Northeastern Centuries

[natheless]

This is not a supported century - but I grew up in this area, and I think it will be a lovely ride.

Mid-Hudson Valley – Saturday, October 15th &&

The final tour of the 2005 season holds special meaning for your Tour Coordinator as it travels through the area in which I was born and raised. The ride will occur during peak foliage season in the Hudson Valley, which will only serve to enhance the natural beauty of this region. There are no extended climbs on this tour – just 105 miles of scenic highways and byways through the rolling countryside of Dutchess County. While much of the region has been impacted by residential development, this tour will guide you past farm pastures and orchards that still retain their rural character. As an added bonus, a portion of the route will travel along the magnificent Hudson River, offering the cyclist spectacular views of the river and its surroundings along with glimpses of the distant Catskill Mountains. The Mid-Hudson Valley Tour is sure to provide a memorable conclusion to the 2005 Challenge Tour Series.

See "events" http://www.nbwclub.org/

[wavedancer]

I am planning on doing my first century this year and would appreciate any thoughts on which Northeast century might be best-suited for a first-time rider. Frome these previous posts I am thinking Blazing Saddles, Seacoast, or Flattest Century in the East. Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks,
Linda

[DeniseGoldberg]

I'm not much for large group rides these days, but that said, I do like the Seacoast Century. It covers some beautiful territory (that I ride on my own), but it also has a unique start. Instead of a mass start, you can start whenever you want after the start time, with the requirement that you are done by 5pm. You still won't be alone out there, it just means that hundreds of people aren't clumped together. Also - if they keep the current format, you can register for Saturday, Sunday or both. Registering for both days isn't twice the cost, and it can give you the option of choosing the better weather day to ride. Unless, of course, you want to ride twice!

--- Denise