Southeast - Fletcher Flyer, near Asheville, NC?
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Itsjustb
01-09-08, 12:12 PM
I'm considering signing up for the local Leukemia & Lymphoma Team in Training group. The century ride they're offering is the "Fletcher Flyer" in/around Asheville. Has anyone here done this ride? What can you tell me about it?
BikeWNC
01-09-08, 02:43 PM
I've done it the past 3 years. It is about as flat a century as you will find in the Asheville area. But it is not flat relative to those outside the mountains. I believe there is somewhere between 4-5K' of climbing on the route. It is well supported and well attended. The only gripe I have with the course is how many times it crosses railroad tracks. I guess that is just the way it is when riding in a river valley and trying to maintain as flat a course as possible.
I remember the Team in training riders on this ride. They all seem to be having a great time. Almost made me want to slow down and join them, but 5.5 hours is long enough for me on the bike.
Kostritzer
05-19-08, 01:33 PM
I was out there on Sunday for the ride. It was a good course and there was plenty of fast sections but there were plenty of hills too. Huge crowd and really good food after. I think the first group finished in 4:20, took me a bit longer. :o
For first timers, it is a fun event but can be difficult if you are a flat lander. It is not as well supported as some rides like SeaGull in Salisbury, Md., in October, but a nice experience. It's a pretty big turn out but most folks do the 50 mi or metric; if you do the full century, the crowd thins considerably. Be prepared for harder climbs in last 35 miles. If possible go with a group because unlike the bigger centuries, there are not enough riders in the last forty miles to consistently share the pull. Food at end was adequate but nothing to write home about. If you register early you get a pair of socks (?), no shirts, decals available. But, if you don't usually do hills, it's the most accomodating century you'll find.
What??? T in T offers organized rides in NC?
Around here you have to raise $3500 to participate in their rides. Way over my budget. :(
Go for it. :thumb: