Many of you might be wondering why Summit Biking has gone from a low-key group to the nonprofit corporation it is now. And it’s a good question as we haven’t fully explained the reasons. Bob Guthrie and I began Summit Biking 12 years ago. We had 12 bikers at that first ride, and Bob and I knew them all, having ridden and skied with them. Word got out about the fun we were having, and more bikers came out each Monday and numbers increased exponentially. Even with the larger number of participants we still kept it simple as the years went by, even though we no longer knew everyone. However with the advent of construction of the Swan Mountain Rec Path, things became more complicated. Early in the design, fundraising, and then construction, the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments (NWCCOG) was the actual fundraiser, with members of Summit Biking on the Friends of the Swan Mountain Rec Path committee. As the Swan Mountain project comes to a close, NWCCOG has removed itself from the scene. In order to continue the fundraising efforts and, in particular, to have a home for the Bob Guthrie Ride, a new nonprofit organization was necessary.
It was decided, as the majority of the Rec Path members were also involved with Summit Biking, that Summit Biking should be that entity. So with the premise that riding was what we were all about, Summit Biking became a nonprofit corporation. For tax purposes and liability issues, it was decided that there was really no other option. Go to our home page at www.summitbiking.org and read our mission statement. In part it says: “Our mission is to enhance recreational bicycling opportunities in Summit County…” It adds that we aim to be a fundraising resource to enhance recreational riding opportunities in Summit County. Through your generous contributions, previous “Bob Guthrie Memorial Rides” and the annual concert, we have raised approximately $75,000. This money was used for matching funds that generated over $400,000 in total private funds being raised.
At this time we are looking at using the funds from your dues and receipts from the 2010 CIRCLE THE SUMMIT RIDE, to be held August 14, to light the tunnel at the top of Vail Pass and for whatever additional expenses are needed by the county to finish Phase 3 (Summit Cove) of the Swan Mountain Recpath. We have already had considerable impact as a force in biking in Summit County, when CDOT listened to our comments regarding signage and center rumble strips when repaving Loveland Pass. And to continue this, we have written a letter of support for rerouting the rec path behind the Conoco Station at Copper and hope this eventually leads to a path up Freemont Pass.
As this is your group and we want to know where you want enhancements made to the entire Summit County road-biking experience, please let us know so the Summit Biking Board of Directors can compile our collective wish list.
Summit Biking by necessity has evolved. But the simpler lifestyle we all aspire to is still present each and every Monday. We ride; we eat; we talk; we make friends; and then we do it again. We hope all of you remain members and recruit others to join us in this truly unique experience. Yes, there are dues and a waiver to complete, but when you look out at the mountains and shift into a lower gear to make that hill, remember why we love to ride. Finally, let us know how we are doing and what we can do to make this an even better experience.
Al Kahn
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