I know, I need to wrap up the Short Track Series, and I will, but before the last race, we had a great time at the Bike Parade. Most of our family hustled down to the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavillion to meet up with the many other riders who would ride down the State Capitol and back, as a bike and family friendly way to kick off the Oregon State Fair.
We met up at the central location where BMX and Mountain Bike Short track would register and enter the race the following day. Many riders were in costume, or had their bikes dressed up and many kids were in tow or on their own bikes as well! It was great to see the kids out enjoying the ride.
Earlier in the day the rain dumped down and we wondered how miserable the ride would be for the parade, however, we caught the sunbreak and had really nice weather for the ride.
Many thanks to the local law enforcement for providing a police escort along the way, giving us a safe path all the way to the Capitol building and back. We even had a few folks who came out to cheer on the riders.
All in all a great little 4 mile jaunt to celebrate bikes and riding in Salem. I only wish we’d have stopped for a picture at the Capitol! A few more photos on my Flickr page: http://www.flickr.com/photos/37571505@N06/ – and be sure to check out Eric’s photos from the event as well! – http://breakfastonbikes.blogspot.com/2009/08/scenes-from-fair-parade.html