Meet Paul Zoeller!

Paul is from Summerville, SC and has participated in all of the BASC rides! He has some excellent insights into what to expect from the event:

What was your favorite ride?

The first year was the greatest adventure riding the Palmetto Trail, but year 3 at the Dairy Farm offered the best routes. I am excited to get back there and experience some amazing gravel.

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

I was getting back into biking and usually doing about 15 miles every Saturday. I knew I liked off-road more than pavement and I had started hitting mountain biking trails in the area. I thought this was a pretty big jump for me in miles, but I love the idea of an adventure. The first year of BASC was just that, an adventure.

What are some of your favorite aspects of the event?

I always love the rides. In the past, my son has joined me for a few of the rides – I wouldn’t trade that for anything. When the ride is finished though, it is great catching up with friends I have made at this event. Most of us only see each other once a year, so it is a perfect time to grab a beer, play a game, and listen to live music together. The best part of a bike ride is reliving the experience afterward with everyone there.

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

I love coming back to BASC just to catch up with everyone. Like I said, some great friendships are made during the weekend. If you love biking and talking about bikes, this is the event for you! Sometimes, I take off by myself during these rides and usually hook up with another group doing the same pace which makes it fun to get to know them during that ride.

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

I love the stationary basecamp. It makes it easy to set up and build out your camp without worrying about having to pack it up before the ride. Throughout the years, the event has really grown to include many options for riders, from bike mechanics to washing stations. After a ride, I am really needing to stretch so the yoga at Basecamp is a good motivator for me. After dinner, we always enjoy playing games and listening to music by the fire. That is the perfect end to a day for me.

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

I have some truly great memories from years 1 and 2.  I don’t think year 1 will ever be duplicated, nor should it be, but that was one crazy adventure. I think we were at mile 60 on the East Dike of Lake Moultrie and the rain came crashing down on us. It rained so hard that the path turned to mud. We slugged through that and made camp quick enough to relax in the lake and watch the sunset. We worked hard for that sunset.

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

My fitness level has definitely improved. I had only ridden 15 miles a day prior to riding BASC. It was tough and I had to really think about riding longer distances. I was weighing in over 190 and finished the first year at 175. I have kept that ever since. I met Mark the first year of this ride, he was a totally fitness freak who really knew the trails we were riding. I laugh now but I don’t think I could have finished the first two years without him.

Would you recommend Bicycle Across South Carolina to others considering participating in similar events? If so, why?  

Definitely! For the price, this is a great event. I have ridden other events and they all have something cool to offer. This ranks up there with the best of them because the organizers make it so easy to ride well marked trails and not have to worry about food or drink after. Everything is all taken care of.

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

This is my favorite event and this year we are returning to my favorite area of South Carolina. I love the routes but, be warned, the hills are no joke. Get some extra miles into your training and the hills will be easy.