Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer
Rain didn’t stop the cyclists participating in the National Radio Astronomy Observatory Space Race Rumps this weekend.
As the drizzle turned into a downpour, racers stayed their course and sped through the muddy courses in hopes of winning first place.
Along with races for several age levels, the Rumpus featured trail rides, obstacle courses and rides through scenic parts of Pocahontas County.
The family friendly atmosphere of the event attracts people who like that their children can ride a bike, safely, without constant supervision.
“It’s a perfect spot to turn your kids loose and let them play, and ride bikes and be kids,” Dave Huber, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, said. “We’ve always been into biking.”
The Huber family lived in Pocahontas County prior to moving to Virginia and were familiar with the area and the Rumpus.
While the Rumpus draws people from all over the country, it is also enjoyed by locals.
“I love that the kids are safe – they can just kind of go and it doesn’t matter,” Angie Hoffman said. “I enjoy not having any Internet access and no texting. They’ve got great activities and things for the adults to do. There’s a lot to do and it keeps the kids busy.”
In the evenings, the fun continued with live entertainment Friday night provided by Pocahontas County’s own Wyatt Turner and his band. Anthony Rosano and the Conqueroos kept things rockin’ on Saturday night.