The Girlfriend Ride marked its 10th year as riders braved the heat in support of female empowerment.
Organizers said about 500 riders — mothers, daughters, granddaughters and groups of friends — turned out for Saturday morning’s event, which began when temperatures were in the mid-70s and climbed by about 10 degrees by noon. The ride started and ended at 450 North Brewing Co./Simmons Winery east of Columbus.
Participation levels have varied over the years — from 500 to 1,000 on average — based on weather or other factors, such as the number of other popular events held on the same day.
Columbus resident Kim Gilliland, who has ridden in past events, used this year’s Girlfriend Ride to welcome her daughter-in-law, Angel Allman, and granddaughter, Brooklyn, to the community.
“This is a good chance to come see what Columbus is all about,” Gilliland said.
For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Republic.
