Hot – that’s what it was! The 2022 Richard’s Ride Powered by VBT coincided with an early season heat wave with temperatures approaching the 90s. Pre-ride waffles sopping with maple syrup were served up by the Little Bellas team while riders checked in for their selected route. Richard’s Ride offers something for all ages and abilities and all ride categories had excellent representation with the exception of the Mountain Bike category which is a tough nut to crack, given that Cochran’s offers free access to their trails every day. All other categories had 20 – 40 riders for each of the designated routes. Overall registrations topped all previous years. Thank you to all riders and let’s shoot for 300 riders for 2023!
At 8:30 riders lined up for the challenging 70-mile route. Following a nod to Richard (present in spirit) and warnings about rough pavement (Buck Hollow Road), the 70-milers were off. The next ride, in order of timing, was the 40/50 gravel ride. The announcer donned the “carrot suit” for the sendoff. Hilarious laughter ensued! The heat inside the suit was unbearable such that the disguise was short-lived. All gravel riders, save one, opted for the 40-mile route due to the high ambient heat. That one, Rick Blount, believing there was a group of riders ahead of him completing the 50-mile option cycled on past the 40-mile finish (at Cochran’s) hoping to catch a phantom group ahead. Well, when Rick finally caught up with them, it was back at Cochran’s where all other gravel riders were already busily happily chatting and chowing down on our excellent lunch accompanied by frosty beers. I think Rick felt a mix of pride (for being the only one to complete the 50) and shame (for believing there was a group ahead that he could reel in). I say: Kudos to Rick!
Richards’ 30-mile, 15-mile, and 5-mile rides went off without a hitch with medals awarded to those young of age (or heart). Face painting for children and a great meal (Sugarsnap, Dakin Farm, Stone Corral) was topped off with Sisters of Anarchy ice cream.
Richard’s Ride would not be possible without the support of our many sponsors, most all are local businesses which we support year-round. Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Vermont Bicycle Tours for their continued support over the years. And importantly, as for all bicycle events, Richard’s Ride would not be possible without the many volunteers who provide help throughout the day with registrations, parking, food stops, route marking, sag vehicles, photography, and more. Thank you everyone!