Ladies, roll out your bicycles and get ready for the second annual Belles on Bikes ride.

This year’s ladies-only bicycle ride presented by the Natchez Bicycle Club will be Saturday. The first Belles on Bikes event was a tremendous success with nearly 70 women participating and we hope to exceed that number this year.

Last year, many participants traveled to Natchez from several other states to join our local riders, and we would love to see even more local ladies in on the fun this year.

Cyclists of all fitness levels can enjoy this event with routes ranging from 18 miles to 62.5 miles. Rest stops with snacks, cold water and friendly smiles will be strategically located along the routes. Vehicles will monitor the routes just in case there are mechanical difficulties, flat tires or tired legs.

The popularity of cycling has surged among women in recent years and it is no different in our community. Many of the riders you see on our roads are the women who have discovered the mental and physical benefits of riding their bicycles. Cycling is a lifelong sport that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages and athletic abilities. It is both aerobic and joint-friendly, allowing riders to have the benefit of a workout while being kind to aging body parts.

Cycling events like Belles on Bikes occur all over the United States. Riders are always eager to explore new terrain and enjoy the company of other cycling enthusiasts and our area is perfect for recreational bicycling. These cyclists stay in our hotels, patronize our restaurants, and spend money in our shops and it is the goal of the Natchez Bike Club to use events like Belles on Bikes to help spread the word about what our area has to offer. We would love for Natchez to be known as a “cycling destination.”

With our scenic back roads and proximity to the Natchez Trace, we have much to offer cyclists.

Events like Belles on Bikes would not be possible without the support and generosity of our local sponsors. Thank you to AMR Ambulance Service, The Bike Shop at Trippe’s Western Auto, Jordan Carriers, Anruss Salon, Blankenstein’s Supply & Equipment, Callon Petroleum Company, Delta Bank, Gibson Interiors, Landscape Resources, Marketplace Café, United Mississippi Bank, Natchez Veterinary Clinic, and Waycaster & Associates.

The Natchez Police Department, The Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the Natchez State Park and the Natchez Trace are also to be recognized and thanked for their assistance and support.

For more information or to register online you can visit www.natchezbike.org, e-mail bellesonbike@gmail.com or call 601-304-0116.

Fliers and registration forms for the event are currently available at The Bike Shop in Trippe’s Western Auto. You will also be able to register at the special packet pick-up party from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at The Marketplace Café or from 7 to 8 a.m. Saturday, prior to the ride start time at 8:30 a.m. Your $40 registration affords riders an event T-hirt, a super goody bag, a refreshing lunch, a chance for great door prizes, and of course a well marked and supported route.

Beth Richard is a Natchez Bicycle Club member.