2004 Year in Review

2004 GITAP again traveling through Morrison

Area businessees and organizations donated door prizes to the riders.

The hospitality tent provided by Friends Of the Parks.

Can’t decide what to do with your summer vacation? If discovering northwestern Illinois, visiting and camping in state parks, and biking with over a hundred other bikers interests you, maybe GITAP is for you.

Last year was the first year for GITAP (Grand Illinois Trail and Parks) bicycle ride. The IDNR and the League of Illinois Bicyclists sponsors it. This year’s weeklong bike ride starts in Dekalb on Sunday June 13. The first night ends in Starved Rock State Park with a 60-mile ride. Most of the days average 60 miles for a total of 400-430 miles during the week.

The second night ends in Johnson/Sauk State Park. Then they head north to Morrison Rockwood State Park on June 15, where Morrison’s Friends of the Parks act as host. They are hoping to route the bikers through the City of Morrison.

Midweek is one of the toughest days, riding along Blackjack Ridge to Galena. From there the ride goes from Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park, near Lena, then to White Pines State Park before ending in Dekalb on June 19.

Last year Marc Adami from Morrison rode along. He said, “It was well organized. There were interesting places along the trail and I enjoyed the fellowship of the other bikers. In the evening you can talk to the other bikers, find out how they trained, and what they do for work.” It’s a great place to meet new people.

The most important part is to be in good shape. Before the ride Adami rode 100-200 miles per week. The hills are challenging but with the average age of the riders being 55, they are achievable. Adami felt the ride was not strenuous if you are in good shape and have a good bike. Both women and men along with some families participated in the ride.

According to Adami, he liked the support of knowing the meals and entertainment were always provided. The SAG truck carried all their camping and overnight gear. A bike mechanic and massage therapist was available every night.

Hotel accommodations are also available at every location for those that don’t enjoy or want to camp. On some days, alternate shorter routes or longer challenging routes are available. You must be able to contend with all types of summer weather including heat, rain and wind, though last year the weather was very good all week.

In 2003, the ride was nearly full by the first of February and is limited to only 140 riders so it is important to sign up early.

To read about last year’s ride or see their photo album visit GITAP 2003 or IDNR. For information and cost of this year’s ride visit GITAP 2004.

by Barb Benson, theCity1.com
January 23, 2004