Chelan Century Challenge June 26, 2010
 

We need riders interested in accepting the Challenge. The Chelan Century Challenge will take place at Don Morse Park in Chelan WA on June 26, 2010. The Challenge consists of three (3) loops, each between 30 to 40 miles in length, combining challenging hills with captivating scenery. Each loop has an elevation gain of more than 2,500 feet with all three loops totaling 8,606 vertical feet of elevation gain. Riders are encouraged to complete all three loops in sequential order, but are free to ride only the first loop or the first and second loop if they wish. The ride passes through orchards and vineyards into the mountainous terrain surrounding Lake Chelan; one of the world’s most spectacular glacial carved lakes with some of Washington State’s most impressive scenery. This is a great ride ranked last year by some as one of the 4 best rides in WA.

Check this out at http://www.chelancenturychallenge.com

Sorry we are doing the Cycle de Vine that day

The course is designed by the same guy who did the Death Ride, IIRC. One of these years I'll make it over there for it. This year, the C1200 kicks off that day and I'll probably be doing volunteer work for that.

I'm gonna be there with a group of friends. Some doing the vine ride; others the century. Should be a fun weekend

Tom Meloy and the Chelan Century Challenge
 

What does Tom Meloy say about the Chelan Century Challenge? (http://tomsbicycleblog.blogspot.com) Tom is Cycling coach for Cycle University (cycleu.com), has written a fitness and cycling column for The Cascade Courier since 2005, he rides around 10,000 miles a year and climb over 500,000’ per year and has served on the Cascade Bicycle Club Board of Directors amongst other things.

Tom's comments: For my money, this is one of the very few events that should not be missed. The 2010 date was shifted in order not to conflict with the Tour de Blast, another one of those few events in my opinion.

It’s a bit of a drive to Chelan, but well worth it for some of the best riding in the state. Put together fantastic climbs (8600’ of them, including the very tough McNeil Canyon), light traffic, and great east side weather and you have the formula for a lot of fun. Combine this with the fact that the Chelan Century is small (around 300 riders), very reasonably priced, and yet incredibly well supported; well there you have it.

Perhaps the best thing of all is the vibe. Instead of the usual team “race the event” mentality, Chelan seems to attract riders who don’t take themselves too seriously, and are just there to have a good time. For those who do want to be serious, the organizers time the riders up McNeil Canyon, so you can see how you stack up if you want to.