Cyclists Ready for 100 Mile Ride

Anticipation continues to build as the world`s largest pedestrian bridge is set to open to the public Saturday morning. Runners can still sign up for the 5K on Saturday, but the overwhelming response to the bike ride Sunday forced organizers to close registration. Over 1,100 cyclists are gearing up for the big ride this Sunday, and local cyclists say this event is gaining attention world-wide and is just what Arkansas needs to showcase it`s trails. Ready to hit the road pedaling, Hunter East is looking forward to adding central Arkansas to the map of cycling. "This weekend is huge for the state, not only for cycling. This bridge is going to be important for so many reasons for central Arkansas," East said. East is an avid cyclist, claiming the state title several times, and most recently, finishing second in his age group at the master nationals in Pennsylvania. So East knows what he`s talking about when he says the Big Dam Bridge is attracting cyclists of all levels from near and far. And the Arkansas native says the pedestrian bridge and surrounding trails definitely competes with bigger cities around the country. "From having riders all over the country and seeing what other big cities have to offer rivals really anything in the country," East said.