b_young

I rode the 100 mile ride. I met someone who had only rode 60 to that point. We were riding with a couple of groups up to the 70 mile point. Then, he needed a little extra time at the rest stops. So, I hung back with him for moral support and at the end of the day we made it to the finish and BBQ was waiting.
My only centuries have been solo to my in-laws up to that point. I have been in a few 40-60 mile rides with groups and I have a couple of group centuries scheduled later this year. There were 4 other people there from my corporation but I have never met them and didn't get to ride with them. I got a good taste of how my new bike will do on a group ride and I liked it. I was wanting to ride all of it with a group and see how fast I could go for a long time. This was my first century that was flat. But watching the guy cross the finish line with the WoW I actually did it look was more satifying than anything. He said if I had not stayed with him he would have given up around 80 miles.

laduckslayer

Did they incorporate the infamous bridge in this route? I rode it in 2006(?) right after the bridge was opened and it was a good ride. The support volunteers and sponsors were great. I remember the Arkansas State Police gave a four or five vehicle escort for the last rider. That was really remarkable because he was more than hour off the pace. They surrounded him with the cruisers to allow the highway to open back up, but stayed with him so that he could finish. Good story and a good ride. Hope you enjoyed it.

b_young

We did not ride the Big Dam Bridge. The event has always been well organized I really enjoy it. We were the last two to finish, no police escort though.
Looking foward to next years ride.