It may be sick, but I really look forward to the annual Penance 100+. There’s something about getting up early on New Year’s Day, suiting up, and committing to doing a long, and somewhat challenging ride. Everyone is smiling. It’s like we all are sharing a secret. The secret isn’t all that deep. We’re going for a long bike ride. We’re capable of doing it. In the Winter. After the Holidays.
This ride goes rain or shine. There is no rain date. Do consider, there is no such thing as bad weather, only poor clothing choices.
There is a shorter “bail out” option of about 65 miles. One could turn back even sooner. There have been years when we all turned and rode back about midway to Pine Mountain. It’s pretty flexible.
What you won’t find on this ride: Lots of organization. Staffed SAG stops. Road paint. Lots of traffic.
So plan to self-support and be flexible. Dress for the weather. Bring food with you. Load at least two water bottles. Bring some cash, but expect open stores to be few and far between. Usually there is a good store in the town of Pine Mountain, and another in Warm Springs. Store accommodations in Greenville and Gay have been pretty sketchy in the past.
Why do it? Bragging rights. Prove to yourself that you are still “here.” Sick Twisted fun.
Who will be there? Who knows? But we always have a fair number of die-hard folks out to do this one.
I don’t want to be left alone out there. Talk to somebody. Arrange to ride together. Be honest about your intentions and capabilities, and you will find someone to ride with. Remember, this is a ride where a bit slower often makes a lot of sense.
Looking farther ahead and farther away. Here’s one running in central Virginia in May. The area is nice cycling country, and the climate in Virginia is delightful in mid-spring. For information go to Http://www.cvbikefestival.com/
Tomorrow: A plan for riding the Penance 100+
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