and interests. For off-road enthusiasts, there are gravel rides that provide opportunities for riders who prefer off-pavement cycling. The club also offers ride opportunities for most levels of riders, from beginners to experienced cyclists, ensuring that anyone can participate, regardless of their skill level.
Community events are another highlight of the FCC's calendar. The club collaborates with organisations like Outdoor Afro and Biz-Werx for events focused on joy, movement, and community on two wheels. These events are open to new bikers and seasoned riders alike.
Structured rides like the Annual Tour de Lakes, which offers three levels of rides, allow riders to choose rides that match their skill and endurance levels. The FCC hosts a variety of events, including gravel rides, road rides, and free events like the New Year's Day ride and the Tour de Lakes ride.
Beyond Fresno, the FCC boasts members living in Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, and Nevada. The club aims to continue providing numerous riding opportunities for its members and the broader cycling community.
Being a member of the Fresno Cycling Club offers more than just the thrill of the ride. Members enjoy discounts at local bike shops, access to the club's website and ride calendar, participation in the club's free ride events, limited injury insurance coverage while riding in club-sponsored rides and events, access to social media pages to connect with fellow members, and the opportunity to become an advocate for bicycle safety.
The Fresno Cycling Club also hosts paid events such as the Everyone Loves Raymond gravel ride, the Annual Kirch Flat Ride, the Climb to Kaiser and Tollhouse Century ride, the Bass Lake Powerhouse Double Century, and the Tour de Femme.
Dennis invites everyone to join the Fresno Cycling Club, describing the members as fun-loving and active. He emphasises the need for the club to focus on attracting younger riders to its activities.
As the summer heat sets in, Dennis advises hydration as the key to summer cycling safety, also suggesting riding in the cooler morning hours, applying sunscreen, avoiding extreme heat, and riding cautiously.
The Fresno Cycling Club protects the rights of cyclists by following local, state, and national affairs as they concern cycling and encouraging member involvement when needed.
Photos from the Fresno Cycling Club's recent Climb to Kaiser event, taken by Christian Israel Photography, provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and excitement that the club embodies.
Lorie Lewis Ham, Editor-in-Chief and contributor to various sections of the publication, with a connection to the literary and entertainment worlds, has set her latest mystery series in Fresno's Tower District and the world of community theatre. Books 1 and 2, "One of Us" and "One of You," are available for purchase on her website.
For more information about the Fresno Cycling Club, visit fresnocycling.com. Join the fun today and discover the joy of cycling with a community that truly loves what they do.
The Fresno Cycling Club, with its diverse events, encourages everyone to join, offering benefits beyond just the thrill of the ride such as discounts at local bike shops, access to the club's website and ride calendar, and participation in community events focused on health-and-wellness, lifestyle, and sports. Dennis Ball, the club's president, advocates for a balanced approach to summer cycling safety, emphasizing hydration, riding in the cooler morning hours, using sunscreen, and riding cautiously, thus promoting a healthier and safer lifestyle.
