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Mount Greylock Photo: Kim Morris |
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Weekly
Rides |
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Greylock Century & 1/2 Century Saturday, August 12th,
2006 Berkshire Mall REGISTRATION: on line at BikeReg.com, or at the ride start The century is on for 2006.
The same route as the past few years will be offered for the full century and for this year, the 1/2 century, will actually be a METRIC CENTURY. It has been evident that many riders have concerns with the descent of Mt. Greylock. This new route will head straight up Rt. 8 from the start, then follow the main course until rt. 116 in Plainfield, and then make its way back to the finish in a more direct route. Lots of climbing, and a way to interact with more people along the way. This is in no way an easier route than before, but will offer riders to test their legs on some beautiful roads in the Berkshires. New Start/Finish for 2005
There is only one minor change for this year’s edition of the Mount Greylock Century. The start will be moved to the beginning of the Ashuwillticook Trail, located one mile north on route 8 from the old start location (left at the Pittsfield/Lanesboro town line). This will keep the distance of both rides the same, using the same roads. This new start will allow you to choose between route 8, or the scenic rail trail to start your journey. Much of the ride will be the same so you can expect Mount Greylock to have very rough roads. The Bumps are marked, but caution is more than recommended. Last year we saw a few riders brought home early, so please keep it slow so that we can keep this ride going. The roads open up for you once you’re off Mount Greylock and the ride is tons of fun. The climbs keep coming so be sure that you gear your ride appropriately (39 x 25 or lower). We’ll keep you topped off, you just need to get your legs ready for this one. It’s a good idea to think about nutrition. Cytomax has helped us stay hydrated, but food for you muscles is also very important. E-caps has also stepped up to help you make it through your ride. The right nutrition can help you meet your goals easier than you could have dreamed. Sign up at BikeReg.com or come the day of, and remember all registrations received before August 4th will receive a t-shirt with your registration. All proceeds go to further developing the Berkshire Cycling Associations junior program. Thanks for reading Joe Bazzano Event Organizer GPS
confirms total climbing to be at 9,854 ft. !
That's right, the new route is more scenic and offers challenges that rival the best. Both the century and half century will use the same routes that we have been using over Mount Greylock, and then follow separate paths after the decent off of the mountain. Riders should be aware that the roads are still in great need of repair on Mount Greylock (much like the classics that are ridden in Europe). Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts and has been the reason for many riders to attempt such an awesome event. The second half of the century will once again follow the more pristine, but demanding, route that was seen last year. This decision was made after asking many of the participants from last year (after they had a few days to think about it). The one section that encounters traffic is in North Adams, at 10:00 - 11:00 am (30 miles into the ride). North Adams has been voted one of the top 5 places to live in New England, and has done much to improve it's image over the past few years. The ride is tough, any gears that you have you'll use, so choose the smallest gears you may own. There are many steep climbs and some decents have rough pavement. The hills keep coming right up until the end! There will be 5 sag-wagons for the day, so there should be plenty of food. There are T-shirts for the first 75 pre-registered entrants this year and we hope to have a new supply of water bottles before August! We look forward to seeing you. All funds will go to support the BCA Junior racing program. Please check for updates before the
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Copyright © 2007 Berkshire Cycling Association