Cyclists to Finish AIDS Ride in L.A. Today

VENTURA — Nearly 3,000 bicyclists--dressed in every costume imaginable--pumped and panted into San Buenaventura State Beach on Friday afternoon during the seventh California AIDS Ride.

They showed spirit--slapping each other’s hands, cheering on those going slower or stopping to help with mechanical problems. And they showed tenacity. It was Day 6 in the 575-mile trek from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Each day the cyclists ride about 85 miles. At night they camp together in tents provided by the organizers.

The riders began their day in Lompoc, cruised into Santa Barbara for a lunch stop and followed the Ventura Freeway onto the Ventura bike path along the ocean.

Many were sore, tired and sunburned. But they kept pedaling.

About 4 p.m. Friday, the state beach resembled a small, teeming city. A sea of luggage, hauled by accompanying trucks, was spread out while tents quickly sprung up on the grass.

Makeshift showers, washbasins, massage tables and medicine tents filled the available space, vying for weary riders’ attention. The ride ends this afternoon in Century City.

The best part of the experience, participants said, is the enthusiasm and encouragement they receive from people along the road.

“Seeing people come out of their homes in little towns in the middle of nowhere and waving--it’s just so much appreciation,” said Christy Cantrell. “I get all emotional just talking about it. You know, you can’t buy that.”