Pedaling Through History: A Memorable Ride at the LBJ 100 Bicycle Tour

On April 5th, the LBJ 100 Bicycle Tour brought together cyclists from across Texas and 22 other states for a memorable ride through history. This highly anticipated event offered both a physical challenge and a unique connection to the legacy of America's 36th president. With route options ranging from 16 to 62 miles, the ride welcomed both seasoned cyclists and newcomers.

The ride wasn't just about the challenge—it was about experiencing a living legacy in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Participants pedaled the same roads once traveled by President Lyndon B. Johnson, with each mile echoing history and setting the LBJ 100 apart.

Acting Superintendent, Christine Jacobs/Courtesy Richard Reyes

Despite the unpredictable Texas Hill Country weather, including strong winds, thunderstorms, and early morning showers, riders and volunteers showed up in full force, undeterred by the challenging conditions.

Participant Leonard Bentch shared his thoughts: "Ordinarily, I enjoy the route, having done the 42 and 62-mile circuits several times. This year was different, of course. However, this event is special because of the cause and the venue. Among the local cycling community, the LBJ 100 is the traditional start of the 'good weather' cycling season. It's not the same, of course, but it is akin to the Masters golf tournament, marking the highly anticipated beginning of the professional golf tour."

"Not having the event for the previous two years was a loss to us. I hope that the Friends of LBJ will continue the event at the current location. Having hundreds and even a thousand riders involved is important to the ongoing support of the LBJ Friends' efforts to make the house and outbuildings available to the public."

Volunteer Brent Howard shared his experience, saying: "Volunteering for the Friends for the first time was a great experience. Everyone was super nice, and I got to meet so many people and help the event run smoothly. My favorite moment was assisting the riders with their drinks for the BBQ, as it allowed me to chit-chat with all the riders."

On their return, riders enjoyed a post-ride meal from Old 300 BBQ and beer from Aldstadt Brewery.

A Heartfelt Thank You From the Friends of LBJ National Historical Park.

The 14th LBJ 100 Bicycle Tour is in the books! I hope you didn't miss it. We had 680 registered riders. Although the weather could have been better, we had a great ride through the ranch and the hills to the north. They call this area the Hill Country for a reason. We could not have done this without the help of our Premier Sponsor, Garrison Brothers. Riders enjoyed a traditional LBJ Ranch-style meal, BBQ with all the traditional sides, courtesy of our Start and Finish Line sponsor, Blanco Old 300 BBQ. LBJ would have been proud. Altstadt Brewery and Athletic Brewing provided beer. HEB provided rest stop snacks and drinks.

Thank you to all the Rest Stop sponsors, many of whom staffed their sponsored stop. Special thanks to Rhinory, Vogel Tractor and Vogel Orchard, First United Bank, National Park Conservation Association, Ab Astris Winery, Carter Creek Resorts, Walden Retreat, and the Malechek Family.

Thank you to the Gillespie County Democrats for sponsoring SAG (Safety and Gear) vehicles and for making the ride safer. Thank you to the Gillespie County Country Schools, Cave Creek, Willow City, and Nebgen for hosting our riders and sharing your history.

Thank you to the additional financial assistance from Arrowhead Bank, Adego Vinho Winery, Duecker Orchards/Allied Ag, Blanco County Democrats, Johnson City Coffee Company, Johnson City Signs, and Bob's Pickle Pops. Thank you to all the volunteers, too numerous to mention, for all your time, patience, and assistance.

Thank you to all the National Park employees who worked tirelessly to make this ride happen smoothly. THANK YOU, all, we could not have had this event without all the wonderful support we received from many people.

Sincerely, 

Friends of LBJ National Historical Park 

About

The event began in 2008 as part of the centennial celebration of President Johnson’s birth. It was the vision of Luci Johnson and Ian Turpin, who wanted to give the public a chance to experience the LBJ Ranch and the surrounding Texas Hill Country just as they had—by bike, immersed in the beauty and history of the landscape. The Friends celebrate nineteen years of partnering with the National Park Service to provide funding for educational programs, conservation projects, and historic preservation needs. Rider participation supports those projects here at the Park. Founded in 2007 with the encouragement and support of Mrs. Johnson and her daughters, Luci Baines Johnson and Lynda Johnson Robb.