Take advantage of spring with upcoming rides
MARCH RIDES Local and regional bicycling events are on tap this month. Photo: Curt Hentschke
Let’s get the bad news out of the way first. Have y’all heard? The Amgen Tour of California has unfortunately been placed on hiatus for 2020. It was always a real treat watching the pros race through our neck of the woods! Organizers maintain that a change in “business fundamentals” was the reason; let’s hope they can find a way to bring it back in 2021.
Pedaling into more pleasant pastures, last year’s grueling Cat’s Hill Classic was cancelled; according to the internet, however, the San Jose Bicycle Club is “…organizing to put on Cat’s Hill in Los Gatos on March 21.” Fantastic news for all levels and categories of rabid racers. In the past, this killer has featured 23 percent grades (up Nicholson Avenue) and downhill speeds of up to 50 mph. Obviously, spectating is fun, too!
The following Saturday, March 28, it’s all about the ladies. The annual Cinderella Classic returns to Pleasanton, offering up short, classic and challenging routes (31, 65 and 100 miles, respectively). As always, this very popular ride is fully supported.
Remember, bicycle events like the aforementioned often sell out, so be sure to register sooner rather than later. Oh, and remember that your local bike shops (Off the Chain, Sunshine, Bike Therapy, et al) often sponsor rides for different ability levels. Take advantage of the springing of spring and get out there and ride!
Save the Dates
March 14: Solvang Century, bikescor.com
March 14: El Granada 200k/San Gregorio 125k, santacruzrandonneurs.org
March 21: Cat’s Hill Classic, Los Gatos, catshill.org
March 28: Cinderella Classic, Pleasanton, valleyspokesmen.org
April 25: Tierra Bella, Gilroy, tierrabella.org
April 16-19: Sea Otter Classic, Monterey, seaotterclassic.com
May 9: I Care Classic, Morgan Hill, icareclassic.org
Curt “Cycle Guy” Hentschke has pedaled more than 60,000 miles of South Valley and San Benito County trails. Send your cycle celebrations to [email protected]. Check for last minute changes before attending.
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