As the BP MS150 draws near, cyclists in Houston begin to remember that there are these things they call "hills" when you get closer to Austin. If you want to get in some hill training in Houston, you seem to be left with two options: either ride back and forth over freeway overpasses or find a deserted parking garage. Note to those choosing option two: don't forget and stand up!
In fact you have other options, and one of them is to take a trip to Austin and actually ride some hills. The organizers of the MS150 figured that out when they added Austin-area events to their list of recommended training rides. One of those events is the 8th Annual Spokes 'n' Spurs, which will take place Saturday, March 31, 2012. This ride, a benefit for Spirit Reins Ranch, takes place west of Liberty Hill, TX; northwest of Austin on the north shore of Lake Travis.
Registrants may choose among five courses: a 6-mile family ride or 14-, 28-, 44-, or 62.5-mile courses on paved county roads, some wandering through Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Refuge. All registered riders may also participate in a 5K or 10K brick workout following the ride, for the triathlete types among them. Everyone gets a fully-supported ride with SAG, mechanical support, and volunteer-staffed rest stops.
Registration is available on-line at Active, or by mail using the printable form at the Spokes 'n' Spurs website. Fees are $35 per adult, $10 per child (12 and under) until March 12; $45 and $15 after March 1. Walkup registration is available at packet pickup locations in Austin (none in Houston) or at the starting line. Add another $10 (adult) or $5 (child) for admission to the post-race party and face-stuffing.
Besides the ride and the brick workout, Spokes 'n' Spurs will also raffle off a custom-built Giano carbon-frame bike and other items to be announced. Tickets cab be bought on-line, by mail, or at the event. Hard-core types can also register for a cash purse, to be distributed to the first three men's and women's finishers of the 62.5-mile course.
Details to note: Limited to 1000 riders, t-shirt selection is first-come, first-served. ANSI or Snell certified helmets required. Staggered start time beginning at 8:30 AM, SAG support ends at 2:30 PM. The start line is about 30 miles northwest of Austin; just under 200 miles from central Houston. Unless you're way west of town, the northern route along 290 is probably most direct; pick up US 183 northbound as you enter metropolitan Austin. For detailed directions, visit the official website of Spirit Reins.
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