This June, explore the state of Georgia on your own two wheels with the 37th Annual Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG)—the world's second oldest across-state bicycle tour.
The 7-day leisure ride begins at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, winds through Social Circle, Milledgeville and Dublin before routing to Swainsboro and Statesboro, and then Savannah for the big finish.
The trek officially begins on Sunday, June 5 and lasts through Saturday, June 11. Daily distances average about 50-60 miles. Throughout the journey, participants will enjoy concerts, art walks, beer festivals and plenty more at the different locales.
More information about registration, lodging, routes, events and more can be found on brag.org.
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More than 1,000 bicyclists have already signed up for the event, according to Franklin Johnson, executive director of BRAG.
Can't commit to the 7-day ride? Johnson still encourages Atlanta locals to come out on Sunday and socialize, meet new people, ride along to Piedmont Park and join the BRAG family.
This year, about 18 of the ride's participants are part of BRAG's Dream Team, a group of young people ages 11-20. The team began in 1994 before Atlanta hosted the Olympics and was primarily directed toward middle school kids in Atlanta to get them excited about cycling.
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According to Atiba Mbiwan, who has been volunteering as a coach and coordinator of the BRAG Dream Team for two decades, the team has evolved to help families who can't afford all of the resources to participate in something like the BRAG race.
Using charitable funds, the organization covers bikes, helmets and other accessories for kids so parents don't have to worry.
"We teach them that this is not a race. It's a journey," Mbiwan said. "Don't ride hard. Ride smart. Just like in life, you need to understand the terrain. You gotta fight through those uphill battles to enjoy the downhill."
To nominate an individual for the Dream Team or to contribute, visit the team's website.
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