If the weather forecast holds, the 33rd Ride Around Clark County could be the largest.
As many as 1,400 cyclists — from beginners riding 18 miles to the hard-core group pedaling 100 miles — are expected to hit the roads around the county on Saturday for the largest organized cycling event in the region.
“We’re stocking up on water and extra food,” ride organizer Mary McLaren said. “People tend to linger at the rest stops when it’s good weather.”
The most significant change this year is to the RACC’s 18-mile route. This year the shortest option will be a mostly flat out-and-back to Frenchman’s Bar Park. Also new, the shortest route will include a full rest stop for riders between 8:30 a.m. and noon.
Race organizer Mary McLaren said that change was made to make the 18-miler more attractive to beginning cyclists. In another shift to increase participation, entry fees were dropped this year.
Another tweak this year is the addition of another mile at the north end of the 100-mile loop, extending that circuit officially to 99.8 miles.
The other routes are 34 and 66 miles. As an option, cyclists can combine the 34-mile and 18-mile routes (riding the 34-miler first) for a 52-mile ride. Color-coded markings on the roads direct cyclists along each route.
McLaren said the RACC is the largest and least expensive supported ride in the region. The RACC has averaged 1,000 riders in recent years, with good weather bumping numbers up. She said 500 people are expected to register on race day, a typical number because many wait to see what the weather is like before deciding to ride.
For those who ride, five full rest stops and one mini stop will supply food, beverages and technical support. For safety, cyclists are required to wear helmets and cannot use headphones while they ride.
The Ride Around Clark County is the marquee event for the Vancouver Bicycle Club. The VBC stages group rides on most days and promotes bicycle safety. The club donated about $13,000 to local non-profits after last year’s RACC. Money from RACC entry fees will be donated to the American Diabetes Association, the American Lung Association, Bike Clark County, the League of American Bicyclists, Open House Ministries, Washington Bikes and the Waste Connections Christmas Bicycle Promise.
If you ride
What: Vancouver Bicycle Club’s 33rd Ride Around Clark County.
When: Saturday. Riders must start between 6:30 and 9 a.m. (Riders doing the 18- or 34-mile routes can start as late as 10 a.m.) All routes close at 5 p.m.
Where: All routes begin and end at Clark College’s Hanna Hall, 1820 Fort Vancouver Way.
Cost: Adults $35, $30 for the 18 miler; Ages 13-17 $25; Ages 12 and younger free (must be accompanied by a paid adult). Online registration is closed, but riders can register at Clark College Saturday morning.
Website: www.vbc-usa.com
