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Grasp Life by the Handlebars | Cashiers NC
Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: 2017/03 - March
It’s hard to believe that it has been a quarter of a century since Clark Moore gathered a few riders in front of the Cashiers Chamber of Commerce for that initial bicycle ride that has grown into the highly regarded annual Tour de Cashiers. Riders from throughout the Southeast eagerly look forward to this extraordinary cycling event, held this year on Saturday, April 29.
Beginning with the Century riders at 8:00 A.M., Jackson County law enforcement will lead cyclists from the Cashiers/Glenville Recreation Center down Frank Allen Road, north on NC Highway 107 under a dramatic 20 X 30 foot American Flag, and through the Crossroads. Metric Riders will follow at 8:30 P.M. and Quarter Century riders will begin at 9:00 A.M.
The Tour attracts approximately 300 cyclists ranging in age from 18 (the minimum age) to their 70s who dedicate the day to the challenge of one of three routes of up to 100 miles and 10,000 feet in elevation change.
There’s a route for most ability levels… the Quarter Century (25 miles), Metric (62 miles), or Century (100 miles). The longest route offers riders some opportunity for relief by foregoing 20 miles and one or two very tough climbs near the ride’s end. Regardless of which route they choose, participants enjoy stunning scenery, exhilarating ascents, and fast descents. Among the highlights is the “Donkey Field” intersection at Walnut Gap where resident four-legged spectators watch the passersby.
As in 2016, Pisgah Productions of Asheville will be lending operational support to the event by providing on-course surveillance, expanded rest stops, en route mechanical assistance, and expanded Support & Gear activities. Joining them will be community volunteers and regional fire departments, rescue squads, and local law enforcement agencies who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and comfort of the riders.
Local sponsors provide financial underwriting for the Tour and receive recognition in all event publicity. For more information on sponsorship or volunteering, contact the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce at (828) 743-5191 or [email protected]. Early rider registration at $60 is available at www.TourdeCashiers.com, linked to Active.com.
