Page 30 - Camden Kershaw 2018

lake (Lake Wateree), you will climb 5,000 feet on an Sheheen, like Morris, has been riding the roads of
80-mile loop. That’s as challenging as anything in Kershaw County since the 1980s.
the mountains.” Giangiorgi moved to the area a few years later;
What is especially great about Kershaw County, he has been deeply involved in the cycling scene
they said, is the sheer availability of good, safe here ever since. He headed the effort to establish an
places to ride. Kershaw County simply has miles annual ride, the Tour de Camden, which starts and
and miles of lightly traveled, charming rural roads. ends at Historic Camden and features 30-, 50- and
“The best thing for me is that you can go out in 62-mile loops through rural Kershaw County. It has
the country and ride for miles and not have any become a popular event among riders across the
problem,” Sheheen said. “They’re pretty much region, attracting more than 200 riders each year.
all rural roads, beautiful areas, and people are Downtown Camden and its adjacent residential
generally nice wherever you go. I can roll down my streets are also prime areas to check out by bicycle.
driveway and just ride for miles.” “There are all these beautiful old homes on quiet
The benefits of cycling are endless, they said. streets in the downtown neighborhoods. You can
“The thing about cycling is that anyone at just enjoy a really great ride just exploring those areas,
about any age can do it,” Giangiorgi said. “We have and doing it on a bike is a unique, up-close and
men and women of all ages who ride with us. It’s a personal way to experience it,” Morris said.
lot of fun and it’s a great way to stay fit -- the health The local biking group welcomes visitors and local
benefits are significant for anyone at any age. And citizens to share the fun.
living down here, we have great weather -- you can “We love to see new people come join us,” Sheheen
pretty much ride all year round.” said.

50 s Discover Camden-Kershaw County s 2018/2019