Some of Bermuda’s cycling legends will be back on the bike this weekend to celebrate the Bermuda Bicycle Association’s 50th anniversary.

The BBA was officially established on October 8, 1974, after the constitution was signed by president Leopold Kuchler, vice-president Robert Tierney and Lancelot I. Swan, the Minister of Youth and Sport.

It has played a pivotal role in promoting and developing the sport of cycling in Bermuda.

The association’s roots trace back to the early 1970s, with notable events such as the Police Cycle Gymkhana and the first time-trial around Harrington Sound in 1973, won by Kuchler.

Cycling enthusiasts such as Brian Lodge, Delano Ingham, Ross Menzies, Jim Butterfield, Keith Wicheloe, Robert Tierney, Peter Moran, and Robert Lightbourne were instrumental in the sport’s growth, often meeting in Ross Menzies’s garage to discuss the future of cycling on the island.

The first cyclo-cross event in 1975 at the Holiday Inn in St George's, won by Jim Butterfield, marked a significant milestone in the sport’s history.

Despite facing challenges such as the ban on bike races on open roads, the BBA persevered and in 1987, the first May 24 Cycle Race was permitted, with Buddy Ford taking the honours. The race has since become the most sought-after title in local cycling.

Bermuda’s cyclists have competed in the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Pan-American Games and the Caribbean Cycling Championships, amassing an impressive 46 gold, 28 silver, and 31 bronze medals since 2001.

To commemorate the golden anniversary, the BBA is inviting all cyclists to join the Legends Ride this Sunday. The 90-minute social ride will start at 10am at the Flag on Front Street, Hamilton, and will follow a scenic route through North Shore Road, Swizzle Inn roundabout, Harrington Sound Road, Paynters Road and South Road, finishing at the Botanical Gardens. Refreshments will be provided at the end of the ride.

Participants can register on the Bermuda Bicycle Association website under the Get Involved section.