FREEPORT, Grand Bahama - Nineteen intrepid, if not slightly bleary-eyed, cyclists marked the start of daylight savings time by gathering early at Taino Beach on Sunday, March 13th, for the annual 50 mile bike ride to raise funds for travel expenses and uniforms for junior rugby players on Grand Bahama.

Road bikes, mountain bikes, triathlon bikes, and even a tricycle headed off towards Barbary Beach on this sunny and slightly cool morning.   Since the ride is not a race but a fundraiser, the pace was leisurely for most and the conversation lively.

Unfortunately mid-way through the ride a confusion over the route resulted in a tumble for one rider who was unable to complete the full course and only eighteen cyclists returned to Taino Beach for the finish around noon.   In true team spirit many of the cyclists have vowed to ride again in a few weeks so the injured rider can complete her 50 miles.

Photo: Nineteen intrepid cyclists gathered at Taino Beach on March 13th for the annual 50 mile bike ride to raise funds for junior rugby.   Left-right: Vicki Stafford, Bruce Chee-A-Tow, Walter Strauss, Janis Robertson, Lee Rawlinson, Jeff Morasco, Roland Schoettle (on tricycle), Cath Hindley, Sarah Kirkby, Jim Goodrum, Jim Pierson, Chris Cafferata (event organizer), Lynette McInnes, Kate Wharton, Vic Skinner, Leo Devillers, Scott Albury, Chris Baker, and Alex Cafferata. (Photo by Suzanne Baker)