Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee Slated for Sept. 13-19
Friday, August 14, 2009 | 03:46am
20th Annual Event to Loop Through Beautiful West Tennessee
NASHVILLE — Bicycle enthusiasts across the state are encouraged to participate in the 20th Annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, which will begin its seven-day ride on Sept. 13 and will feature a loop through some of Tennessee’s most beautiful landscapes.
Originating this year at Paris Landing State Park and continuing on a loop through West Tennessee, riders will stay overnight at four Tennessee State Parks.
"This ride is a major event for Tennessee State Parks and for cyclists," said BRAT Director Gary Patterson. "The terrain on this year’s ride will be less mountainous than the previous two BRAT rides, offering participants some incredible views of West Tennessee.”
The event will begin with check-in and a rider’s meeting at Paris Landing State Park on Saturday, Sept. 12. On Sunday, riders will be introduced to the route with a scenic 70-mile ride to Natchez Trace State Park. From there, the group will ride 60 miles to Chickasaw State Park near Henderson.
On Tuesday, riders will travel 65 miles to Ripley and from there, travel 72 miles along the Mississippi River to Reelfoot Lake State Park where they will spend two nights with a loop around Reelfoot Lake on Thursday.
Riders will journey 60 miles to Martin on Friday, traveling to the University of Tennessee at Martin campus. This spectacular journey will conclude on Saturday with a 55-mile ride back to Paris Landing. Several days will offer extra loops for individuals who would like to ride longer and see more areas.
“While the BRAT is not a race, it is a significant ride that requires preparation,” Patterson advised. “Even experienced riders appreciate the support staff we offer along the route that can provide assistance and transportation for those who encounter problems or simply can’t complete that day’s mileage. Our goal is to provide an outstanding experience for participants of all ages.”
The 20th Annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee is sponsored by Tennessee State Parks and the Cumberland Trail Conference. Part of the proceeds from this year's event will go directly to the Cumberland Trail Conference, a non-profit organization dedicated to the creation and preservation of Cumberland Trail State Park.
For registration information or more details about the BRAT, please e-mail Gary Patterson at garyw.patterson@tn.gov or visit www.tnstateparks.com/BRAT.
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