Last Call For This Weekend’s Hoosic River Ride

With a promising weather report and a little less dust in the air thanks to the recent rains, the stage is set for the 6th annual Hoosic River Ride this Saturday, August 21, at Southern Vermont College in Bennington. Roads are being marked to direct cyclists along their selected routes, the burritos have been ordered, baked goods, salads and other treats are in the making for the post-ride picnic and aid stations and T-shirts with the ride’s signature heron are piling up. Tsubo therapists will even be offering post ride massages!
Have you registered? Riders of all ages are encouraged to register prior to Saturday at bikereg.com or active.com, although registration is available at Southern Vermont College the day of the ride (cash or check only for this option please). The ride is an annual benefit for the Hoosic River Watershed Association, with major support from area businesses including Heliocentrix, Donovan & O’Connor, LLP, Greylock Animal Hospital and Cobble Hill Farm.
Riders are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their ride start time, with the 75-mile, three state Watershed Challenge starting at 8:30, the Hoosic 50 starting at 9, the Two-State Tour at 9:30 and the Monument Tour (8 miles) starting at 10:30. While Peter Hall of Highlander Bicycles and Paul Rinehart of The Spoke will be on hand at the start and atop Petersburgh Pass (for those doing the 75 only), organizers ask that cyclists come ready with bikes tuned and an extra tube in case they need to change a flat along the way.
Motorists are encouraged to pay special attention on the region’s roads Saturday with increased activity expected along the ride routes between 8:30 am and noon, particularly on Monument, Fairview, Walloomsac, Vail and White Creek roads in Bennington and Rte 68 in Eagle Bridge and Johnson Hill Road and the intersection of Routes 22/67 in North Hoosick.