Sunday was the last night of the Austin leg of the Bicycle Film Festival. The organization and support of the local cycling community this year far surpassed last years hastily put together stop. Five days of activities offered something for everyone from music to rides to alleycats to bike polo to a whole lot of films. They even supported our local Yellow Bike Project with a benefit at the Saturday night afterparty. Plus some sessions features interesting Q&A sessions at the end to enhance the experience.

I do have a few gripes with this generally well done festival. The lack of bike parking at the first two nights of activities was disconcerting, and while I was happy to see racks provided by Bicycle Sport Shop at the movie showings, the racks were insufficient for the need.  (I was told to lock my bike elsewhere because it took up too much room!)

The other issue is timing. Mid-August is not the best time to have a festival in Texas. Last year’s festival was in the more reason climate of October. I understand that scheduling this international fest out is difficult, but a more temperate part of the year would allow more outdoor activities. On the flip side, the BFF didn’t have a whole bunch of other festivals and events or UT football to compete with.

I have to commend Austin Producer Jeannette Olivas and volunteer coordinator Brian Davies on doing a fabulous job in promoting the festival, working with the cycling community, and putting on a great event. The crowds were large and the films were great. Bring on BFF 2010!