26 January 2010 - 7:12Gravel Grinder 2010

That’s right, even though it’s January and is raining cats and dogs here in the north east, it is time to start thinking about riding bikes.I am talking about the third annual Gravel Grinder in Waterbury VT, which will take place on April 18th.  Even though we have expanded the number of spots available to 150 riders, this event sells out every year. Don’t procrastinate, get signed up! Click on the banner link to the right, or right here.

Our first year (2008), we weren’t exactly sure what to expect, so we had planned on 50 riders. Well, the week before the ride, everyone decided to sign up, and I estimate we turned 30-40 people away, and we still ended up with 60 or so on the course.

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Last year, we increased the number of riders to 100, and again, we were over full by ride time. We ended up rolling 120 or so.

This year, we are sticking to 150 riders. It does become a bit of a chore to manage things at this level, and we want to keep the quality high, so there will be absolutely no exceptions. Not signed up? Not riding. I hate telling folks no, but I have to draw the line someplace.

There will also be a few changes to the route this year. I haven’t completely ironed them out, but I want to add a little more “adventure” to the main loop. It will be optional for the faint of heart. Look for course details to come in the following weeks.

We will have a yet-to-be-confirmed post ride meal provider this year, I’ll provide details as that shakes out, but I am very happy that this is in the works. Last year, I ran the two grills, and it was a bit overwhelming at times.

Any way you slice it, it’s going to be a great time.