Cyclists climb, coast, and cheer for students at Twin Rivers Challenge

By
Staff Report
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Over 250 riders take off at the start of the 11th annual Twin Rivers Challenge. All three routes begin and end at Tallulah Falls School. The ride is the school's yearly fundraiser for student scholarships.

TALLULAH FALLS, Ga. — After miles of winding climbs and exhilarating descents, cyclists in the 11th annual Twin Rivers Challenge faced one final test — a steep, punishing hill that ended in celebration. At the top, Tallulah Falls School students waited with cheers, cowbells, and boundless enthusiasm to propel riders across the finish line.

A record crowd of more than 250 cyclists from across the Southeast converged on the Tallulah Falls School campus Saturday for this year’s event. Riders took on 25-, 46-, and 70-mile routes that wound through Northeast Georgia’s mountain scenery, showcasing lakes, rivers, and fiery fall colors.

Cyclists praised the views and the warm hospitality that has made the Twin Rivers Challenge a favorite. “As long as I am in this area and can ride a bike, I will ride the Twin Rivers Challenge,” said rider Zach Ford.

A group of riders enjoys the fall colors during the 11th annual Twin Rivers Challenge. Cyclists from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, New York, Tennessee, and Alabama joined together for the ride that sponsors student scholarships at TFS.

The October 25th event raised nearly $90,000 for the school’s scholarship fund — a record achievement met with gratitude from the TFS community. “I just love yelling ‘yay’ for the riders,” said Gracie Ingram of Demorest. “I just love this!”

Sponsors and community support

TFS students Waldon McInTosh, Louis Lenain, and Sid Sharma, along with other students, cheer for Glad Puscasu as he finishes the 25-mile route on Saturday. Five TFS students made up the group of over 250 cyclists that took on the Twin Rivers Challenge.

TFS President and Head of School Dr. Larry A. Peevy thanked the many partners and participants who made the event possible. “The RCCI and Springer Mountain Farms allow every dollar raised from sponsors and rider registrations to go directly toward student scholarships,” Peevy said. “We are deeply grateful to our volunteer scholarship committee for sharing the TFS mission so effectively with the community.”

Ron Cantrell Construction, Inc. served as the presenting sponsor, underwriting all event expenses, while Springer Mountain Farms provided the post-ride meal.

Before riders departed, Peevy shared his appreciation and encouraged them as they set out on their routes.

Campus-wide collaboration

Jeremy Walker of Toccoa and Susan Nichols of Clarkesville, along with other riders, make their way on the 46-mile route. The weather was perfect for the 11th Twin Rivers Challenge.

According to Director of Communications Elisha Boggs, the success of the Twin Rivers Challenge reflects a true team effort. “Seeing all those riders enjoying the day and knowing the impact their participation makes was inspiring,” Boggs said. “Our faculty, staff, students, and volunteers all came together to make this event possible. Riders told us they can’t wait to come back next year, and that’s the best compliment we could receive.”

Throughout the day, TFS students, teachers, trustees, and volunteers — including paramedics from Habersham County — staffed rest stops, handed out snacks and drinks, and offered encouragement along the way.

The Twin Rivers Challenge not only celebrated the beauty of Northeast Georgia but also showcased the power of community coming together for education.

The 12th annual Twin Rivers Challenge will return on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

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