Tour de Tribury XI
September 20, 2003
The Southbury Interfaith Social Concerns Committee again sponsored this years Tour de Tribury Bike-A-Thon, the eleventh 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, the Waterbury Amateur Radio Club 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. At the time of the ride, the riders had collected a total of about $2200.
The few, the proud, the fifty milers. These folks help to define the word "Dedicated". Up at first light, or before. Dressed to ride. The weather was a bit warm for this time of the year (Thanks to a passing hurricane), but it didn't deter these men and women, determined to help those in need.
After the 50 mile folk were on their way, the registration table became busy with the next group, the 25 mile riders. Without these behind the scenes helpers, nothing would run as smooth as it does. Thanks to all those who gave up a part of their Saturday morning to help with the paperwork.
No less dedicated, these good citizens were willing to ride for 25 miles on what was developing into a beautiful day for a bike ride. And after a few words of instruction, warnings about traffic at the South Britain Congregational Church Apple Festival, they were on the road for a pleasant ride through the surrounding towns.
Our last group of riders were the 10 mile bunch. All ages represented here, young, old, and everything in between. As you might expect, this was the largest group, sent down to Shepaug Dam and back, along a beautiful riverside ride. Water stops provided, as in the past by the wonderful members of the Columbiettes of Sacred Heart Church.
Fr. Joe Donnelly, the new pastor of Sacred Heart Church was on hand to send out both the 50 mile and the 10 mile groups. A few words of encouragement, a prayer for a safe return, and thanks for the good that the riders do. Thanks for being there, Father Joe.
While all the excitement was going on in the main church parking lot, the Southbury Police Association was conducting their annual Bike Rodeo in the lower lot. Lots of little tykes learning about bike safety, having their bikes checked, and enjoying the day. Thanks officers.
Our last group to leave were the walkers. Since not everyone has a bike, or wants to ride long distances, we offer the opportunity to walk along the shaded sidewalks of Southbury to help raise funds. Here's the happy group, led as usual by walk leader Gary, ready to set out.
Everyone has their 15 minutes of fame, or so its said. Here, Lou Alongi helps secure that time for the riders and walkers by getting peoples remarks on tape.
And what would the Tour be without the Knights of Columbus World Famous Hot Dogs at the end of a long day. Here Master Chef Leo Gregoire, assisted by Bob Riendeau, Mario Nizzardo and Vince Cavalea puts the finishing touches on another platter.
Part of the happy (But tired) participants, enjoying the food, and ready for the door prize drawings. Every year the merchants of Southbury open their hearts to many requests for donations, all year long. They never fail us.
And here's a happy prize winner now.
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. See You Then!!
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