Socializing, happy hours, poolside lounging and of course a lot of ElliptiGO riding: the Winter Classic had it all. A record 48 guests attended the event held by the Global Elliptical Riders Club (GERC), January 12 through 14.
Participants had ample organized routes to choose from in bike-friendly Phoenix, Arizona, ranging from 19 to 45 miles.
Saturday’s ride through Carefree, Arizona (a fitting name for the fun had that day!) featured a photo op at the country’s largest sundial. Post-ride, guests gathered at the famous Big Earl’s Greasy Eats for hearty fare followed by a little sand volleyball. Later in the afternoon at the host hotel, some lounged poolside before gathering again in the evening for a group dinner at Uncorked in North Scottsdale.
The fun continued on Sunday, where attendees participated in a “ride mixer” along Sonoran Desert Drive from Apache Wash Trailhead. ElliptiGO riders enjoyed mingling and riding with new acquaintances and reconnecting with old friends. The post ride tailgate lunch back at the trailhead added another level of camaraderie to the event.
Jane LeGore, Community Outreach and Event Coordinator for the Club, managed the event and served as the local host, a role she has played since she conceived the Classic in 2014.
“We had an incredible turnout for our fifth year,” Jane said. “Both familiar and new faces joined us, and the love for ElliptiGO was at an all-time high! This was the best Winter Classic yet thanks to the camaraderie and enthusiasm of our attendees. I can’t wait for the next GERC event!”
That next event is “Get Out & GO” (GOGO), which begins in March. Club members will be able to participate in a variety of fun challenges for leaderboard glory and accumulate points for rewards at the end of the season.
Not a GERC member? What are you waiting for? Join the fun and enjoy the perks offered to Club members. The GERC is a 501(c)(7) non-profit social club with all proceeds benefiting the Club members. Find out more at elliptigoclub.org/join.