Photo credits: Green Photography

In 2018, 208 cyclists rolled through Rush County to enjoy the inaugural Five in 50 Covered Bridge Ride. This year’s event attracted 367 riders from ten states. In addition to admiring the beautiful countryside and the majestic covered bridges, the riders raised $27,200 to support the Rush County Community Foundation (RCCF). Their impact will be tripled through the generous support of matching funds from Lilly Endowment Inc.’s GIFT VII grant, bringing the total support to $81,600. These funds will create a lasting impression on our community through numerous grants.

For most, the Five in 50 Ride comes and goes one Saturday a year. Actually, it takes a team of incredible volunteers that have been hard at work since January to pull it off. The RCCF wants to thank the community for the tremendous support shown during the event. Marilyn Yager, Faith Mock, Mark McCorkle, Jane Adams, and David Willkie notably have spent countless hours organizing and promoting the ride. Additionally, more than 50 other volunteers manned the SAG (supply and gear) stops, made bike racks and handled the multitude of day-of tasks to make sure everyone felt welcome and safe. We truly couldn’t have done it without all of you – thank you!

The riders led the annual Willkie Days parade through downtown to the sounds of cheers and cowbells from the crowd. As the riders split off to their different routes, one thing became apparent. “This has become a family affair – grandpas and grandkids, dads and sons, best friends, husband and wives all riding together,” noted Faith Mock.

Our community is creating a new family, too. Out of town riders consistently say, “Everyone is so friendly!” Several returned this year and plan to keep the tradition rolling into next year and beyond.

Faith continued, “The community pride has swollen and is evident – families are cleaning bridges near them, training for their first ride, and offering to help with the event. I am so happy that the Five in 50 Covered Bridge Bike Ride has partnered with the RCCF. It’s all about community and we are so glad to be able to contribute back to this place we call home.” She added, “We already have ideas for 2020’s ride. Get ready for an amazing day on Saturday, September 19!”

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