On a breathtakingly beautiful autumn day, cyclists from across the Southeast took on the eighth annual Twin Rivers Challenge, hosted by Tallulah Falls School.
Held on October 22, the event drew local and visiting riders, adding more than $90,000 to the school’s scholarship fund.
“This is such a great event for our school and the cycling community. More than 170 corporations, organizations, and individuals responded to the call to support TFS students,” said President and Head of School Larry Peevy.
Ron Cantrell Construction, Inc. returned as the presenting sponsor and Springer Mountain Farms sponsored the post-ride meal.
This fundraiser for student scholarships at the private Northeast Georgia school has also become quite a draw for cyclists across the region. Some have participated each year since the Challenge began eight years ago.
Beyond the fundraising goal, hosting a positive experience for the riders is a top priority, says Executive Director of Advancement Sonya Smith.
“This year, the weather cooperated beautifully, making it a great day for everyone.”
Scenic views, friendly people and the various routes – 25 miles, 46 miles and 70 miles – are some of the repeated comments on the post-ride survey.
The scholarship committee chairperson for the event, Judy Forbes, provides community connections to help raise funds.
Forbes, a TFS board member, also serves in a support role for one of the four Support and Gear Stops located along the routes.
“With the Twin Rivers Challenge, each year shows more and more community support for our wonderful students and the scholarship program,” Forbes says. “This year, we were blessed with beautiful weather, a glorious showing of fall leaf colors and a tremendous turnout of volunteers. It truly was a great day for a bike ride!”
