Noximixon 200k Permanent - Number two of a two brevet weekend!

Paul walks his bike over the Milford bridge on the return to NJ

For my second 200k in as many days I had agreed to meet my friend Paul to ride his Noximixon route.  Our start time is 7:30am at the McAfferty's in Princeton Junction, NJ.  I'm up at 6am to get ready and make the 35 minute drive to the start.  I feel a little stiff from the prior days effort on the Hawk's Nest 200k (see prior post for details).  It takes the next 45 minutes to get the bike and gear  loaded up.  Leaving me enough time for the drive over and  a few spare minutes to wolf down some oatmeal before the start.  All goes according to plan.  I meet Paul in front of the store at the appointed time.  For the first time in memory we actually start a permanent on time.

The route heads through the town of Princeton, then heads to Lambertville where the bridge into Pennsylvania is crossed.  From New Hope. Pa we head to Carversville, then Quakertown, passing by the Noximixon Reservoir, for which the permanent is named.  I notice I don't have the climbing legs that Paul has today. He is out climbing me on all the hills en-route to the first control in Lambertville.

We get through the control smoothly and cross the bridge.  Shortly thereafter I get a flat on the front tire.  It takes forever to find the cause of the puncture.  Paul actually scrutinized the tire and found a tiny sharp gravel fragment embedded in the rubber which barely broke through to the tube.  We lose about a half-hour total with the repair.  When we arrive at Richlantown we are only about 25 minutes ahead of the control close.

After a bite to eat we head to Milford with one big climb in between.  We arrive and are still only 25 minutes in front of the closing time.  We were hoping for a sub eleven hour finish, but we were both kind of doubtful that it could happen. We make quick order of the Milford control.  Our next control is Ringoes where we agree to keep the stop to ten minutes.  We manage to live up to that promise and head east for our penultimate control in Kendall Park.

I notice we have picked up a lot of time since Milford.  With thirty miles to the finish I start doing the math in my head to project a finish time.  I figure it is now possible to meet the original goal, if we keep a good pace and do a super quick stop at Kendall Park. After a quick discussion with Paul the plan is in effect to shoot for under eleven hours.  There are two good sized climbs in front of us the first being Lindbergh Road which climbs up the Sourland Mountain Ridge.  It comes upon us quickly.  The climb starts gradually, then steepens near the top.  I manage to climb steadily avoiding the use of my smallest chain ring. Once over the top it is downhill to Route 518, then a flat run on 518 to Rocky Hill.  We are making good time when we spot a cyclist on the opposite side of the road, who appears to have a mechanical issue.  When we check to see if he needs help he asks if we have an allen wrench.  I see him eyeing up our oversize rear packs.  I'm sure he's thinking there has to be an allen wrench in one of those packs.  We cross over to his side and both produce a multi-tool allen wrench from our packs.   It turned out his saddle had come very loose.  It took him a few minutes to tighten it up and we were all back on our way.  We continue east and pass through the small town of Rocky Hill.  Our final climb appears, which is Old Georgetown Road.  This is a substantial, but manageable climb.  Once to the top we are minutes from our control at Kendall Park. We use an ATM receipt for documentation and continue without delay.

We have only about 11 miles to the end.  The terrain is as flat as a pancake.    I'm tired, but am now smelling the barn.  Paul and I work together smoothly to cover the ground with lots of time to spare.  We pull into the shopping center and obtain an ATM receipt that is stamped at 6:10 pm.  Our total time computes to 10hrs 40minutes.  Right on par with the 200k ridden the day before.  I'm happy with the accomplishment.  It's the confidence boost I needed for the 400k next weekend.

Stay tuned!

Hawk's Nest 200k - Number one of a two Brevet weekend!

Al riding along a rural New Jersey Road near the Delaware Water Gap

 Mid May is usually a pivotal point for me.  The longer brevets are just around the corner and I question  whether I'm prepared.  In prior years I completed a fleche in April which provided the confidence boost I needed.  This season I passed on the fleche due to work obligations.  I needed a substitute.  I'd already completed a hilly 300k on a very hot day in early May.  To top that effort the thing that came to mind was something done on consecutive days.  I had a free weekend and found that the PA Randonneurs were holding the Hawk's Nest 200k on Saturday.  On Sunday, I would schedule a hilly 200k permanent. If I could get through both rides without trashing myself I would feel somewhat ready for what was to come.

Water Gap, PA

 As luck would have it my friend and R12 riding companion Al was interested in doing the ride with me.  We drove together on the hour plus journey to the starting point, at the scenic Delaware Water Gap.  With forms and paperwork ready we check-in with RBA Tom Rosenbauer.  There are eighteen riders gathering in the parking area of the Water Gap Diner for the 7am start.  It's on the chilly side at 54 degrees, but the weather forecast calls for a mostly sunny day with the high near seventy and winds up to 20mph.

Water Gap, PA to Promised Land, PA 34 Miles

After a brief rider meeting we are released by Tom.  We are out of the tiny town in less than half a mile working our way towards some serious climbing.  According to the profile the first section is mostly uphill.  The next control is about 1200 feet higher in elevation than the start with some up and down on the way.  Once the climbing began it was fairly relentless.  It served to warm us up nicely. I started the ride with just a long sleeve under liner, a short sleeve jersey, shorts and knee warmers.  I expected to feel chilly for the first mile or two, but knew that I would warm up quick.  The sun beating down was a big help in that regard as well.  The climbing continued up to a town called Sky Top.  As indicated by the name we would descend some from there to the Promised Land area, which appeared to be a large State Park.  Our control which was just past the I-84 access was an Exxon Mini Mart.  We decided to make short order of the stop and moved through rather quickly.

Promised Land, PA to Barryville, NY - 30 Miles

The next control is over 1000 feet lower in elevation leading me to believe this would be a fast leg.  We are parallel to the Laxawaxan River which is on our right.  The roads are pleasant, the traffic light and the scenery is spectacular.  Fisherman with wading boots are in the river everywhere.  We ride for a time with the RBA, Tom, who caught  up to us along the river.  I enjoy conversing with him for a bit and then we let him go as his pace was a little more than we wanted to muster.  We would see him again at controls and on the route.  Shortly after we came across Harold and Christine who are on their first ever brevet.  They are from Long Island and compete in triathlons.  They reasoned this ride would be good training.  We cross the Laxawaxen River Bridge together and very shortly after the Roebling Aqueduct Bridge where the Laxawaxan joins the Delaware.  The cross of the Delaware brings us into the state of New York.  Just after the bridge we turn right onto NY 97 for a four mile run into the town of Barryville.  I take the lead and hold a steady pace to the control, which is a quaint country store.  I enjoy a sandwich and coffee while chatting with the many riders seated on benches outside the store.  Grace and Laurent who are regulars on our New Jersey rides arrive as well.  It is a very enjoyable rest with good conversation and perfect weather. After a bit we reluctantly push on for the next segment.  Harold and Christine decided to leave with us.

Tom Rosenbauer (L), Larry (Center), Chris (R) at Barryville Control

Barryville, NY to Port Jervis, NY - 18.5 Miles

Photos: Views of Hawk's Nest with Christine in the top photo

This leg wins the prize foe easiest to navigate. It basically follows one route, NY 97, to the next stop.  It also gets my vote for the most scenic as it passes through the Hawk's Nest area which is the rides namesake.  The roadways are pleasant with numerous large rolling hills (250 to 400ft elev gain).  They are not particularly unpleasant to me as we are mostly with the wind.  Al  struggles a bit on this section and we wait for him at the top of some of the climbs.  We use the time to take photos of the stunning scenery.  The Hawk's Nest is a river gorge.  At the highest point the river is hundreds of feet below the roadway.   The scenic value is amazing.  Soon we find ourselves joining NY 6 again and are back into a populated area.  Our control is the Port Jervis Diner just ahead on the right.  Tom is there at the counter and signs us in.  Since we've just eaten at the last control less than two hours ago we forgo food and refill water bottles at the mini-mart across the street. Harold and Christine opt to join us again for the upcoming segment.

Port Jervis, NY  to Layton, NJ -17 Miles

Upon leaving Pert Jervis we cross back into New Jersey where we will remain until the final crossing of the Water Gap to the finish.  In the meantime, we have a control between us and the final control.  This section is relatively uneventful.  While the winds have been strong throughout the day they have not been unfavorable to us.  Mostly we enjoyed tail winds with occasional cross winds.  We make good progress on the quiet northern New Jersey roads and soon find ourselves at another very quaint country store.  After a snack and a coffee five of us depart for the final push home.  We are now joined by Larry, a regular on the PA rides.

Layton, NJ to Water Gap, Pa - 26 Miles

In keeping with the river theme of the ride we depart Layton riding close to the Delaware River en-route to the mother of all river crossings at the Delaware Water Gap.  The riding is quite pleasant with easy to navigate roads.  We stay pretty much together on the rolling hills and pass through the tiny town of Wallpack.  After the little town we are on a park service road for about five miles and then we turn on our road to the finish which is Old Mine Road.  There is about 13 miles of tree lined roadway and one substantial climb between us and the river crossing.  I've ridden this before some two years back on the PA 400k.  I have some recollection of the climb, but Al, Christine and Harold were unaware.  The climb starts steep and stays steep for about a mile and a half.  Since I haven't used the triple chain ring all day I decide to keep the trend alive remaining in the middle ring.  I manage to find a comfortable rhythm and keep it to the top.  I breakaway from our group and catch up to RBA Tom at the very top.  We descend down to the back side of the hill to a stop sign at a T intersection.  At the stop sign I decide to wait for Al.  Tom continued on.  To my delight the first of the group to come flying down the hill was none other than my buddy Al.  He managed to keep a steady pace on the climb leaving the rest of the group struggling behind him.  There is no doubt he is becoming well programmed to this distance. We continue on with the river showing up on our right.  We gain back some of the lost elevation in gradual inclines.  The rest of the group has caught back up.  Al fades a bit on these last few miles.  The effort on the climb had to take something out of him.  The road finally narrows to a point where it is only one lane.  A traffic light, kind of in the middle of nowhere, allows traffic to alternate.  We come across Tom and Grace waiting at the red light.  It is a three minute cycle before it turns green.  When it changes Al has not yet arrived so I decide to wait for the next cycle.  Al comes shortly after the red and we wait the three minutes seeing one car come through the other way.  When our turn comes we ride through and arrive at the bridge high above the river which is part of I-80. We use the pedestrian walkway and enjoy the view of the river far below.  Once across it is a coupe of quick turns to the starting point.  Our finish time is 10hrs 44 minutes, which is a 200k PR for Al by over an hour.  He seemed happy with the accomplishment.

Epilogue

We enjoy a slice of Pizza with a number of the other riders before heading out.   On the way home I get a call from Paul who wanted to ride the 200k permanent with me the next day.  We set a 7:30am start time which will afford me a chance to get a good nights rest and have bike and gear ready.  I'm hoping the legs will be ready too.  Stay Tuned!

NJ 300k Volunteer Ride -- The first hot ride!

 The view of an Allamuchy, NJ farm

This was my third consecutive year riding the volunteer edition of the Princeton 300k and second year as the ride organizer.  I was accompanied by my friend and fellow volunteer Paul.

Princeton to Whitehouse Station 31 Miles 

We departed from the Princeton Forrestal Village lot promptly at 4:00am.  The temperature was already over 60 degrees.  The first thirty miles being almost entirely flat would serve as a pleasant warm up.  We saw as many as 30 deer along the way.  Some were meandering in the middle of the roads.  A donkey greeted us on Summer Road shortly after crossing US 202 in Three Bridges.  I couldn't believe how loud the hee-hawing sound coming from that animal was.  I'm sure no one nearby slept through it.  Daylight began to show itself over the next few miles and shortly after we arrived at The Bagel Junction in Whitehouse Station.  This is our control and breakfast stop.

Whitehouse Station to Blairstown 54 Miles 

After a bagel and coffee we departed in daylight with overcast skies. I removed the arm and knee warmers as the temperature had already broken into the low seventies. The climbing began subtly with a gentle uphill on Rockaway Road next to the river.  Once the little town of Mountainville was reached we felt the first lump on Guinea Hollow Road.  This was just a small prelude of what was yet to come.  The climb is followed by a screaming descent into the little town of Califon.  After negotiating through the tiny downtown area the turn onto Sliker Road was made for what is a serious climb.  As Paul put it "it starts out so unassuming."  From a gentle beginning it would pitch up to a substantial grade.  With the climb behind us we descended to Anthony Road only to have to climb back up to Point Mountain Road which then descends down to the Muscenetcong River.  The descent is a real twisty one and in prior years featured a fair amount of gravel on the road.  I was pleased that this year it was gravel free and reasonably smooth. Although the turns required some braking as they are pretty sharp. None the less I found it to be pretty fun.  We crossed Rt 31 in Mansfield Township and began another climb up to Rockport Road.   A little more uphill once on Rockport and then just rolling terrain with pleasant scenery lead us into the town of Hackettstown.  There was no control here, but given the heat we made a stop to refill water.  There is a Quick Check Market on the route where we did a quick in and out.  The next challenge was the fairly big climb up Ryan Road in Allamuchy Township.  There were a few less sizable hills prior to it and another fast descent.  At Ryan Road I dropped into the granny gear for the first time of the day.  With the mercury rising there were many more visits to granny later in the day.  The climb is quite steep for a bit, but, fortunately is not all that long.  There is a fun descent following, although somewhat hampered by a merge onto Alphano Road. Once on level ground I enjoyed the views of the surrounding farms.  The terrain is flat for a bit as we crossed under I-80 and turned onto Route 612 heading for Johnsonburg.  The views here are equally rural northern Jersey vistas as we rolled smoothly for five miles into the tiny town.  On main Street which is literally one block long we passed the General Store which is habitually closed. Another two miles and we intersected Route 94.  We turned towards Blairstown only to turn off to the north again to undertake a hilly loop to the northernmost point of the route, Stillwater Township.  Which is about as far north as one can go before leaving the state.  This twelve mile section is beautifully scenic, but makes you work for it with pretty significant climbs like Sunset Lake Road.  It took us some time to work our way around and arrive at the control in Blairstown.  We had to utilize a back up control here as the primary one closed early on Sunday.  We stocked up on calories and fluids at Dale's Market and  quickly continued the route headed for Jenny Jump State Forest.

Paul climbs Sliker Road  

Blairstown to Hacklebarney State Park 57 Miles:

The departure from Blairstown is a gradual climb on Route 94 from which we soon turn off of onto Camp Wasigian Road.  There is a minor amount of climbing on the five miles of road to the approach to Jenny Jump forest which serves as a warm up for the three more significant climbs to come before the control at Hacklebarney is reached.  We crossed I-80 for the second time and then arrived at State Park Road which immediately began the climb.  I never know how I will feel on Jenny Jump until I'm on it.  For me it is one of those climbs that never feels the same.  Right away I could tell it was going to be tough, yet I decided to stay on the middle chain ring.  Mashing my way up the steep sections was quite a struggle.  Paul who started the climb in front fell back some.  I could see he was using his granny and I wished I'd made the same decision.  The last part of the climb was fairly excruciating.  I was quite relieved when the pavement finally levelled.  I stopped to wait for Paul who was just a little behind.  When he came alongside he said he needed a few minutes to recover.  I didn't know it yet but he was beginning to get sick.  The day was then very hot. Well into the nineties and I suspected it was beginning to take a toll on us.   After a few minutes rest we resumed riding by flying down the other side of the mountain.  The terrain for the next few miles was quite mild and much needed as there were some big hills not too far ahead that we would have to deal with in the brutal heat.  The first to show itself was Westervelt Road a short but quite steep kicker that can catch one off guard with it's immediate steepness.  I made another visit to granny just before the turn to the hill.  With no expectations other than to make it to the top without walking I grind my way up with Paul slightly ahead, also in the granny mode.  A few more gentle miles delivered us to the town of Washington and an information control at the Anderson Hotel.  We took a minute rest at the control knowing that one of the most brutal of climbs lies just ahead.  That would be Penwell Road which is a seven mile, steep in some places, approach to the top of Schooley's Mountain.  Before starting out I realize I am almost out of water. Paul filled one of my bottles from his camelback.  We planned to stop at the General Store on top of the mountain.  We headed for Penwell Road which is less than a mile from us.  The steep section of a little over a mile was excruciating, but once past the remaining miles weren't too bad.  Paul climbed aggressively on the steep parts putting a bit of distance between us.  Once on the more gradual inclines I was able to crank it up a bit.  I caught back up to him in the next mile.  We rode pretty much together for the rest of the way to the store.  The covered porch in front was an ideal spot to rest for awhile with some calories and fluids.  I noticed that Paul wasn't eating anything.  He said he was stating to feel a little queasy.  The heat was at the peak of the day and at times I was feeling a little wobbly, although my stomach had not rebelled on me.  We took a long break before setting off again.  We wound our way down the mountain with a screaming descent down Naughright Road.  A fun drop, but, somewhat hampered by a hard right on Fairview Road.  Then we turned onto Route 513 towards Califon.  Paul faltered a bit here, but mostly hung tough to the information control in Califon.  We stopped to update our brevet cards with the requested information,  Paul announced that he was feeling awfully sick.  We decided to rest for awhile to see if he could recover.  He was looking pretty ill at this point.  I was hoping that five or ten minutes rest might help him right his ship.  Unfortunately, it was not to be.  After resting awhile he said I should go on without him.  He would call for a ride. The stomach upset was preventing him from eating or drinking.  He was apparently dehydrated with no way to rectify the situation.  After staying with him a bit longer I reluctantly moved on with the agreement that I would call from the next control.  Just past our resting spot was the last major climb of the day on Rt 512.  Another visit to granny got the job done with a few leg twitches that I recognized as pre-cramping.  I am rather prone to cramping in hot weather.  It was a good thing that the last significant climb was behind me.  I arrived at the control with no problem and promptly placed a call to Paul.  He informed me that he had resumed riding and was headed to Whitehouse Station by direct route.  He expected to be there soon and would pick up a ride from there.

Photos:  

Top - Jenny Jump sign    

Middle - Paul on Jenny Jump   

Bottom - My bike resting at Hacklebarney

Hacklebarney State Park to Princeton 44 Miles

Whitehouse Station was on my return route and was only about 14 miles away.  I decided to ride hard in the hopes of catching up to Paul to render any assistance I could until he was picked up.  I descended out of the park to the small town of Pottersville. From there I stopped again to place a call to Paul.  He had indeed arrived at the strip mall at Whitehouse Station but had not been able to reach anyone to pick him up.  He was considering riding the thirty miles to the finish. I did not think that was a good idea. I placed a call to my wife.  Fortunately, she was available and agreed to head out immediately to pick him up.  I called  Paul back and insisted he stay put until she got there.  The route from Pottersville to Whitehouse is mostly downhill to flat terrain.  I rode it hard and arrived there just as Paul and my wife were loading the bike in the car.  Paul looked a little better than when I last saw him, but far from normal.  I was glad he would not be trying to ride back.  After they were underway I put on my night gear and resumed my route to the finish. There was just thirty miles of easy terrain between me and the Princeton Forrestal Village.  At that moment I felt like I could ride another hundred miles.  There is an old expression when it comes to ultra distance, "no matter how good you feel, or no matter how bad you feel......... it wont last."   Truer words were never spoken.  I knocked off about 20 of the thirty miles to the end, putting me some where in the South Branch area, when an overwhelming sense of fatigue hit me. I was struggling to maintain 10-12 mph on level ground.  Small pimple like hills felt like major climbs.  After struggling up a small hill on East Mountain Road I decided I better eat something.  The only thing I had left was a single Peanut Butter Cliff Bar.  I would have preferred a gel or something with a lot of sugar for an energy burst.  But, the Cliff Bar was the only show in town so I ate it while plodding along.  I felt some improvement after a few miles but still was no where near riding strong.  I managed to hold 14-15mph for the remaining miles to the end.  Not my usual, smell-the-barn pace, but it was satisfactory.  I finished at 9:45pm for a total of 17hrs 45min.  Slow, but acceptable given the adverse weather conditions.  When dismounting the bike I had a moment of light headedness that caused me to grab onto my car. Thankfully, it passed quickly.  The first hot ride of the year is always a tough one.  Fortunately, it was over.  Boo-Ya!

Cranbury 200k - Wet and Wild!!

Photo:  The Amusement Park at Keansburg, NJ or was it Maine?

This was my fourth time riding this route.  The first time being in 2007 which was a night start. It was originally called the Shore by Night, as it's loop would take one to various shore towns before turning in-land and returning one to the finish in Cranburry. The other two times were day time rides which were not held as brevets but more as organized practice rides scheduled between some of the longer rides of the season.  This time the ride was a fully accredited ACP brevet.  Wanting to do my part to add to the US total of homologated kilometers I signed up along with my friends Al and Jon.  Our  agreement was that we would attempt to ride fast, under 10 hours.  The flat route should allow for that should it not be too windy.  What we hadn't planned on was rain, cold or both.  One of my riding buddies always said it's one thing to be out there and end up riding in the rain, but totally another to start riding in the rain.  This ride would definitely be the latter as it rained all through the night.  It was coming down steady at the 7am start and worse it was cold (mid forties).  Not by any means a desirable combination.  Amazingly nineteen riders where there to clip in at the start.  Both Jon and Al showed up as agreed neither one even hinting at the idea that we may not want to take the start.  I was proud to be part of this hearty group of riders.

Cranbury to Union Beach - 29 Miles

After the briefest of pre-ride meetings which basically consisted of "Hey it's time to go. See you all later", by Laurent Chambard, ride organizer extraordinaire, we were off.  The three of us found ourselves leading the ride for the first few miles with no one immediately behind.  Then we were caught by Justin from Philadelphia who was spinning quite smoothly at a very nice clip.  We rode together for awhile then decided to let him go as his pace was a little more than we were up to.  Although, Jon probably could have hung with him.  Another rider caught and passed us as well.  I never did get his name, but we would see him at every control from there out.  The first control was at Union Beach, a Burger King on Route 34.  We kept up a good pace and pulled in having maintained a little distance on the rest of the riders.  We had agreed that we would take zero time here.  We verified our brevet cards with Janice, the volunteer, and went back out to the bikes.  The second place rider left just a couple of minutes before us.

Union Beach to Bradley Beach - 32 Miles

The next section was cold and windy as we were riding right by the ocean at times and the off shore wind was horrendous.  When we hit the Keansburg area the wind was right in our face.  I saw Al falter and drop back.  Jon was continuing to spin through the wind and I decided to hang in letting Al get dropped.  It was a hard thing for me to do, as I've done many rides with Al and we've always waited for each other anytime one of us fell back.  But, our agreement on this ride was to ride fast to meet a specific time goal.  That would mean anyone not keeping up the pace would be on their own.   We passed the Keansburg Amusement Park, which was closed up tight.  It had a rather foreboding look to it in this weather.  Kind of like something from a Stephen King novel.  I wondered briefly if there is a Keansburg Maine?  We rode along the shore for a few more miles and then headed for the Atlantic Highlands for a little climbing.  The climb to the top of the Highlands was much appreciated as it warmed us up.  I think both Jon and I needed it.  Once at the top we didn't bother with the scenic overlook which on a clear day one can see the New York Skyline. There would be nothing to look at on such a dreary day and stopping would mean getting cold again.  Instead we did our best to survive the cold descent.  For the next fifteen miles we weaved in and out from the ocean.  The wind coming off the water was quite strong and cold so the time spent on Ocean Boulevard was not very pleasant. Finally we arrived at the Bradley Beach control, the Hess Express.  Laurent was there to sign us in.  We both began shivering as soon as we stopped.  Inside the market was better, but my hands were frozen and would not work properly.  Gripping a cup of coffee was difficult.  Thanks to an electric hand dryer in the bathroom I was able to rectify the situation.  I had a pair of winter gloves with liners in my pack that I decided to wear upon leaving. Back outside we mounted up again having made fairly quick work of the stop despite being so cold. The rain seemed to be a little lighter. No other riders came into the control while we were there. I was hoping Al would meet back up with us, but he never appeared.

Bradley Beach to Jerseyville - 33 Miles

We shoved off for a few more miles of riding beside the ocean and then thankfully turned inland. The wind was no issue in this direction and we were able to maintain a decent pace. We headed through Allenwood, Lakewood and Howell. I for one was feeling decidedly warmer. The rain had actually stopped for the most part only spitting on us every once in a while. We were both riding well giving me a good feeling about our chances of meeting the goal. The terrain remained flat to the control and we arrived at the Jerseyville Wawa as the third riders. The number two rider was still there, but left shortly after our arrival. Janice signed us in again and offered us water and home made brownies. A very nice treat which we briefly indulged in before shoving off again.

Jerseyville to Cranbury - 31 Miles

The final stretch to the finish had a few small hillocks, to use Laurent's wording.   They usually feel good at this point in the ride but I was getting a little tired from holding the brisk pace. Things were looking pretty rosy for our sub 10 hour time and I didn't want to screw it up by fading on these little hills. Jon is a terrific climber who spins up most anything with a high cadence. To stay close to him I needed to stand and sprint up the bumps. It worked okay with Jon only having to ease up a little on a few of the larger hills. The rain was basically stopped. In fact, many of the roads were dry and there was no wind. Cranbury drew near as the roads flattened out again for the final few miles. We entered the small down town area just a few blocks from the finish. We arrived finding Laurent waiting for us in his car. He singed us in at 9 hrs and 39 minutes which would be the third fastest time of the day. Jon and I were both pleased with the accomplishment.

 Epilouge

I found out from Laurent that Al dropped out at the Bradley Beach control having arrived there a mere 15 minutes before the closing time. He had some serious navigation problems and had arrived there cold and miserable. He called family to come to his rescue. Given those circumstances I probably would have packed it in myself. I was glad to learn he was safe.  Rain rides toughen one up even if you don't finish. When I spoke with Al later he said that his main goal, the one he would not let go,  was to stay with us to the first control.  Mission accomplished!!

Easter Sunday P-200k - The Peeps Ride!

Jon cruises en-route to Holland Township and Adamic Hill Road

 And so the season begins with the first of the SR series, the Princeton 200k.  I remember struggling to make it around this fairly challenging route last year aboard the recumbent.  Hopefully, things will be different now as I'm riding the Salsa Casserol upright, and, I've been riding 200k's all winter.  Out of a sense of obligation to my local group, the New Jersery Randonneurs, I offer to hold the volunteer ride, aka pre-ride, which is the weekend prior to the event.  Thereby making myself available to help out on the actual date of the ride.  The pre-ride was set for Sunday April 4th.....Easter Sunday.  Three other volunteers join me on the ride.  A few days prior while stocking up on the obligatory Easter food........."Peeps"......... I pick up a few extra packages for my co-riders.  They actually have some potential as a bike food in that they are super light and consist of mostly sugar. Given the fact that many places to purchase food along the route will be closed, they may come in handy.

I meet my fellow volunteer riders, Janice, Paul and Jon at the Princeton Forrestal Shopping center for a 7:00am start.  Jon has brought with him multiple bags of M&M's, another worthy bike food.   After getting our brevet cards signed at the hotel in the shopping center, which was the only business open, we get underway.  Janice prefered to ride at her own pace.  Opting not to stay together with us.  We exchanged cell phone numbers for emergency purposes before starting out.  The 50F starting temperature feels a little cool, but easily manageable after the tough winter we've just come out of.  The day is forecasted to warm significantly so we will not have to tolerate feeling cold for long. 

Paul enjoys the scenery and the weather on the first leg of the ride

Princeton to Frenchtown 36 Miles

This section starts out with an easy flat ride to the center of Princeton and then uses some very pleasant roads to the quaint little town of Hopewell.  Here we experience our first climb of the day heading up the north side of the Soutland Ridge on Rileyville Road.  It's a pleasant climb with a nice fast descent on the other side, interrupted by an abrupt left turn.  We then use some nice rolling county roads to pass trough Ringoes, Seargentsville and Kingwood.  The traffic, normally light on these roads, is non-existent today. With the brilliant sun and the thermometer rising it is a great day to be on a bike.  After passing though Ringoes, while climbing a steep little kicker on Horseshoe Bend Road, one of Paul's crank arms loosens and slips.  It takes a little while to figure out how to get it lined up again and re-tightened, but with the three of us working on it we manage to get it secure.  At least for the time being.  We then arrive at Frenchtown utilizing the Citgo Mart store as our control.  The actual ride will have a full service, volunteer manned control at the Legion hall, but today we will have to make do.  After a quick snack and the removal of a few layers we head out for the next leg.

Frenchtown to Asbury 26 Miles

We start out gently heading north towards Milford.  I'm noticing the wind is picking up a bit, but mostly on my mind is the steep climb up Adamic Hill Road that is not far away.  Last year I almost fell over on the recumbent trying to make it up this very climb.  I ended up walking almost the entire hill.  Hopefully, things will be different this time.  For now, I push Adamic from my mind and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Deleware river.  The view clear to the Pennsylvania side is striking.  This stretch of nicely paved roads has no shortage of scenic vistas.  I snap a couple of photos of my companions while riding alongside.   Inevitably, the turn to Mount Joy road comes up, the foothill to Adamic Hill.  Upon reaching Adamic I stop at the bottom to snap a photo of Paul and Jon on the start of the climb.  It takes me a minute to get the shot and get started up the climb.  The hill gets pretty steep quickly and stays that way for awhile.  Using the granny gear on the Salsa it's quite managable.  The climb, being less than a mile in length, doesn't last terribly long.  Soon I'm at the top joining my friends and looking at the historic Voledam Windmill, a local scenic attraction.  Appropriately so as we are in Holland Township.  Moving on we encounter more climbing, nothing as steep as Adamic but all take its toll.  The wind is actually relentless at this point and is becoming annoying.  After a screaming descent we start up another uphill entering Warren County and Paul's crank becomes lose again.  We are all thinking this could be big trouble, but fortunately this time we are able to effect a better repair.  Tightening it more securely than we did with the prior fix. It looks like it could go the distance now.  We resume the hill and soon arrive at the Asbury Deli, the half way point control. It is closed up tight.  Anticipating in advance that the control might not be open we make up an information control question to serve as proof of passage.  We ride on hoping to come across an open deli or general store to re-stock water and get some food. 

Jon and Paul begin the climb of Adamic Hill Road.

Asbury to Frenchtown 27 Milles

A serious climb presents itself immediatly after the control.  Fortunately since the control was closed I didn't eat anything, which makes the climb go a little better.  Seven miles later we arrive in the town of Stewartsville where there is a General Store open for business.  We phone Janice to let her know it will be open when she arrives.  We settle in for a nice lunch break.   Upon coming out of the store I notice how warm it has gotten.  I would later learn the high temperature was in the upper eightes.  We are not really acclimated to heat this early in the season.  I've been taking endurolytes all day and am hoping they will keep me from cramping.  There are still a few hills to cliimb.  We move on towards the Riegelsville cut-off which is designated as an information control.  The terrain is gently rolling, although somewhat into the wind, it is quite scenic and enjoyable.  As part of our pre-ride duties we come up with a control question at the Riegelsville cut-off to be used by the main field on the day of the event.  From here the route uses the same roads to Milford and Frenchtown as the outbound.  The ride alongside the river with favorable winds is delightful.  We soon find ourselves back in Frenchtown.  This time choosing the Frechtown Market as our control.  We arrive 10 minutes before the posted 3pm closing time.  The door is locked but after some coaxing the manager admits us.  We promise to quickly get what we need and exit.  We do so and enjoy our snack while sitting on the grassy area in front of the store.  Shortly we are underway again for the final leg.

Jon and Paul on the return to Frenchtown

 Frenchtown to Princeton 38 Miles

With the wind now in our favor this last section should go smoothly.  We start out at a brisk pace, but after a mile or two Paul says he needs to go easy for a bit as he is feeling kind of quesy (maybe peeps and m&m's are not the ideal bike food after all).  We back it down a bit.  However, in less than a mile we are headed up Ridge Road which has a steep short section at the beginning and then continues up gradualy for about two miles. After completing Ridge we work our way up another climb on 519.  Paul is hanging in quite well on the climbs despite not feeling too spiffy.  Next we turn on Oak Grove Road for about  5 miles of flat terrain before it ends with a steep little kicker.  The wind continues to be beneficial and we make good time here.  The hill comes and goes without incident.  I was not looking forward to it but when it arrived it wasn't bad.  A fast descent on Thatcher Hill Road, with a stunning panoramic view, drops us into the town of Flemington.  We wind our way across Rt 31 headed for Ringoes and Manners Road.  I remember Manners for having four sizeable rollers on it.  With lots of miles in the legs it feels tough, but manageable.  With the four knee breakers behind us we make a quick turn onto Lindberg Road, which is the final major climb of the day.  This is a two mile ascent up to the Sourland Mountain Ridge.  The climb begins gently then, as most worthy climbs do, pitches up steeply for the final quarter mile.  The three of us deal with the climb pretty well.  Paul is still suffering, but putting on a strong front.  From here the route to the finish is flat to downhill.  With the wind still in our favor we should make good time.  We drop out of the Sourlands via Hollow Road onto Route 518 east eleven miles from the finish.  A time check shows us with the potential for a finish around the eleven hour mark.  We quickly arrive in the little town of Rocky Hill just a few miles short of the finish. We decide to go hard for the last couple of miles in an attempt to get in just under the eleven hour mark.  Our efforts pay off as we arrive with enough time to run into the hotel and get a documented time of 10hrs 58min. Speaking for myself I am very pleased with the result. We would later learn that Janice finished successfully a short time later.  I enjoyed the ride, the beautiful route, and the good company.

 Paul and yours truly celebrating with Peeps at the finish

 Jon and Paul at the finish thinking about trying Peeps as a recovery food

March R-12 Noximixon 200k! The Final Chapter!

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Photos: Top - Mrs. Al supporting her husband at the Lambertville Control.

Bottom - The two finishers reflecting on a good ride.

I vowed to jump on the first decent weather day in March to complete my R-12 Series.  As luck would have it I would not have long to wait.  The first weekend of the month was predicted to be dry with temperatures ranging from mid-thirties to upper fifties.  I contacted my friend, and R12 riding companion, Al alerting him to the intended Sunday 7am start.  The proposed route was the newly approved Noximixon 200k, designed and owned by my friend Paul.  Al was agreeable with the plan. 

We meet at the Southfield Shopping Center in Princeton Junction a little before the scheduled start.  It's just prior to 7am and the shopping center is very still.  The coffee shop and pharmacy open at 9am.  The food market opens at 7am.  We agree to use the market as our start location, waiting at the door for them to open.  By the time we make a purchase, get documented, and use the rest room, it is eleven minutes past the hour.  I've come to accept a late start as normal for permanents..

Princeton Junction to Lambertville - 26 Miles

Once underway I feel the chill of the morning.  The temperature is a little under 35F with a slight wind.  I'm somewhat underdressed for the current conditions, but it is a very clear day.  I'm confident the sun will warm the air considerably in an hour or two.  I can manage some temporary discomfort.  It beats having to lug a bunch of uneeded clothes around the route for the majortity of the ride. After a few miles we cross US 1 and enter the town of Princeton.  It is eerily quiet at this hour as we pass by the University buildings.  With little to no traffic we are out of town in no time, headed for Pennington on some very nice roads.  With the sun shining, the pleasant scenery and the smooth roads it is a great day to be on a  bike. So far the route is mostly rolling.  However, once we reach Pennington we encounter Poor Farm Road, a fairly steep climb with nice scenery to look at on the way up.  Upon reaching the top Al places a call to his wife to coordinate her meeting us at the Lambertville control with energy drink bottles which were inadvertantly left at home.  Phone call complete we descend the back side of the hill.  The nine miles left to the control are a mixed bag of flat, rolling, and hilly terrian. Valley Road and Goat Hill Road are the final two lumps. The Lambertville control is a flexible one allowing the rider a choice of establishments.  We choose the coffee shop on Bridge Street.  Al's wife is there waiting when we arrive.  After a coffee and muffin we depart headed for PA.  I notice we are leaving with not much time to spare.


 Lambertville, NJ to Richlandtown, PA - 31 Miles

A few blocks past the the control we reach the bridge to New Hope PA.  Riding across the 1/2 mile span is not permitted.  As I'm walking I notice the wind has picked up.  Unfortunately, the direction will not be in our favor on this leg of the route.  I was hoping to pick up a little time to give us a cushion in the event of a mechanical, or other problem.  Given the increased wind and the terrain in front of us that doesn't look likely.  After negotiating the downtown area of New Hope we start with some gentle climbing, with a few steep kickers mixed in.  We pass through Lahaska on Street Road, which features a very steep little climb that I recall falling over on when passing through on the recumbent.  With the ability to stand and leverage the pedals I have no such problem today.  Although, it does take significant effort. We pass through the small little town of Carversville continuing our uphill trend.  Finally, the terrain eases up for a bit allowing us to pick up some time.  We contend with some rollers, and another sizeable climb on Route 313 at Quakertown at which point  we've reache the route's namesake, the Noximixon Resovior.  The remaining roads to the Richlandtown control are quite pleasant.  Were it not for the wind it would be perfect. We arrive at the 7-11 control with little time to spare.  We agree to keep the stop brief.  But with the temperature increase, now mid-fifties, we need to make clothing adjustments, as well as take in some calories.  Our goal is to leave in advance of the control closing time, even if only by fifteen minutes.

Richlandtown, PA to Milford, NJ - 18 Miles

Back on the road with our small time margin in hand we immediately feel the difference with the wind.  Now blowing more in our favor.  I'm encouraged that we may be able to pick up a little time on this leg.  Once again the road selection of the route is excellent.  There is almost no traffic for the first ten miles.  We deal with a few good sized rolling hills which present no problem as the wind, stronger than ever now, is aiding us.  Quickly we are Route 412, which leads us to a climb I've been dreading, Center Hill Road.  I climbed it before with Paul while accompanying him on a cue sheet test of some of the route.  It goes better for me today than the prior time.  Perhaps knowing it was coming helped.  Or, more likely riding the Salsa in lieu of the 'bent was the difference. I didn't even use the triple.  I wait a bit for Al at the top of the hill.  This is his first encounter with this bump and wisely he is climbing it conservatively.  We regroup and undertake the descent to the river.  Which is fast, twisty, and features an abrupt stop at the bottom with a hard right onto Route 32.  We then parallel the river for the next 2 1/2 miles, crossing back over into New Jersey at the Milford Bridge which brings us right to the control, a Citgo Mart.  We are 35 minutes in front of the cut-off.  

Milford to Ringoes - 20 Miles

We are underway having spent 20 minutes at the control.  I know the roads pretty well on this section and am hoping to make up a little more time.  The first few miles to Frenchtown are flat, add to that the wind and we manage a nice pace.  Coming out of Frenchtown we turn onto Horseshoe Bend Road which featrues some short steep climbs.  This is followed by Rt 519 in Kingwood which is basically rolling terrain as are the remaining roads to the Ringoes control.  I notice on the cue sheet that a bank ATM is an optional control should one decide to pass up the deli, which is listed as the primary control.  I convince Al that we should use the ATM through Ringoes to pick up some additional time. He consents providing we spend at least five minutes there giving him an opportunity to stretch.  Upon arrival I handle getting the two bank reciepts from the ATM while eating half a pb sandwich from my pack.  Al stretches out his fatigued legs while waiting for me.  The stop takes us less than 10 minutes.  We depart with 40 minutes in hand.

Ringoes to Kendall Park - 19 Miles

The first section of this segment is on Wertzville Road which takes us across US 202.  Wertzville features more of the rolling variety of hills.  I am quite familar with it having ridden it countless times.  With the wind still in our favor we should do well over the next 4 miles.  I start doing some mental math to project a finish time.  I would like to see us come at 12hrs or less.  That leaves us about 2 1/2 hrs to cover the remaining 30 miles.  Although there are a couple of substantial climbs ahead of us, and we have over 100 miles in our legs, I'm thinking we can make it. Once again I confer with Al laying out the plan.  He is tired, but agrees to give it his best.effort.  In a short time we turn off to the right to face Lindberg Road a sizeable climb up the Sourland Mountan Ridge.  After grinding our way up the two mile hill we have about nine miles of downhill and flat terrain.  Using this to our best advantage will be paramount to meeting the goal.  We do well descending our way down the other side of the ridge.  We then head east on County 518.  With the wind mostly at our tail we maintain a nice pace. I am feeling good at this point pulling us along at speeds between 18-24mph.  We quickly reach the US 206 crossing followed by our turn onto Canal Road and an abrupt climb up Old Georgetown Road.  This being the last major hill between here and the finish.  We both give it a good effort putting the climb behind us without losing much time.  The control, a CVS, comes up quickly.  We clock in at 5:56pm leaving us with 1hour 4minutes to make it to the finish.  With sunset just a few minutes away we need to switch to night gear and full lighting as well as document our passage through the control.  We depart at 6:11pm leaving us 49 minutes to cover the distance and document our finish time.

Franklin Park to Princeton Junction  - 12 Miles

My recollection of the roads on this part of the route are that of the flat and flatter variety.  Although, when we turn onto New Road just a few hundred yards from the control it is somewhat of an uphill for at least two miles. Once past that point it is mostly flat, save for a couple of little bumps.  I'm giving it a good effort with Al hanging right with me.  It's fully dark now which makes the going a little slower.  Navigating in the dark is trickier as well.  I'm not familiar enough with the route to know the turns without the aid of the cue sheet and street signs.  Fortunately, both have been quite accurate so far.  A navigation error at this point would put the goal out of reach.  I take the extra time to pay close attention to the cues and road signs until we are at the point where I know my way.  That point comes up on Plainsboro Road with about 3.5 miles to go. With no further need to navigate I pour everything I have into turning the pedals.  Al falls back at one point.  I ease up a bit to get him back on my wheel.  I announce when we are on the final road to the finish.  We have a little more than a mile to go.  Al gives everything he has rocketing out front and almost dropping me in the process.  I focus solely on spinning fast and smooth for the next few minutes.  Then the shopping center appears on our right.  We are in with a couple of minutes to spare.  The documented time is what counts so we fly up to the entrance of the same supermarket we started out from almost 12 hours ago.  We run to an open register, each grab a pack of gum, I ask the lady for a receipt, while blinding her with my helmet light. In my rush I neglected to switch it off.   She hands the slip over and I look at the time stamp printed on top, it reads 7:00pm exactly!  Boo-Ya!

Epilouge

Back outside the market we ask the shopping cart guy to take our photo.  He graciously agrees.  Taking one with my digital camera, as well as well as another with Al's I-phone.  I'm happy to have the R-12 behind me.  It's been a worthy goal and has kept me motivated during the off season.  The permanent rides were especially enjoyable.  I've developed a new appreciation for their value as flexible and fun alternatives to calendar brevets.  Eight of my twelve R-12 rides were permanents.  All started and finished in New Jersey.  Not a bad thing considering two years ago there were none available in the state.  The Noximixon 200k is a very welcome addition.  I look forward to riding it again.

As for Al he is rapidly becoming a full fledged Radonneur.  He has completed three official 200k's this year, one fourth of the way into an R-12.  He is planning to be at some of the calendar brevets this season.  How far he takes it will be up to him.  It would not surprise me to see him undertake a 300k or longer before the season wraps up. 

My focus is now on completing a Super Randonneur Series and a 1000 kilometer.  I'm hoping to do so on an upright bike.

Stay tuned!

February R-12 - NJ Transit 200k - Revised Route

Photos:  Top - Jon trying to stay warm waiting to depart Budd Lake.  

Bottom - Al with a grim look of determination preparing for the next leg.

I'm starting to get the hang of this R-12 deal. I watched calmly as two major snow falls came through the area leaving over two feet of heavy snow on the ground. Fortunately, the January R12 ride was in the books before storm number one showed up at the end of the month. Storm number two was very early in February, leaving me optimistic about my chances of getting a break later in the month. None the less, I spent some time on the RUSA web-site researching permanents in the warmer climates. A permanent in South Carolina looked particularly inviting. I admit to being seriously tempted. However, before making travel plans I had a bit of an epiphany. I reasoned that earning an R12 might be a sweeter accomplishment if done in one's own back yard, dealing with whatever nature dishes out. Perhaps the real challenge is picking the right opportunity, the right route on the right day. I've become quite proficient at analyzing the weather with quick links to weather.com and NOAA on my laptop. I've kept any non-work related commitments to a bare minimum keeping myself free and ready to go when opportunity comes knocking. Having gotten this far into it I've decided to make it or break it at home.

While waiting for the road conditions to return to some semblance of normal. I did three things. Shoveled snow, rode my indoor trainer, and worked on changes to my permanent route. The proposed new route would start/finish in my hometown, instead of Raritan. Also, proposed were some significant changes to three of the segments. I submitted the changes to RUSA for approval. The approval was granted and coincided with a reasonable weather outlook for Sunday 2/21. Given that the route would need an initial test ride it seemed prudent to ride the February R-12 on the revised course. My friend Al agreed to ride it with me despite an epic battle with the old route still fresh in his mind from the prior month. In addition, my buddy from the Bronx, Jon, would join us. Jon would be working on an R-13, or a second R-12.

Sunday morning at 6:30am I departed home on the Salsa Caserole for the less than three mile ride to the new start at Mountain View Plaza. It was the first time I ever rode to the start of a brevet from home. The temperature was in the upper twenties with a light wind from the west. My legs were a little stiff from the commute the day before. I'd only logged 75 miles the prior week and no road miles the week before. I was feeling a little under prepared for a hilly 200k. None the less I was mentally determined to get around it somehow. I arrive at the plaza and immediately spot Al behind his SUV preparing for the ride. Jon arrives moments later. We stop at the convenience market at the corner to document the starting time of our ride. We get underway about 10 minutes passed the 7:00am starting time, which seems to S.O.P. for Permanents. I've not done one yet where we departed on time.

Hillsborough to Summit - 28 Miles
This first section features significant changes. The route now starts about eight miles further to the south. We use a north east approach to the Watchung Mountain Ridge and join the original route quite a bit further to the east than before. The initial 11 miles features mild terrain as we ride next to the canal on Weston Canal Road to South Bound Brook. We then cross the Canal and the Raritan River into the town of Bound Brook. We cross US hwy 22 which brings us to the first significant climb of the day, Morning Glory Road. With fresh legs the climb presents no problem and serves to warm us up. Once at the top we join the old route which follows the lower part of the ridge through Warren and Watchung to deliver us to our second major climb of the day, Sky Top Drive. Again, we have no problem negotiating the three mile ascent to the top of the ridge. Once to the top we quickly reach the town of Summit and the first control at the East Side Deli. The deli is a waiting place for landscape crew workers. The food there is Spanish/Mexican. Jon enjoys a piping hot tamale. I would have tried one but it was not the vegetarian variety. I settle for half a PBJ and a Gatorade. Al, also passes on the cuisine eating a Cliff Bar. Soon we are back underway,

Summit to Budd Lake 33 Miles
This section is unchanged, which some will consider unfortunate given as it is arguably the toughest leg of the route. A relentless succession of sizable rollers serves to take a severe toll on the riders energy level. There is no let up until the control at Budd Lake is finally reached. Additionally, there is generally a head wind. True to form the wind is present today. I notice it most just as I crest the top of a hill. It feels like my brakes are rubbing holding me back. The miles are ticking off quite slowly. About half way to the control Al says that he is considering abandoning the ride at the Budd Lake control. It's kind of a deja vu moment as he made a similar statement on this section last month. I tell him that he doesn't have to decide now, he can wait until we get there. He says he would like to call for a ride in advance so he doesn't have to wait too long to be picked up. Jon encourages him to give it a few more miles before making the call. He agrees with this plan. The topic never comes up again. As we near the control Jon amps up the watts dropping me on one of the bigger hills. I'm feeling beat up and do not even give a thought to chasing him. Al has fallen back a bit so I wait up for him at the next turn which is about a mile from the control. We roll in together both of us happy to be at the Dunkin Donuts for a much needed rest. Jon is waiting for us at a table inside. After a coffee and bagel I, for one, am feeling much better. Al seems to have recovered as well and prepares to continue. I take a photo of Jon and Al outside the store as we prepare to leave. The wind chill is making us feel quite cold.  As the photos show no one has a happy face at this moment.

Budd Lake to Hampton 25 miles
This leg of the route is unchanged to the point the information control is reached at Changewater. With rested legs we undertake the few remaining hills which come about right away, then the terrain eases for awhile. It is a short 17 miles to the info control. We make pretty good time having no knee breaking climbs to contend with. We find ourselves in front of the church at Changewater. We provide the required information on the brevet card and prepare to follow the new eight mile section of the course to Hampton. I had fully intended to come out and ride this new stretch while waiting for RUSA to approve the revisions. Unfortunately, with the distance from home, and the relentless bad weather, I wasn't able to get it done. So, the three of us would be test pilots venturing into the unknown. I'm hoping the roads I selected using Google maps are at least paved. Jon decided at this point that he would pick up the pace to the finish as he needed to be done at a specific time. Knowing we would not keep up we say goodby. I was glad that he could ride with us for as long as he did. Getting back to NYC on a Sunday night is no easy deal. Immediately after leaving the church we hit Forge Hill Road which is quite a climb. I would estimate at least a 15% grade. Fortunately it is not terribly long and it is nicely paved. As an added bonus it has some scenic value. It's a keeper. We watch as Jon motors up ahead. I marvel at his climbing ability and energy level. The rest of the route to the Hampton control is mostly flat, or downhill, and features nicely maintained roads. Jon is still at the Tiger Mart/Dunkin Donuts when we pull in. He is just preparing to leave so we say goodbye once again not expecting to catch back up to him on the next section. Al and I spend a leisurly half-hour refueling and resting at this control. There are still some big climbs in front of us and I admit to feeling sub-par at this point. None the less we end the break and depart headed for the town of High Bridge.

Hampton to Bedminster 24 Miles
This section of the course is unchanged. It features some flat terrain passing by the Spruce Run Resevoir then gets pretty gnarly for about seven miles after that. I'm not feeling tip-top on the first few miles and am worried about the big climbs. I've had some leg twinges, which for me is genrerally a warning that leg cramps are not far off. We turn onto Route 31 for a few hundred feet before turning off on Creegar Road, which is a short steep kicker. We then descend into the small town of High Bridge. We pass through the downtown area and head for the biggest climb of the day, which is Wilson Ave. I'm nervous about getting up this hill. If I'm going to cramp this will be where it will happen. As I make the turn and see the steep pitch to the roadway I drop into my lowest gear. My intention is to climb very conservatively. Al gets ahead of me and is climbing at a faster pace. I block out the impulse to try and stay with him. I have to let him go and concentrate on keeping myself together. I make it up about halfway when my left inner thigh cramps up. I manage a quick dismount and immediately begin walking. The muscle continues to cramp while I'm walking up the hill. I see Al make it over the top of the hill as I continue my painful trek up. Once I am almost to the top I remount and begin spinning in my easiest gear, the muscle finally relaxes. I start down the descent knowing full well that the road pitches up once again shortly. Herman Thou Road is the second phase of this climb. Same road, different name, similar elevation profile as the first. I have the same trouble with cramping only this time it's less painful when I walk up the last section of the hill. I take that as a good sign. After another descent I meet up with Al. He's been waiting at the next turn. There are still two more climbs ahead of us. Neither as severe as the twin hills of Wilson and Herman Thou, but substantial enough, especially given my situation. We quickly make the turn onto Haytown Road, the first of the two remaining hills. As soon as I hit the upgrade I gear way down spinning up the hill as gently as I can. I make it to the top without cramping. Next up Cokesburry Road, the final climb of the day. I use the same technique and have a similar cramp free experience. I now know there is nothing else ahead that can hurt me. With plenty of time still in hand I'm feeling confident of a finish. The remaining few flat miles to the control pass by quickly. We pull into the Burger King just as daylight is leaving us. A short break for coffee and apple pie and we are back on the road for the final leg.

Bedminster to Hillsborough 16 Miles
The roads on this final stretch are unchanged to the town of Raritan. From the Burger King control we head south on Country Club Road for seven miles into the small train station town of Raritan. We pass by the Quick Check Market, which was the former start/finish control.  The revised route then continues south along the river into Hillsborough Township.  With the exception of a couple of small hillocks the terrain is mostly flat to the end.  I'm feeling fully recovered and am pulling us along at a nice pace. It is fully dark and there is little traffic.  The temperature is falling, but I'm still feeling comfortable. There are only a few turns and a few miles left to the finish.  I check the time noticing we have a chance to finish in under 13 hrs.  I tell Al I would like to pick it up a bit for these last few miles.  He admits to feeling pretty beat up but agrees to give it a try.  I take the front and notch it up maintaining between 19-22mph.  I'm surprised at how good I'm feeling despite working hard I'm in no distress.  Al hangs in on my rear wheel right to the finish where we pull up in front of the Pizza Shop.  Our finish time is 12hr 58min which is more than a half hour faster than our time last month using the old course.  Inside Joe's Pizza we collect Jon's brevet card which he left in the care of the counter guy and order a couple of slices.  Jon finished in 12hrs picking up almost an hour on us in the last 40 miles.  I send a text message to my wife letting her know we finished and I'll be home soon arriving the same way I left.......on my bike.

Epilouge

Overall I was pleased with the newly revised NJ Transit route.  I think the spacing of the big hills was better and the removal of the ridiculously difficult Ludlow Station climb was a plus.  Although I wasn't able to make all the hills today without walking I will on a good day.  The cramping was disturbing but I'm prone to it when I haven't trained enough.  It might have helped if I kept up with the Endurolyte tablets that I normally take at each control.  I took two at the first control at Summit and accidentally dropped the container spilling all the pills on the ground.  None the less, I will make an effort to ramp up the training and get back to consistent commuting.  Hopefully, there won't be too many more winter storms to contend with.

Eleven down - one to go.  Stay tuned!