Marshall-Chileno Hopper March 26 , 2011

Weather report: Scattered showers. I know this cuz it's what's happened each of my last four rides. Remember the Hoppers happen rain or shine. There's no bad weather, just bad clothing. If you need to update your Winter gear or buy one extra layer don't forget to stop by NorCal and check out their newly remodeled shop. This Hopper is 100% paved road.

The ride will begin at 10:00 in Occidental. You will need to sign a Grasshopper waiver AND a County of Sonoma Waiver. Cost: $20. This is new so please make sure you sign both. We will be staging at the Old Camp Meekers Rd.(just down Bohemian Hwy. past Graton Rd. ) in order to avoid blocking Bohemian Hwy. If the numbers are large we'll be starting in two waves: Pro 1,2,3 and then everyone else. Like last year we will head up Coleman Valley Rd. and will finish at the top of Joy Rd....:) Last year stats were about 80 miles and 8,000 ft of climbing so plan ahead.

There will be porto-poties at the Union Hotel Parking Lot and the Community Center so please use them. Also, don't forget to pick up a coffee and snack from the Union Bakery. If you haven't had one of their hot, fresh fruit turn overs with a Capucchino you're missing out!

Also, Fork Catering will be at the finish from 2-4 so don't forget to line up early for your tasty morsels.

NorCal will have a neutral feed and aid station at the halfway point atop Wilson Hill. If you want to leave food or water with Jim see him at the start. Please pick up your discarded items at the Occidental Community Center after the ride. I'll will bring the bottles that I have from previous rides. Gnarly ones have been recycled!

Remember these are training rides and not races. You must ride responsibly, never cross the center line and obey all rules of the road.

No sag or support. As always, you will be given a laminate with a map and course directions. You are presented with world class ride and awesome companionship on the road; as well as the start and finish, but there is no aid or emergency services on the route. Not a bad idea to bring a cell phone and some money for a coke and a snickers if you need help making it home!

Rubber side down and dress warm.

Mig