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It requires courage and skill, but maybe a degree of abandon to build downhill speed,
hit the the "jump board" and fly into the air above the pond water. Then the rapid
descent, discarding or riding the bike, into the pond water. Yesterday was the 4th
Annual Appalachian Bike Classic Pond Jump.
The grand champion pond jumper was Tyler Ritchie, who flew through the air a little
fancier with a little more distance. Ritchie had some pretty stiff competition. Some of
the youthful jumpers accomplished some interesting gymnastics in mid-air.
The first ever woman jumper gave it a try yesterday, 45-year-old Lori Alechnewith of
Pittsburgh.
A large cash collection among the spectators was not enough booty to get Bim the
Barber or Eric Cain to straddle a bike and take the giant leap. Both cited the
experience of Steve Buford Johnson two years ago, whose heroic antics sent him to
the hospital. Bim said "You nuts, or something."
After each jump the bike is retrieved. A bike left in the pond from last year was found,
actually in pretty good shape.
Rick Jarvis, owner of the local NAPA store, was the official starter, the event being
sponsored by NAPA and Stihl chainsaws.
A wheelie on water
Bike retrieved after a year in the pond
High flyin' bloomers
Like a fish outta water
Pond jump a big spectator event
Heading toward ramp
Abandon all fear
The "first" lady of pond jumping
Rick Jarvis the "starter"
A real winner
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