Rain doesn’t dampen enthusiasm of die-hard cyclists

In spite of soggy roads, over 350 cyclists from up and down the East Coast traveled to Mathews on Saturday to participate in the 25th annual Tour de Chesapeake.

Event director Lynda Smith Greve said just over 500 people registered for the event, “but the weather didn’t dampen the spirit of our die-hard cycling friends.”

“We were happy to share our county for this special anniversary event with so many nice folks,” said Greve. “Its popularity is a testament to the amazing Mathews volunteers who make it happen.”

Cyclists from as far away as Florida, New York and Colorado started arriving on Friday. Some Mathews Main Street businesses, along with the Bay School and the Mathews County Visitor and Information Center, stayed open late for shopping.

“The restaurants were overflowing all weekend with visitors, with several offering outdoor dining,” said Greve.

Routes opened at 8 a.m. Saturday, with the Middle Peninsula Amat...