1.  Berkshire scenery.  Rene's first reason, and a big one.  With a route that includes the most classic of New England landscapes (there's even a covered bridge) even we natives know it's worth more than just a glance out the car window.  Maggie and her father plan to savor the morning ride, and then, while they're in the neighborhood,  spend the latter part of their day picnicking at Tanglewood in celebration of her grandfather's birthday.
 
2.  An invigorating course with a friendly atmosphere.  The non-competitive nature of the ride is another important selling point for this father-daughter team.  Athletic activities like the Hoosic River Ride offer friendly, supportive environments that can still test one's abilities.  The route is spotted with volunteer-manned break stations that offer opportunities to rest and refresh before moving on.  According to Lisa Carey Moore, the ride's organizer, the most demanding segment of the journey is the four mile uphill stretch in Petersburg.  The Garzas have been practicing for that, but Moore encourages any athletic individuals to give it a try, especially since there is no pressure to race to the finish.  As Moore says, "it's all about having a good experience."
 
3.  An important cause.   For the Garzas it's natural to combine the things they love to do with the things they care about.  Last summer, Rene and Maggie rode in a fundraising ride to support Diabetes research.  This year, the Hoosic River Ride was a better fit with their schedules.  According to Moore, all proceeds beyond the cost of running the ride go directly to the educational and environmental projects of the Hoosic River Watershed Association.  When we spoke on the phone, Moore said that there were already 75 pre-registered riders, but she's hoping the number will double before it's all said and done.  Riders are invited to register as late as half hour in advance of the event by showing up at 1611 Cold Spring Road with their $50 registration fees (See www.hoorwa.org for more detailed information).
 
By the end of our conversation, it seemed to me that Maggie and Rene's unique approach to the ride involved some reasons that could work for many of us.   We may not all be as well-prepared, but at least we can give it a try--and bring along our good attitudes and power bars.

 
Cynthia Saunders is a freelance writer and the  Director of Education for the Barrington Stage Company.  A North Adams native and current resident, she is excited to live within walking distance of her favorite restaurants, yoga studio, and movie theatre.  She can be contacted at cynthia.saunders@gmail.com.