Hundreds of cyclists are expected to arrive in downtown LaGrange on Friday during the 41st annual Bicycle Ride Across Georgia event, according to a press release from the Town of LaGrange. Runners can arrive from 9 a.m.

Cyclists will participate in Big BRAG, BRAG’s main event of the year, according to brag.org. The trip typically covers around 60 miles per day, with the route varying each year. Cyclists can enjoy the festivities and attractions in every city they stop at.

This year’s Big BRAG trip began on June 5 with participants camping out on Lookout Mountain, which sits on the Tennessee border.

Cyclists started cycling the next day. The event will end on June 12 in Columbus.

Along the way, participants enjoyed a two-day stay in Carrollton. They camped overnight at Lafayette, Cave Spring, Carrollton and Senoia and will also be camping at LaGrange.

Each year, Big BRAG participants use paved side roads and cycle paths for seven days. This year’s attendees have rest stops every 10 to 18 miles, as well as support and equipment vehicles (SAGs) and medics to make their trip comfortable and safe.

Each evening, participants can listen to a different group of repeats. They will cover 80s music, The Beatles, Neil Young, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, The Allman Brothers, The Cars and more.

Executive Director Franklin Johnson said the biggest thing about the event is the sense of community it fosters.

“Everyone is on the road together. Everyone shares a common goal and a common mission… we all share stories of our great adventures throughout the day… It’s very common, ”said Johnson.

There are several ways people can get home after the event.

“We go back and forth between people. Lots of people, we pick them up in Columbus and haul them up to the top of Lookout. So when they’re done, their car is there, ”Johnson said.

He also said that many participants were picked up by family members.

“A guy is riding his bike home in Atlanta after completing the ride,” Johnson said.

BRAG is a non-profit company that provides affordable bicycle tours in Georgia. It was established in 1980, making it the second oldest cycling tour through the states of the country.

BRAG emphasizes that its rides are not races and are suitable for people young and old, experienced and inexperienced.