The annual Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) will return to Washington-Wilkes in June, bringing thousands of cyclists back to one of their favorite stops on the ride.

In 2006, some 1,600 bicycle riders and a few thousand of their friends came to Wilkes County. After they had set up camp and recovered from their ride, they spent the day dining and shopping and dancing on The Square. That night, most spent the night sleeping anywhere they could, including the high school's hallways and gym floor, while the lucky ones filled every bed in town and more.

By the time they left early Saturday, they were bragging about Washington, with many BRAG riders saying that the Wilkes County day was the best day of their six-day ride from Dalton to Augusta.

For 30 years, thousands of bicyclists have been gathering in the Georgia summer to complete the cross-state cycling trek known as the Bicycle Ride Across Georgia, Ride Director Vicki D. Thompson said. "BRAG is a social ride, not a race, comprising cyclists from all walks of live, ages, and abilities."

This year, the 381-mile ride starts June 6 and will take riders from Hiawassee across the state to Clarks Hill Lake with overnight stops in Dahlonega, Mt. Airy, Athens, Elberton, and finally to Washington on Friday, June 12. "Riders travel at their own pace along a set route that follows scenic roads with minimal auto traffic," Thompson said. "At the end of each day's ride, most riders pitch tents at a local high school. Others set up sleeping bags indoors in gyms, while others choose to stay at local motels. During the afternoon and evening, BRAG provides activities such as movies, games, talent shows, and entertainment."

"We're excited about BRAG coming back here," said W-WCHS Principal Steve Echols, who will again host the riders on school grounds. A dedicated rider himself, Echols said he would be working with the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, the city, and other local groups to make the BRAG visit a good one.