Cyclists in Central Virginia have enjoyed many warm days this winter. The temperatures have been spring-like for much of January and February.
As spring approaches, cyclists hit the trails and roads across Central Virginia. Many cyclists are training for upcoming spring and summer events.
Three events which take place in Central Virginia draw many local participants, as well as cyclists from around the state. You can register at the links for each event.
The Storming of Thunder Ridge will take place on May 19, starting at the Jamerson YMCA. There will be four routes for cyclists, ranging from 27 miles to 100 miles.
With the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop and challenge, cyclists can't go wrong as they ride at their own pace.
This year, cyclists will have the option of camping on the YMCA's soccer field the night before the event, with use of the Y's pool, sauna and other facilities.
The 75-mile metric and 100-mile century rides include the 13-mile ascent of Thunder Ridge, the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, followed by a rest stop and fast descent from the Parkway.
There are rest stops every 15-20 miles and there will be mechanical help available along the course. There's a celebration at the end of the ride with food, drinks and free massages.
The Bike Virginia Tour will be held over a six day period from June 21-26.
Participants can choose single day rides, multiple days or the all-inclusive package. Most days, there will be multiple route choices, with varying distances and difficulty levels.
Loops rides will start in Buena Vista on the first three days, with camping available at Glen Maury Park. Those who prefer not to camp can stay a short distance away in Lexington.
The fourth day's ride will be a one-way ride to Botetourt, ending at Greenfield Recreation Park, where camping will be available. Those who prefer not to camp can stay nearby at Troutville.
On Tuesday, June 25, the fifth day, loop rides will be in the Roanoke region and the final day's ride will be a one-way ride back to Buena Vista on Wednesday, June 26.
The Angels Race Triathlon began in 2003 with 100 participants as a memorial triathlon. Many of those participating had "Brittany" written on their arms, racing in honor of Brittany Grover, who died in an automobile accident in November 2002.
This year's race will be held on April 14. The race begins at Lynchburg's Downtown YMCA and includes a 300-meter pool swim, a 25K bike course, and a 5K run.
Participants can register as individuals or as a relay team. Registration is open and will be limited to 400 participants.
The event, which includes a College Challenge, draws cyclists, runners, swimmers and triathletes from Central Virginia and beyond. JMU's team, which included 44 participants, took last year's College Cup as many fans cheered them on.
The Angels Race offers participants the opportunity to honor the angels in their lives while encouraging them to be angels in the lives of others.
Registration is open for all of these events but don't wait too long or you may miss out. Check out the article below for more information about cycling in Central Virginia. You can also read more about last year's events.
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