April 2010Big Wheels Keep Rolling Down the HillBy Tom PriceThe annual Bring Your Own Big Wheel Race will be rolling down Potrero Hill’s Vermont Street this Easter Sunday, April 4th, after overcoming several bumps in the road. Hundreds are expected to line the windy road between 20th and 22nd streets to watch costumed riders navigate the turns. As with last year, the first heat is reserved for kids. Several hurtles had to be overcome before this year’s race made it to the starting line, including concerns from neighbors about parking, traffic, and potential impacts to McKinley Square. But after organizers met with dozens of neighbors, and reached an agreement with the Recreation and Parks Department to block off sensitive vegetation from being trampled by spectators, at press time it seemed all but certain that a street closure permit would be issued on March 25th. “I’d like to really thank the McKinley Square Community Association for taking the time to help us understand who we needed to reach out to and connect with,” said organizer Darcy Villere. “Our goal is to have a safe, fun, free, family friendly, only-in-San-Francisco event…and then clean up after without a trace.” This is the free form race’s 10th year, and third time on Potrero Hill. The Vermont street location was chosen after attendance at the original Lombard Street site jumped tenfold in one year. “It was way too many people, in a spot that was already too popular,” said Villere. There are no sponsors, no fees, and no rules except plastic tires only, and Leave No Trace. “We’ll ask for donations afterwards to help cover the port-o-potties, insurance, and permits. There are so few places where all kinds of people can get together and have fun without having to pay, or look at a billboard, or both, but thankfully this is still one of them,” Villere said. The race will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. to insure the least impact on residents planning family lunches and dinners on Easter. Organizers are reserving nearby parking for impacted neighbors, and urge all attending to be respectful of their surroundings. For more information: byowcrew@gmail.com. |
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