GOBA pedals through Hillsboro WATCH THE VIDEO
The theme "Summer of Love" had a resemblance to Woodstock Saturday afternoon as thunderstorms forced some last-minute changes to the grand opening celebration of the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure, but cyclists and organizers did not let the rain dampen their spirits or enthusiasm.
An estimated 3,000 cyclists poured into Hillsboro Saturday for the start of the 24th annual GOBA. Participants will ride approximately 50 miles a day during the 5-day tour this week.
On Sunday, the route kicked off in Hillsboro, with cyclists pedaling through Leesburg and Greenfield to Chillicothe. They will make a loop through Highland and neighboring counties over the course of the coming week, biking through Ashville, Washington C.H., Wilmington, and then back to Hillsboro.
They will camp at locations along the way, with the first tents pitched at the Highland County Fairgrounds.
Local businesses and residents rolled out the red carpet for the Hillsboro launch, with many uptown businesses holding special store hours, and non-profit organizations holding dinners and food vendor booths.
Some participants said they found Hillsboro hometown atmosphere welcoming.
Milton, West Virginia residents Gary and Nancy Merle are on their sixth GOBA tour this week, and they said they found Hillsboro, and its residents, to be charming.
"We just love being here," Gary said. "I'm going to be sorry to leave this fine town (Sunday), but I have to go."
Local GOBA organizer Terry Mull said that he was proud Highland County residents were able to put their best foot forward, and he hopes the extra effort will help make this the best adventure yet for the cyclists.
The opening day parade was delayed due to some heavy rainfall and thunder. But some brave bikers ventured into the rain, to the cheers and waves of Hillsboro residents lining the streets. Many parade participants were dressed in costumes, and the Hillsboro Uptown Business Association picked the top costumes. Winners received Hillsboro Twilight candles from Beechstreet Candles in Hillsboro, along with GOBA prizes.
The rain prevented the celebration from continuing on the lawn of the Highland County Courthouse, but the events continued in the poultry barn at the fairgrounds.
Director of the Highland County Convention and Visitors Bureau Bob Lambert praised Highland County and its dedication to the "shop local" initiative as he introduced the event's emcee, general manager Pat Hays of WVNU radio. Lambert said Highland County was lucky to have a community that supported local business, and lucky to have a locally owned and operated radio station "that isn't run by some corporation in New York or Los Angeles."
Hayes introduced GOBA executive director Julie Van Winkle, and Hillsboro Mayor Drew Hastings, who performed a "Summer of Love" wedding vow renewal ceremony.