Calling all GCC'ers, it's time to celebrate. After a too long hiatus the Chilly Chili Picnic will be back this coming February 11th at O'Leno State Park. Traditionally our biggest and best picnic of the year, we need your participation to help make this our best ever.
In addition to the dopamine surge of a great ride on a brisk morning, and the mellow serotonin vibe being around familiar friends and good food, this year will have the adrenaline rush of friendly competition. We will have prizes, first through third for the best chilis. And maybe most importantly a prize will be awarded to the riding group that brings out the most participants. Note that any member in attendance can be counted and riding the day of the picnic is not required.
Although prizes have yet to be procured the rumor is that the local bike shops will be providing nice bicycle oriented gifts for the chili winners and a coupon for a giNormous pizza will be going to the riding group with the most folks.
The day will start with a nice ride of your choice. Group ride leaders should dust off their map books and start advertising their ride choice to group members. Ride leaders may want to start rides at the Park, or ride to the Park, about 35 miles from Gainesville (the park opens at 8 am).
There are many recreational opportunities around the picnic venue of O'Leno State Park. There is a paved bicycle trail that goes to Ft. White, and on to Itchetucknee and later the Suwannee River in Branford. In Ft. White, the trail is next to an excellent Thrift Store. There are quiet rural roads near the park.
There are historic hiking/biking trails at O'Leno, These trails were used by Spanish explorers almost 400 years ago, and were active when O'Leno was a small town until 125 years ago. The first Federal Road in Florida, The Bellamy Road built in 1826, runs across the park, still in its original condition.
The picnic will start around 12:00. If you are able, bring your best chili. Please have electric pots to keep your chili warm. The club will have power strips. Alternatively, bring a nice salad, cornbread, or dessert to compliment the chili. The club will provide plates, utensils, and drinks. The club will have volunteers at the park by 8:30 to receive and set up food you'd like to drop off before riding.
There is an entry fee to the Park: $5 per car with up to 8 passengers, $4 per car for single drivers and $2 per bicycle or pedestrian.
DIRECTIONS TO O'LENO STATE PARK: go north on US 441, through Alachua, and through High Springs. O'Leno is 8 miles north of High Springs on US 441.
RSVP in the Members Area.
