John and Jean White are avid tandem bike riders.
John and Jean White think pushing pedals in pairs is the perfect way to promote the scenery of the Ozarks.
After traveling to other parts of the country to ride their bicycle built for two, the Whites realized southwest Missouri is just as beautiful as other locations so they and other members of Tandems of the Ozarks started the Southwest Missouri Tandem Weekend set for June 3-5.
This marks the third year for the event that grew from 17 bikes the first year to 32 in 2015. Even more are expected for the 2016 rally that will include rides along Walnut Street, Park Central Square and Commercial Street along with treks at Tyler Ridge Winery, Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, the Ozark Greenways Trails and other locations.
“The neat thing is we get to share,” John White said. “We get to see so much scenery.”
The Whites enjoy spending time together and riding their custom-painted red and black Co-Motion rather than riding on separate bikes is an equalizer that makes their time together actually together.
John White is an avid rider while his wife prefers a more leisurely style that doesn’t put a strain on her shoulders. If they rode separately, she wouldn’t be able to keep up with her speedy husband.
“I do not have to steer,” Jean White said, grinning. “I don’t have to brake. I’m just the motor.”
Other tandem riders are encouraged to join the group for the event by visiting www.tandemsoftheozarks.com or sending email to info@tandemsoftheozarks.com. The registration deadline is May 26 and cost is $120 for the three-day event and banquet. For those who choose to skip the banquet, cost is $70. Register by May 16 to get a T-shirt.
For more information about other events and things to do in Springfield, visit www.SpringfieldMO.org or call the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 417-881-5300 or 800-678-8767.
The CVB is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the local economy through growth in local travel and tourism.
