I Love Cycling Fans

2012-02-20T17:08:00.000-08:00

I no other sport do the spectators get so close to the action that they sometimes become a part of the story. We've seen it before in epic Tour de France stages where the fans get so close that they actually take down a rider. What amazes me the most is that this doesn't happen more often. But these rare rider/spectator clashes do nothing to dim my love for cycling fans. Their enthusiasm, creativity and dedication to the sport of cycling is truly something to behold.
So, what makes someone stake out a spot on the route, days in advance, wear the craziest outfit, just for a chance to cheer on the peloton as it snakes its way up the mountain pass? I guess it's the same dedication that brings the fans out to Green Bay Packers football games wearing cheese on their heads in 30 below temperatures...these people are just NUTS! But god love them, for without them along to road or in the stands, our sports wouldn't be the same.
So next time you are out at a race, make sure to ask these crazy fans what they do when they aren't standing on the road wearing a spiderman outfit. I think you will find that they really are normal people, just like you.

See you on the side of the road.

It's all about the journey

2012-02-08T17:44:00.000-08:00

Awhile back, I asked a seasoned veteran of Century rides what he liked so much about riding a Century. His response to me was that it was like combining all of the highlights of the Tour de France into one epic ride. He further explained that 100 miles is long enough for you to experience the many different elements of a bicycle ride. The weather changes, the terrain changes, the scenery changes,your riding companions change, your physical abilities change, not to mention the change in time from an early morning start to a mid-day finish.

So, while I was looking at several route options for this years Great Western 100 Century & Metric Century, I thought a lot about this. There may not be a "perfect" ride, but by including these many elements of change, we might just have something special. After riding and driving the planned Century and Metric Century routes, I think we have some amazing routes this year. New for this year will be options for those who want a bit more climbing, although you will be challenged to climb the infamous Old Creek Road on all routes.

Here is a quick look at the planned routes:
Century - 100 miles with 4,800 ft of elevation gain.
Century (Ralph's Route) - 100 miles with 7,500 ft of elevation gain
Metric - 60 miles with 3,900 ft of elevation gain
Metric (Ralph's Route) - 70 miles with 5,200 ft of elevation gain

All routes include highlights from the east and west side, with beautiful open roads and some challenging climbs. While out riding the Metric (Ralph's Route) this past Saturday, I couldn't help think about the Century veterans remarks. The ride was so incredibly amazing, challenging, beautiful and epic. I had the feeling of reading a great novel, with each chapter better than the last.

I can't wait for May and seeing the Century and Metric Century riders hit the finish line. I think we will see some pretty tired riders, but with very large smiles on their faces.

Time to start training now! See you in May.

Great Western Bicycle Rally

I Love Cycling Fans

It's all about the journey