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Big Dam Bridge Training Ride Program 2024

Registration for the 2024 Big Dam Bridge Training Program has closed for the year.  And YES, we will have a 2025 training program!

The Big Dam Bridge Training Ride Program was developed to encourage more cyclists from Arkansas to register for and ride in the annual Big Dam Bridge cycling event. This program is part of a larger goal of encouraging individuals to connect with other cyclists, clubs, and bike shops. We hope to foster a spirit of community and help relieve concerns related to riding in a group. Additionally, this effort includes several Big Dam Bridge sponsor activations as well as other local events when appropriate.

The training rides will begin on June 22nd and continue every other Saturday through September 14th. Each ride will start at 7:00am from Lost Forty Brewing (501 Byrd St, Little Rock, AR 72202) and will return to the same location upon completion.  See map LINK for more details on parking.

Riders will be divided into 3 groups based on experience and ability. These groups will accommodate any level of cyclist; from the absolute beginner who just recently purchased a bike, an enthusiast who wants to increase his or her mileage and average speed, as well as a seasoned cyclist who is aiming for their best time for the 105-mile route.

On June 19th, we will host a Q&A session at Lost Forty Brewing (501 Byrd St, Little Rock, AR 72202) from 6pm to 7pm that will provide program details including mileage and pacing for each of these groups. We will also introduce our Training Ride Team of Coaches and Leaders to the attendees.

Each week will feature a sponsoring Bike Club and/or Shop and will include a short training topic from one of our Coaches as well as an introduction to the sponsoring Club or Shop. Additionally, Subaru of Little Rock will be providing a vehicle to serve as mobile nutrition, repair, and SAG support if needed. Post ride activities will alternate between Lost 40 or Camp Taco for those able to stay around after the ride.

For more detailed information, please contact the Training Ride Program Director, Scott Penrod - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Key Members

  • Scott Penrod - BDB Training Ride Director
  • Ernie Lechuga - Advisor
  • Lindsay Petruk - Coach
  • Adolfo Cordova - Coach
  • Isabella Robles - Coach
  • Josh Gordon - Coach

Schedule Overview

Rider Groups

”C” Riders - This is an individual with less than 1 year of cycling experience, just recently purchased a bike and/or rides 2 to 3 times a month. The ride leaders for this group will focus on the very basics of shifting, braking, pedaling technique, and safe riding in a small group. It will prepare the participant to easily complete the 25-mile route of the BDB with a possible stretch to the 50-mile distance.

“B” Riders - These riders have about 2-5 years of on-the-bike experience,  regularly ride 2 to 3 times a week during the riding season (April-October), and supplement their fitness through other activities such as a gym membership or at-home trainer. The ride leaders for this group will focus on refining shifting and braking while introducing the basic concepts of pace line and cooperative group riding.

This group will be prepared to complete the 50-mile route faster than previous attempts and possibly stretch to the 75-mile route.  Nutrition strategy will also be discussed and refined throughout the 7 training rides.

“A” Riders - These riders are already cycling enthusiasts who are looking to further improve their fitness and skills. They typically ride year-round 3-5 times a week and are likely members of a cycling club.  The focus for this group will include pacing, fueling, and refined cooperative group/pace-line riding.  Riders from this group will be able to complete the 75-mile route faster than previous attempts and can stretch-goal the 105-mile route with correct pacing.

See Link for Off-Week Training Program

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