Michael Egbert typically takes on the role of  “sweeper” during bicycle rides with the local Columbia group, Street Meat. He ensures the group doesn’t leave behind any riders and he is the first cyclist that rear approaching motorists see. “I think it’s important to catch the eyes of drivers behind us as quickly as possible and to also give them an unexpected but positive sight for them to slow down, take it all in and take an extra moment to decide how they want to drive around/engage us,” says Egbert, who hand built the disco ball set-up after a last minute push to officially participate in Friday night’s Famously Hot South Carolina Pride parade.

Egbert describes Street Meat as an inclusive bike community with LGBTQ members, looking to knock down barriers to cycling. He says the the reflective suit and disco ball was inspired by performances by Elton John and the Flaming Lips. The parade, first held in 2012, is one of the first events kicking off the largest LGBTQ+ event in the state. Saturday’s events take place from noon to 11 p.m.