By CINDY CROSBY
If you were out and about this weekend traveling the roadways of Colleton County, you likely spotted quite a few cyclists outfitted in colorful gear spinning their way from one end of the county to the other.
Walterboro has been hosting FestiVELO, a USA Cycling sanctioned event, since 2016. This year’s annual cycling event was held Wednesday November 10 through Sunday November 14. Each day, FestiVELO riders chose from three different scenic lowcountry routes for their morning rides, which varied in distance from 30, 60, to 100 miles. Breakfast and hot meals were provided at designated rest spots throughout the day, then riders enjoyed themed dinners, drinks, activities, and entertainment in the evenings.
The Colleton Museum and Farmers Market served as the hub for the 350-plus riders who participated in the four-day event, 270 of which were three-to-four-day riders. A make-shift tent site was available in the heart of Downtown Walterboro for riders and their families.
“We make this event happen because we care and want to support cycling advocacy,” said Charles Fox, Event Director of FestiVELO 2021. “We are all volunteers that work tirelessly to organize three routes each day, tent and RV camping, meals, entertainment, and the best lunches on course.”
According to Fox, FestiVELO is different than many other cycling events in that it is a labor of love that comes from the hearts of unpaid workers who give their time and ask for nothing in return. “There are endless one day rides, of every level, almost every weekend each year,” said Fox. “Most, if not all of those, benefit the pockets of the event director or a ‘feel good’ non-profit, but rarely does a penny go to cycling advocacy.”
“To the host community, the citizens, elected officers, employees, police, utility companies, religious organizations, and endless businesses in Walterboro and the surrounding counties go above and beyond to welcome and assure FestiVELO is safe – thank you,” said Fox. “The unwavering support at all levels is literally and figuratively without an end.”
According to FestiVELO contact, Randall Bennett, this year’s event brought close to 400 people to Walterboro. “This year, FestiVELO accounted for over 1000 hotel room nights booked, a local bed and breakfast booked, and several local shops and restaurants thanked us for sending our participants their way due to increased business over the four-day period,” said Bennett.
“The relationship between the City of Walterboro, Colleton County, and the people of this community has grown stronger and more supportive each year,” said Bennett. “I am always careful recognizing people because I always get in trouble for leaving someone out. But, Chief Marvin, working with Sgt. Edwards, made sure that the bicycling event that is part of FestiVELO was able to safely get in and out of town each day. Jeffrey Herndon, who recruited us to Walterboro, was instrumental, calling each day to make sure we had everything we needed. We were able to have a temporary campground in Downtown Walterboro because of First Baptist Church, Bethel United Methodist Church, and the City of Walterboro trusting us. We would also like to thank Eartha Cunningham, with her team at the Museum and Colleton Kitchen, who saved us several times. Also, Ian Dillinger helped notify vendors at the Farmer’s Market we were in town, so some set-up Friday evening and many stayed later Saturday due to an increase in business.”
“We would also like to thank Mayor Bill Young for his support along with Hank Amundson,” said Bennett. “Volunteers, Stacey Price and Marcus Jenkins helped make sure the event ran smoothly. I estimate FestiVELO Festival brings in at least $150,000 of economic impact to the area.”
FestiVELO began in 1998, when a group of friends gathered to work off their Thanksgiving feasts with a bike ride. The gathering continued to grow over the years and would change homes several times from Johns Island, Wadmalaw Island, to Downtown Charleston, and then Moncks Corner – before coming to Walterboro. This year’s event drew participants from 24 states and Canada with the largest age group being 60-70 years of age, followed by the 50-60 age group. Over 90 trophies were awarded for accomplishments during the four-day event.
FestiVELO 2022 is currently scheduled for November 9-13.
