500 cyclists passing through canal towns
By John Zornow

The Village of Newark, the only community in Wayne County to owe its entire existence to the Erie Canal, threw out the welcome mat Tuesday to 500 cyclists from 35 states and several other countries.

The Cycling the Erie Canal was a 400-mile tour from Buffalo to Albany, July 2 to 13.

Village officials and Newark Chamber of Commerce members greeted cyclists as they arrived via the NYS Canal Trail, on their way to overnight in Seneca Falls. Ice cold drinks, and fresh fruit was served to cyclists parched by the high temperatures and humidity. Many participants, wanting more substantial fare, found their way to the Newark Diner, Parker's Grille and The Corner Restaurant as well as a couple of hot dog stands.

T. Spencer Knight Canal Park, and the Newark Chamber Headquarters was utilized by many to rest and clean-up for the trip ahead.

Among the participants were three father-and-daughter teams, including Rev. Dan Benedict of Marbletown and his daughter Rachel Doan.

Many cyclists spent Tuesday evening at the New York Chiropractic College and Mynderse Academy in Seneca Falls.

top of page

Copyright © 2008
Courier-Gazette, 613 S. Main St. Newark, N.Y. 14513 - 315-331-1000
All Rights Reserved