Asheville, NC - This spring, 75 riders strapped on their helmets and hopped in the saddle with one road on their minds: the Blue Ridge Parkway. They were setting out for the Blue Ridge High Pass Boogie, a motorcycle endurance challenge conceived by Asheville BMW Riders Vice President John Koenig, which raises funds for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
This year’s ride was a great success. At the club’s July meeting and cookout, the group present Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation CEO Carolyn Ward with a check for $6,507 to help fund the rehabilitation of the amphitheater at Mount Pisgah Campground, milepost 408 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Earlier this year, the plan to repave the amphitheater, replace sagging seating, and upgrade the electrical system was chosen to be a Centennial Challenge project, which guarantees matching funds for select initiatives in conjunction with the National Park Service’s 100th Anniversary in 2016. The club’s donation will be doubled to just more than $13,000.
“So much good comes from the Blue Ridge Boogie. Our Asheville BMW Riders Club looks forward to hosting guests from outside the area, regardless of the brand of bike they ride,” said Club Events Coordinator Linda Cox. “We share the passion for riding, a deep regard for the Blue Ridge Parkway, and are honored by the opportunity to contribute to its future.”
Last year’s event raised funds to help complete the construction of bathrooms and expansion of the parking area at Graveyard Fields, milepost 418. “The Asheville BMW Riders started this fantastic event out of a love for the Parkway and desire to improve it for all visitors,” said Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “We couldn’t be more grateful for their contributions and commitment to the Parkway, as well as their friendship.”
Three routes, long and short paved loops and a dual-sport challenge, gave riders a variety of course options. The ride began and ended at Eurosport Asheville, a sponsor of the Blue Ridge High Pass Boogie. Additional partners for the event were Wild Wings Café and Biscuit Head restaurant.
For more information about the Asheville BMW Riders, visit www.ashevillebmwriders.org.