Meet Mark Perkins!

Mark is from Summerville, SC and has participated in BASC every year for all six years!

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

The multi-day camping, use of the Palmetto Trail, and the mix mostly off-road, dirt, sand, and gravel.

What are some of your favorite aspects of the event?

The routes, camaraderie and the basecamp community. It’s a great venue for a lot of the outdoor activities I enjoy: off road bike riding, camping, fun and games with other outdoor enthusiasts.

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

BASC unites friends and strangers from all over the country. Inspires like-minded people for a great outdoors adventure.

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

Since you only have to set-up / teardown at the front and back end, it leaves more time to enjoy the community & social aspects…food, games & fun.

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

Probably near the end of our 2nd day riding 2020 BASC, we were pleasantly surprised when we rode up on one of the sponsors/reps (New Belgian Brewery), on the southwest dike of Lake Moultrie. He’d pulled a heavy cooler full of cold “Fat Tire beverages” up onto the dike. That was about 55 miles into our 60 mile day.

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

I’ve made some friendships that would otherwise be hard to do in the normal day-to-day interactions with coworkers or neighbors….

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

I’ve done similar rides across the southeast…. and they all have something different to offer. BASC encompasses a broad range that keeps me coming back.

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

Just get out and enjoy the ride. Ride at your own pace, stop and take pictures, enjoy the rest stops. Don’t be shy, make it a point to introduce yourself around, you’ll find plenty of people to ride and hang out with. Most of all, Have FUN!