Paraskavedekatriaphobia, as I'm sure you know, is the fear of Friday the 13th. Millions of people the world over share this fear, most particularly in English speaking countries for some reason.

Wikipedia says, "Strangely, there is evidence to suggest that Friday the 13th is actually unlucky. Psychologists have found that some people are especially likely to have accidents or fall ill on Friday the 13th [citation needed]. This has been attributed to such people feeling a heightened state of anxiety on that day. The Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina estimates that in the United States alone, $800 or $900 million is lost in business each Friday the 13th because some people will not travel or go to work. [1]

The date is also well-known in the motorcycle (biker) community: since 1981, motorcycle enthusiasts and vendors gather every Friday the 13th in Port Dover, Ontario, Canada. This tradition started on November 13, 1981 by Chris Simons as a gathering of approximately 25 friends. The event has grown substantially, with an estimated 100,000 people attending in August 2004, as well as music bands, vendors, a bike show, etc."

So, I'm proposing a RAP -- a Ride Against Paraskavedekatriaphobia on Friday, October 13th, by all interested BF 50+ riders.

We could pledge to ride thirteen miles, or any multiple thereof. We could enjoy one piece of pie for each thirteen miles ridden. We can show the world that there's NOTHING to fear about Friday the 13th, but, in fact, it makes for a heck of a good excuse to go for a ride.

So -- who's up for joining me a week from Friday for a special first annual 50+ RAP?