The Valley Fire may have dented the Konocti Challenge, but it could not knock it off course.
Those responsible for the annual bicycle course around Lake County debated postponement or cancellation of an event generally drawing over 700 riders for a day of pedaling and weekend of activities. In the end, they opted to invite cyclists, on schedule.
“Come here and see that we’re resilient,” event coordinator Jennifer Strong said, remarking on the committee’s message to riders from around the western states.
Of course, they were forced to make three concessions to the fire. They contacted all local hotels to assess vacancies then looked for Lake County Rotary Club members and other local residents willing to house the overflow, as more than 600 riders are expected to participate.
“We are not going to displace evacuees,” Strong pointed out.
They also collected almost 100 children’s bicycles to serve as replacements for those lost in the fire. On Saturday they will present these to the families.
Finally, they eliminated the 100 mile course, which typically ran through Cobb to Middletown. The 2015 Konocti Challenge — the 25th running — will consist of 20, 40 and 65 mile options, the latter a trek around Clear Lake.
Organizers encouraged 100 mile participants to ride the 65 mile event. The response was encouraging.
“They all said they are going to be here to support the community,” Strong said.
In that regard, organizers will be selling a special t-shirt for $20 with a “Rising to the Challenge” theme. All proceeds go to the Lake County Rotary Club fire relief fund. The shirts will be available at the event and on the Konocti Challenge website.
The ride starts at 7 a.m. on Sunday. Shirts will be available at the barbecue at the Skylark in downtown Lakeport all afternoon.
“We need people to come here,” Strong said.
