2010 Chelan Century Challenge June 26th

This year’s Chelan Century Challenge is on Saturday, June 26th:

http://www.centuryride.com/index.php?page_id=236

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 eastside 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.

I had such a great time in 2009 that I wrote a blog about it:

http://tomsbicycleblog.blogspot.com/2009/06/tour-de-chelan-century-challenge-on-6.html

I know people who drive over and back, and do the event in one day. This makes for a long day, but a very worthwhile one.

I hope to see you in Chelan on the 26th.