Meet Tom Ognibene!
Tom is from Charleston, SC and will be participating in his 4th year at BASC!
What was your favorite ride?
I liked both the Edgefield and McCormick rides. Both featured a good mix of gravel and road. Edgefield was a bit more muddy because of recent rains.
What initially drew you to participate in Bicycle Across South Carolina?
In 2019, I saw the ad in P&C and thought it would be a good challenge for me. I had just started cycling again and being able to ride 50+ miles/day for 3 days was a worthy goal. It gave me the incentive to ride more in training.
What are some of your favorite aspects of the event?
Hanging out with fellow riders is definitely a plus. The days don’t feel rushed.
How would you describe the atmosphere and community among the riders during the event?
Everyone is here to ride bikes – so there is a camaraderie that happens from just being there.
What are some things you like about our Basecamp set-up?
I think having the Basecamp setup is better than the point-2-point of years past. It makes the days more relaxing. Ride in the morning, chill in the afternoon, hang with friends in the evenings.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from one of the bike routes?
That time we saw Bigfoot…..ok no Bigfoot siting. I do mostly road riding, so riding in the woods is a novel experience for me. I keep looking for Bigfoot…maybe this year.
How has participating in Bicycle Across South Carolina impacted you personally, whether in terms of fitness, friendships, or memorable experiences?
I definitely do more riding. While most of that is due to Covid (I’m full-time remote), it was BASC that kickstarted my reentry into cycling.
Would you recommend Bicycle Across South Carolina to others considering participating in similar events?
I do and I have. It is a fun event!
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or any advice you have for first-time participants?
Prepare for the rides. While it is not a race, make certain that you are comfortable on a bike. You want the rides to be fun. There are mechanics available. There are snacks available on the route. I will say that if you are vegetarian – you may want to bring your own food just in case. The options are limited.