1 Week to Go

This was the scene today.

Sideways snow on the climb up Perry, rain on the back side, and lots of wind.
DA and I checked out the first and last climb of the big Gravel Grinder. The roads are in really good shape and the weather is supposed to be in the 60s and somewhat sunny all week. I think the ride will be really fun. The super-duper long range forecast is calling for good weather next weekend. I had fun riding in the snow today, so whatever the weather, I know I'm ready.

I'm pleased to announce that Pop Soda VT is going to be providing some of their delicious micro-brewed soda for the event. These guys are a small operation on the south end of Waterbury, and they make the best soda you will ever taste. I'm a big sucker for the lemon lavender with ginger, mmmmmm...

The start point will be in the parking lot of the Pilgrim 5 building, just behind the newly refurbished Train Station. The original start point was Rusty Parker Park, but it is going to be used for a wedding. An outdoor wedding in April? Good luck to the bride and groom.
This will not significantly change the route however, as all the aforementioned locations are within spitting distance of each other.

Important things for participants to know:
1. The big hills are all paved, and there are only a couple of spots where poor unpaved road conditions may put the big hurt on you.
2. This is not a race, it is a social event. Be supportive of your fellow rider.
3. The ride is on rural roads, expect to see cars, trucks, and possibly hostile rednecks who are mad that they can't ride their 4 wheelers or snow machines. Obey all traffic laws, and ride single file when encountering any vehicles.
4. This is not a race! TAKE YOUR TIME. Enjoy the scenery.
5. There will be a sag wagon at Hope Davey Field in Waterbury Center. There will be recovery drinks, PB&Js, and for those that can step up, maybe even a few PB&Rs. This is the halfway point. Anyone not feeling up for it has the option of peeling out, but they will need to ride back to town under their own power. It is a flat ride, so if you've bonked, you will easily be able to make it after refueling.
6. We'll have a couple of trucks patrolling the route, making sure that no one gets left along the way.
7. The last hill (Blush) will be optional to those who are not feeling it. It is a steep bugger.

There will be a pre-ride meeting at 8:45am. Participants are asked to be at the start point at 8 for registration, and the following pre-ride meeting. We'll be going over the finer points of the event, so you'll want to be there.