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RANGELEY — The town of Rangeley, the Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce and local volunteers said they three-day layover for the 2017 BikeMaine event was a successful one.
BikeMaine is a program of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, a nonprofit membership organization with more than 5,000 members working to make Maine better through biking and walking.
The cyclists arrived Sept. 12 and departed Sept. 14.
“BikeMaine is a very organized group of people, and they have been a pleasure to host,” stated Joe Roach, director of public services for the town. “Their presence has opened our eyes to the benefits of bicycle tourism in Maine while reinforcing the strong sense of community that exists in Rangeley.”
At least 400 riders and 75 support staff and volunteers arrived to a warm welcome at the Rangeley Town Park. The park had been transformed into the BikeMaine Village, where hundreds of tents — with a beautiful lakeside view — sprouted up.
On Wednesday, the cyclists explored the region via kayaks, seaplane, pontoon boat, shuttle buses, on foot and even by bicycle on their day of “rest.” They enjoyed area museums, shops and restaurants; tried their hands at fly-casting and trap and skeet shooting, hosted by the Rangeley Region Guides & Sportsmen’s Association; took in the views at Height of Land; and hiked up Bald Mountain. There were art shows, massage therapy, yoga and Qi Gong, programs at the Rangeley Public Library and live performances at the RFA’s Lakeside Theater. After dinner at the Church of the Good Shepherd, they enjoyed a beer garden and the music of The Mallett Brothers Band at Parkside & Main, capped off by a spectacular fireworks display. After a hearty breakfast hosted by the Rangeley Rotary, the cyclists headed off, just as the early morning fog was beginning to lift.
Karen A. Ogulnick, executive director of Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce, noted the entire community came together to prepare for the event and she was very pleased to hear firsthand all of the positive feedback from the BikeMaine cyclists. “We were thrilled to have the opportunity to be the 2017 layover town and host the BikeMaine visitors. Our goal was to showcase not only the natural beauty of the region, but also all of the activities available, the shops, restaurants and accommodations and, most importantly, the warm hospitality of the people,” she continued. “By all accounts, working together with the Town of Rangeley and many dedicated volunteers, we succeeded in achieving that goal — and then some. A true testament to everyone and every business and non-profit organization here.”
Zach Schmesser, event director for the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, was very happy with the group’s stay in Rangeley. “We were thrilled and thoroughly impressed with Rangeley’s efforts as this year’s layover community. From the moment riders arrived in town until they left, members of the community were enthusiastic to see riders and made them feel welcome,” he said. “It was great to see all of the businesses in Rangeley work together to make this a wonderful event. We are very appreciative of the leadership provided by Joe Roach and Karen Ogulnick; the 2018 BikeMaine layover community has big shoes to fill! Thanks to numerous volunteers who helped to provide such a fantastic experience.”
