ERIC'S MILES FOR MUSIC, DAY 1, 10/1/2023:

Day 1 of the 24th Annual Cycle North Carolina’s
annual Mountains to Coast bicycle tour.

With a slight breeze and temperatures in the mid-50s, the ‘Miles for Music’ campaign was actively launched at Banner Elk, NC. Of course, cycling attire varied, but most riders donned long sleeves and gloves.

As we climbed out of beautiful Banner Elk, our first destination was the iconic Blowing Rock. At the rest stop, we were treated to a Blue Grass ensemble (PICTURED BELOW) and drank sports drinks to ensure appropriate hydration.

After the rest stop, we embarked on a 10-mile descent with sweeping panoramic views on our way to picturesque Happy Valley which, by the way, inspired the tragic folk song “Hang Down Your Head Tom Dooley”.

At mile marker 47 of the journey, we stopped at Whippoorwill Village of Daniel Boone acclaim before completing the ride in Wilkesboro, NC. I was personally delighted with our endpoint today as it the home of the famed Kruger Brothers; they also just hosted the popular ‘Carolina in the Fall Music and Food Festival’. Unfortunately, the event was one week prior to our visit. For BRO enthusiasts, they’ll remember the 2021 Revels concert where the Kruger Brothers (PICTURED BELOW) performed with the BRO and received several standing ovations.

Photo Credit: Kathy Kmonicek

Fun Facts from Eric’s Ride on Day 1:

Total Mileage: 59

Total Elevation Gain: 3,162 ft

Average MPH: 14.3

Workout Time: 4:03:26

Thank you for reading Eric’s update. This fundraiser is being organized on Eric’s behalf by Priscilla Anderson, Orchestra Manager. Click the link below to donate in honor of Eric’s success today!

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/blue-ridge-orchestra/priscilla-45370