September 28, 2013

Yep, September 28, 2013, a day that will live in central Ohio cycling infamy.  OK, way too dramatic but it has been interesting to watch as events have unfolded leading up to the weekend that once was the exclusive domain of COP's Columbus Fall Challenge but is now a crowded space of CFC, Ohio-Bike's OFC, the KFC and The Frankie...all shoving off on the morning of Saturday, the 28th.

CFC will depart from Lancaster, going to Athens.  As the crow flies, that's only 43 miles so if it's the same Lancaster-Athens route from a few years ago, count on it being a zig-zag route crossing #33 numerous times.  Or, since a link to the route has not yet been released, probably COP is developing a new route, which is a good thing for those of us with short cutting tendencies. Some people have had trouble finding a room in Athens because of an alumni association gathering but COP claims rooms are available. 

OFC will depart from Sugar Grove, going to Marietta using the traditional CFC route from the past couple of years. Hotel rooms in Marietta are available. As an aside, Rick Miller is offering to meet you at the Kroger's parking lot on New Albany road in NA, drive you and your bike to Sugar Grove, provide personalized SAG service on the way to Marietta so you can shed/add clothing as needed and return you to New Albany on Saturday night.  The cost of $120 includes OFC ride fee and all transportation to/from New Albany.  You can email Rick at rick@ricksbicycleservice.com.

The KFC is a 2-day route to/from Galipolis, being organized by none other then the Polish Pony, aka Pepe LaPew, aka Kevin Hollingshead.  It too will have SAG service.  This is an under the radar effort that will likely have 10-15 participants.  If you know Kevin, you can contact him for additional details.

The Frankie is a group of cyclists who will ride the notorious "The Frank" route, starting out of Malabar Farms Park as a one day effort. 

Lots of people have been asking, "What have you heard about where people are riding" for the 28th.  There are still a lot of fence sitters out there  I get the sense the OFC is where people are trending as it appears to be the more organized event.  More than that I do not know but if anyone wants to jump in with information, that is always welcome.