Here's the scoop about this Sunday's event.
I-75 exit 193 Jacaranda Blvd., go North (away from gas stations) and right on Border Road. Go to the end take a left into T. Mabry Carlton Memorial Reserve at 1800 Mabry Carlton Pkwy, Venice 34292.
Parking open's up at 6:00 am, everybody has to park in the assigned parking area. Restrooms and start area are 0.7 miles from parking.
Saturday, we have a packet pickup from 5:00-8:00 pm at Off The Wagon Brewery and Kitchen at 2107 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice 34293. Great place for a bite and a pint. Sunday morning, we will have coffee and muffins at the start.
The first group to start are the 60's at 7:45 sharp. I will lead them from the pavilion to the start line .5 miles away. The 40's will leave as soon as I get back probably around 8:30. The 20's will probably leave 45 minutes after that. The 10 mile fun ride will leave around the same time. The SAG stop, also known as "Tom's Oasis", will have a live band this year, snacks and plenty of beer and fireball. Make sure to stop but don't stay too long.
THE 80/20 RULE: 80% of the ride is going to be uneventful with great trails and plenty of fast areas.You won't remember any of it. 20% is going to be memorable with water crossings, muddy sections & soft grass. You'll remember them and they will become part of you story. None of these areas are extensive just short sections. Go out there and make some memories but don't wear white socks.
The finish area will feature free beer samples from 3 Bridges Brewing. You better be thirsty we have a lot of it. Homemade Bratwurst, Chicken, bean salad, tabbouleh and pasta salad awaits your arrival.
I have not made new route files this year, the actual routes are still being decided. Everything will be very well marked just follow the signs and don't overthink it.
Remember to be self-reliant, be prepared for mechanical breakdowns, stay fed and hydrated.
You will be in very remote areas with little access and spotty cell service. Your on your own. This needs repeating, your on your own. Help your fellow rider, be smart, have fun experiencing the real Florida, respect the wildlife and don't touch the pig traps.
Approximate SAG stops (TBD):
20 miles around mile 13?
40 miles around mile 12? Water only around mile 30
60 miles around mile 16, water at 30 Sag at 35 (off course .4 miles) or finish area at 40
60 miler is a 40 mile loop taking you back to the start then a 20 mile loop with a cut off at 1:00 pm .
The second loop has a rough 2 miles.
My cell is 941-468-. Put my cell in your phones now while you are thinking about it. See you Sunday morning!
Eric
PS: Here are the links to last years courses they are about 80% accurate, you'll be off course often but they will get you around just follow the arrows/signs instead of the GPS.
40 miles 2018 or https://ridewithgps.com/routes/26646437
20 mile 2018 or https://ridewithgps.com/routes/26655155
sixty part 1 2018 or https://ridewithgps.com/routes/26658302
sixty part 2 2018 or https://ridewithgps.com/routes/26673297
