Meet Kim Wilson!

Kim Wilson is from Charleston, SC and will be participating in his 6th BASC Ride this year! He has lots of helpful information for new riders!

Read his answers below:

How many years have you participated in BASC? Which years?

All 5 years since BASC originated in 2019

What initially drew you to participate in Bicycle Across South Carolina?

I had just retired from education in 2019. I was reading a full page ad in the Post and Courier entitled Join the BASC. It looked interesting. I saw a tagline that said ‘for the casual bike rider.’ I thought, that’s me! I ride once a month on a 1972 10-speed. If it were not for four kind souls I would still be out in the woods. I had not a clue what I was doing. I rented a bike from downtown Charleston. I was on the bike for 24 and 1/2 hours that first year. I promised myself I would never do it again. Five years later and a new bike I am still riding BASC.

What are some of your favorite aspects of the event?

Without exception, the people you meet are favorite aspect. I am not a seasoned biker and once a year I meet up again with all my new friends. We laugh, talk, and enjoy the BASC experience.

How would you describe the atmosphere and community among the riders during the event?

Being a neophyte bike rider I find all of the bikers supportive and encouraging. They watch out for you, offer assistance when needed, and have a love for experiencing the outdoors.

What are some things you like about our Basecamp set-up?

Well, I have had the experience of no base camp and having a base camp. Having a base camp provides an environment that allows the bikers to interact more easily, campers do not have to get up each morning pack their belongings and then set up again at night, and everything is centralized.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from one of the bike routes?

There are so many memorable moments but one I recall was during the BASC 2021. It was on the third day. I was riding with my son-in-law. I had a flat tire in the middle of nowhere on a dirt road uphill incline. My son-in-law was changing my tire when another biker came up from behind. He stopped to see if we needed help. We talked and found out he was the priest for St. Michael’s Church in Charleston. We finished the ride with our new friend and the SAG wagon following close behind. I knew we had everything covered and if by chance I needed last rights administered I had the right man for the job.

How has participating in Bicycle Across South Carolina impacted you personally in terms of fitness, friendships, or memorable experiences?

Staying active has always been a goal of mine. I was an avid runner for many years. As I got older I was looking for an activity that was not as hard on my body. Biking has filled that void. And at the same time has introduced me to a whole new group of friends.

Would you recommend Bicycle Across South Carolina to others considering participating in similar events?

I have recommended BASC to many friends and family members. I would encourage anyone who is looking for a fun-filled, challenging three-day bike ride to consider BASC.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or any advice you have for first-time participants?

Don’t try to kill yourself. It is an experience and a race. Have fun and take time to meet other participants. If you have never done anything like this before, talk to some of the participants who have and let them share their experience and advice to set you up for a successful ride.