3RD
ANNUAL KOOL-AID CLASSIC A SUCCESS
On Saturday, August 9, 2003, HUB sponsored the 3rd Annual Kool-Aid Classic Bicycle Tour in conjunction with Kool-Aid Days in Hastings, Nebraska. HUB, which stands for Hastings Unique Bicyclists, held the event to raise money for the Pioneer Spirit Trail, a hike and bike trail to be built in and around Hastings. With generous help from the cyclists and local area sponsors, over $800 was raised for the trail.
Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures greeted the 80 cyclists in total Saturday morning, 35 from Hastings and 45 from out-of-town including three from other states, two from Kansas and one from Oklahoma. Other Nebraska towns well represented included seven from the Omaha metropolitan area, six each from Lincoln and Grand Island, and four from Aurora. Last year's event had 60 cyclists.
The cyclists were sustained during their journey of 30 or 60 miles with several rest stops along the route. Each rest stop was stocked with bananas, homemade zucchini bread, peanut butter, water and, of course, Kool-Aid. Afterward everyone enjoyed a spaghetti dinner at Mama Rosey’s. Those who pre-registered received a colorful T-shirt.
This event would not be possible without the support of the volunteers and sponsors. A special thanks to the volunteers that helped out before and/or during the event, including Elmer & Barb Murman, Doris Breckner, Bob & Sharon Breckner, Ben Green, Amy Morris & Drew Ceperley and Bruce & Alisa Sandahl. A special thanks also to the sponsors who either gave cash or in-kind support, including Brown's Shoe Fit, Family Medical Center, Five Points Bank, Hastings HVAC, Hastings State Bank, Hogan's Sporting Goods, Keith's Pharmacies, Mama Rosey's, McBride & Arneson Vision Clinic and Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab.
In three years, this event has raised nearly $2500 for the Pioneer Spirit Trail. The money has been placed in a special fund with the Hastings Community Foundation to be used for the construction and beautification of the trail.
Next year's event is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, August 14, 2004. For more information about the Kool-Aid Classic Bicycle Tour, contact tour directors Bruce and Alisa Sandahl at 402-463-1138 or absandahl@alltel.net.