Asheville, North Carolina holds the distinction of being the only town in the world wherein I came across an elderly gentleman who asked me where the “shindig” was. The shindig, I came to learn, was in reference to an impromptu bluegrass festival the town was having, and a while later we came upon the same gentleman busy ripping it up on the spoons. A pity he was occupied as such, since judging by his appearance, he may well have witnessed the Civil War and I have some nagging questions on the subject I would have liked to ask him.
They say the South will Rise again, and it may well start with the Asheville, North Carolina Cogal. @Anjin-san is hosting an impromptu one since @gaswepass will be traveling to Asheville the later part of March and the two thought they’d link up for a ride. For any Velominati within travelling distance of the Southeast, I can vouch first-hand that this is some seriously beautiful country, perfect for riding – if you don’t believe me, ask whoever organized the routes for the Tour de Trump and Tour DuPont back in the 90’s. Not to mention the weather will be heating up, and the Blue Ridge Mountains will be showing signs of Spring.
99 km, 1033 m climbing
Date: March 30, 2012
Start: REI- Asheville at precisely V past 10
Categorization: Casually Deliberate, Rule VV
This ride is going to be hilly, but we are avoiding the big mountains in favor of rolling terrain that is more conducive to building camaraderie among our fellow Velominati. There are numerous bail out points on this route, but if you aren’t familiar with the area your chances of getting lost or finding yourself on a killer climb are high.
Route and location details on the Cogal Event Page.
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Asheville is fantastic. I can't make it, but this cogal is a great excuse to visit a wonderful town and see some of the best riding in the East. I suggest scouting Mt. Mitchell by car even if you don't have time to ride it. Leo
Hmm, I would like to make this but I have some b.s. pre-wedding party nonsense. How many parties can ya have before the actual wedding? (but then again, one should never complain when one throws you a party, unless it is a bachelor party. Thankfully, I think mine will fall after this ride, so I'll still be able to ride a bike.)
Never been to Asheville which is a severe shame, since I only live o'er yonder in central NC.
Glad someone asked about what sort of cassette to slap on. I've ridden Hanging Rock and Pilot Mtn. in the past and was able to get away with what I already ride on one of my road bikes.
@Ron
No better time than the present to introduce your fiance to Rule #11. She does, after all, really need to understand what she's getting herself into.
@actor1
@Red @actor1
Live in DC too - DC Cogal would be outstanding
@JCZ
I make it to DC quite often... be there March 21, 22, and 23rd if anyone wants to organize an impromptu ride...
Hoegaarden -- the original Belgian white beer ?? Do we need this March 30th ??
@UNPULL
That is a good choice... we'll do that and some local brews!
@Anjin-san
any guess on the number of riders from the area and elsewhere for March 30 ??
@Anjin-san
Aren't you coming up to New England this summer, too?
@Vin'cenza
Right now we are at 3 or 4. Are going to join? Should be a good time. I am going to invite the guys from my local club to join- there are a few that are good for a ride anytime so we should have at least 6 or 7 I would think.