Hell of Hunterdon Opens

Dear Reader,

In a haze of a wicked cyclocross hangover, digging out from Snowzilla Jonas, and getting excited for worlds this weekend, I find myself diving full on into the off season, and dreaming of new adventures...

That time I had to judge a pie contest at work...

Looking back at the season, I remember Mr. Joe, Luxy and I sitting on the trainers warming up for our races and we would talk about the local spring classics.

"The Hell of Hunterdon is a great event!" Luxy would say. "Half the guys in our race will be there, it's really fun, and challenging- something good to keep the fire rolling in the off season. It's not a race, but it's good fun."

I would ask, "Dude, how long is that?"

"I don't know 85 miles or so" Johnny would say with a smile.

"Not for me man. 50 miles or so is my limit, I just don't enjoy riding much longer than that. It's just not good for my constitution! Is there a shorter loop?"

John would frown at me, "shut up, you'll be there..."

I just smiled. Lux knew. The seed was planted.

2016 is a different season for me:  by plan, as opposed to by injury, I'm not planning on racing this spring and summer.  I posted that my next race wasn't until next September recently on the Social Medias. While being hurt sucked, it was nice to get some stuff done around the house last year. Our neighbors asked if we were moving. Seriously.

With that idea in mind, and with John's endorsement, I've been taking a good hard look at the Hell of Hunterdon, and the other rides by the Kermesse Sport group: Sourland, The Fools Classic and Fleche Buffon. While it's doubtful I will tackle more than one of these rides, they all look very compelling. Registration opens tomorrow for all of them...

From recent experience, I know that Grand Fondo style rides are really fun (the Bicycling Magazine, and JAM FUND FUNDO are incredible) and with those experiences, I'm excited to be looking at few new events this spring.

The race before the race: this is what we old masters riders refer to as the race to get registered for the big cross races, as our classes sell out. I'll admit, I didn't think that would be a worry with Grand Fondos. I was wrong. On New Year’s Eve at midnight,  I registered for the Lu Lacka Wyco Hundo (I'm doing the 1/2). I proceed to watch the event sell out in less than 12 hours...

Needless to say, I'll be ready for the race before the ride?

Not sure I'll be ready for the actual 85 miles, but that's a concern for another day...

Gotta admit, this is giving my cyclocross hangover a little relief...

Hair of the dog that bit you? Maybe.

thanks for reading.

respect

fatmarc