Burkes Garden Century
What
This century (102 mi) and metric century (62 mi) has become a tradition for the New River Valley Bicycle Association since 1997 when a long-time member initiated this ride for a casual outing to avoid campus traffic on Move-In day for Virginia Tech. This ride has rapidly gained popularity as a fast, easy century for anyone who loves to ride bicycles. Many novice cyclists enjoy this century as their first, while advanced riders test their hammering ability to plug out 100 miles at a fast pace.
The ride is supported with SAG vehicles, regular port-a-potties, and gas stations for food at Rocky Gap (21 mi & 83 mi) and lunch stop at Mattie’s Place in Burke's Garden (56 mi). Bring cash (since not all stores have credit card machines) in some small bills (since the stores can get overwhelmed changing $20s for riders).
Where & When
The ride is on Saturday, 24 August 2024.
The century ride leaves at 8:00 AM from the football field parking below Narrows Elementary School on Monroe Street:, Narrows, VA, and travels along Wolf Creek up to Rocky Gap.
The metric century riders join the fun in Rocky Gap, starting from the Rocky Gap Elementary School at 9:15 AM.
All participants continue toward Tazwell, turning in Gratton to climb over Rich Mountain into Burkes Garden. There you can pick up lunch at Mattie's Place: fresh-made sandwiches, hand pies or doughnuts or whatever they have baked that day. Climb back out of the Garden and enjoy a gentle downhill cruise back to Narrows. A whopping 1% downhill grade for 40 miles to make you turn just a bit faster!
The route is here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/15346597
How (To Register)
The registration link is here. You must also complete the online ride waiver before the ride.
Advance (online) registration cost is $15 for current NRVBA members and $35 for non-members.
