The Duncan Banner

Local News

June 4, 2009

One pedal at a time

Robert Dodd

DUNCAN — In its 31st year, the Oklahoma FreeWheel bicycle tour looks to once again offer an inspiring view of the state to those who wish to make the journey.

Starting in Duncan on Saturday and ending June 13 in Kiowa, Kan., the ride will have a maximum of 1,000 participants and will span 416 miles.

Registration and packets will still be available on Saturday, at the FreeWheel Information Canopy, in the north Simmons Center parking lot. Registration lasts from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and is open to all ages.

The registration fee varies depending on age and desired length of ride. It includes route maps for each day, route security provided by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, a shower truck, at least two fruit and drink stops per day, camping space in each host community and much more.

Many entrants enjoy the event for different reasons; from those who simply love cycling, to those who wish to push themselves in an ambitious adventure. There are also those who deeply value the connections made during the excursion.

“The bikers really enjoy the camaraderie that they build with one another,” said Cova Williams, museum coordinator for the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. “We look forward to hosting it in Duncan this year.”

Susan Camp, director of Cameron University — Duncan, has ridden with her husband, Mark, in the event for 11 years.

“My very first year, I was just proud to ride the entire FreeWheel and make every day’s ride without the SAG wagon. That was my first memory,” Camp said.

She agreed that the friendships made during the ride are an integral part of the experience for her.

“Even though you only see these people once a year, you’d be happy to invite them to your home. Its that kind of relationship,” she said.

Pagon Ballard, an attendee of FreeWheel for 23 years, also agreed that making connections with people, even if you meet them only once a year, is the most rewarding part.

“It’s definitely a family-oriented event,” said Ballard.

“I see people from surprisingly young all the way to their late 70s. It’s also a great stress reliever ... a stop-and-smell-the-roses kind of ride, not a race.”

“My most memorable year was when nobody from Duncan came but me; I met new people, and they were nice people from all across the state. That’s what it’s all about for me,” he said.

Opening ceremonies will start at 7 p.m Saturday. There will be a variety of food vendors from tribal organizations for the opening ceremonies in front of the Simmons Center. There will also be a free concert open to the public starting at 5 p.m. in front of the Heritage Center, featuring Ricky Boise, to be followed by Steve Ribnicar.

The riders will head out at 6:30 a.m Sunday.

Text Only
Local News
  • Comforting memories Duncan’s ambassador honored

    When Tara Harper first saw the memorial bench for her grandfather, Al Hinshaw, she remarked about the sweet sentiment of the inscription. Shortly after that, Harper shed a few tears.

    February 3, 2012 2 Photos

  • Johnson’s bills aimed at District 50 constituents

    State Rep. Dennis Johnson is busy preparing for the upcoming state legislative session, where the eight bills he submitted will be considered.

    February 3, 2012

  • Recognized for excellence Duncan shaped Callahan, Wells lives

    Emily Wininger Callahan and Joseph T. Wells found success in their careers, success both acknowledged was shaped in Duncan Public Schools and the Duncan community.

    February 3, 2012 1 Photo

  • Super Bowl Play 60 -- 02.JPG NFL Play 60 Kids Day gets them moving

    It was kids, kids and more kids Wednesday at the Indiana Convention Center, as 38 classrooms of fifth- and sixth-graders enjoyed a morning at the NFL Experience, courtesy of the NFL’s Play 60 Challenge.

    February 2, 2012 4 Photos

  • They all pitched in 4-H member gives gift of reading

    After experience great success from a Stephens County 4-H Teen Leader Project, Ashley Powers and her three siblings donated dozens of books for use by students at Woodrow Wilson Elementary Wednesday afternoon.

    February 2, 2012 1 Photo

  • Marlow council OKs bid on electrical line over U.S. 81

    Two bids have been approved by the Marlow City Council that will help pave the way for construction of a electrical line to cross U.S. Highway 81 on the south side of the city.

    February 2, 2012

  • Barrington focus on budget, taxes

    As a new legislative tern prepares to kick off in Oklahoma, Sen. Don Barrington has his sights fixed on a number of issues and bills the State Senate will be handling before the summer recess.

    February 2, 2012

  • He earned it! City of Duncan employee retires after nearly 36 years

    After nearly 36 years as an employee of the City of Duncan, Mark Littig celebrated his last day Tuesday by sharing a potluck luncheon his colleagues arranged to honor the work and time Littig dedicated to the city.

    February 2, 2012 1 Photo

  • It was self defense

    The District 6 District Attorney’s Office has chosen to forego making charges against Bobby Joe Dyer in the death of Bryan Dean Miller.

    February 2, 2012

  • SecurityPix 1.jpg Super security goes into place for Super Bowl

    Law enforcement officials charged with Super Bowl security are taking extraordinary measures to prevent a terrorist attack, but they’re also working to keep the event from being a field day for common criminals.

    February 1, 2012 2 Photos