Each September, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine’s BikeMaine ride explores a different region of our great state. This year’s weeklong route included two full days traveling in central Maine.

On Sept. 8, 255 riders stopped in Monmouth for lunch provided by the Monmouth Lions Club. We then cycled to the State Y Camp in East Winthrop. Riders loved staying at a traditional Maine children’s camp with all the activities it afforded (including contra-dancing to the Gawler Family Band). Thanks to Barry Costa of the YMCA Camp of Maine for hosting us and to Winthrop Town Manager Jeff Woolston for coordinating the local volunteers. The Winthrop Area Rotary, Winthrop Lions Club and Legion Post 40 prepared, served and cleaned up dinner and breakfast. Talk about a service club dream team.

The next day we cycled to the Belgrade Lakes with a memorable rest stop at the Belgrade Elementary School. Lunch at the New England Music Camp in Sidney provided by the Sidney Historical Society was very special. The last seven miles of our ride took us along the beautiful Kennebec River Rail Trail.

Gardiner was our next host community. Our tent city was located in Gardiner’s beautiful riverfront park. Clark Marine graciously provided free river tours. Water Street was closed off and a 200-foot long table was set up. Local restaurants served a Taste of Gardiner meal. The great food, wonderful community reception and dining out under the stars made for an evening the cyclists will never forget. Special thanks to Patrick Wright, our town coordinator for Gardiner, Veronique Vendette our food coordinator, Bank of Maine and all the volunteers in Gardiner.

BikeMaine celebrates the best of Maine and these central Maine communities really showed off their home towns in the best possible light.

Mark Ishkanian, chairman

BikeMaine Ride Committee

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