Bicyclists Multiply as the Leaves Begin to Turn

Autumn is on the doorstep and bicyclists are burgeoning on the local roads. Sometimes they are lone riders on the trail. Sometimes they are families or groups of friends. And sometimes they are out in large groups, all neatly togged and helmeted and determined to stay the course. 

Kate Marshall, the event organizer for the Westchester Cycle Club (WCC), describes cycling as “a tranquil experience.” After a week of teaching fourth-graders in Scarsdale, she said she gets on her bike “at the end of the day and all the pain leaves my body. I get a feeling of well-being and stress relief.”

Marshall points out that cycling is more than good exercise. It has a strong social aspect. “Most people ride with other people. I met my husband riding. We were married at the top of White Face Mountain. We cycled up the mountain. I wore a veil and a sash that said, ‘Bride.’” The couple’s wedding rings are made from carbon fiber and titanium, materials used in making high-end bicycles. Marshall and her husband own nine bicycles between them.

The WCC’s most recent event was the 30th anniversary of the Golden Apple Tour.  Originally, there were 30 cyclists and one itinerary. Nowadays there are approximately 1000 cyclists.

The Golden Apple is not a race. It is a self-paced pre-routed journey, starting and ending in Somers, and is designed for the simple enjoyment of cycling with buddies. No matter the route, the scenery is voluptuous and the ride invigorating. “People come from as far away as Long Island and Massachusetts,” Marshall pointed out. 

Earlier this month, competitors came from near and far to compete in the Fifth Annual Toughman Triathalon, which includes swimming, running and cycling. The cycling route ran through North Salem and Somers. 

Danbury cyclist Herb Leventon, passing through North Salem on a Sunday morning with his friend, Helen Lupowitz, said, “It’s a beautiful day for riding. There are no cars on the road. North Salem is gorgeous -- it’s bucolic.”

Ms. Lupowitz, who lives in New York City, said, “The gorgeous scenery makes the ride seem easy. It’s an outstanding workout for someone like me. I’m so happy -- I averaged 10 miles an hour. Come on, New York City, check out Westchester!”

 

 

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