The lack of updates here is because I'm deep in bicycle advocacy at the moment. We are pushing forward with phase II of our Catoctin trail project we started last year. There is bigger and has more pieces to it than last year's project which means more moving parts and more work, especially the upfront start up. This past Sunday we did some work on one of the trails on what we are tentatively calling the Frederick Epic. Locals know the trail as Super Sweet and it is one of my personal favorites. The record snow we got this winter was followed up by a big melt off in the form of many, many inches of rain and it caused some erosion on many trails, Super Sweet included. So, even though we did not have approval yet to start cutting new phase II trail, that was alright because we had other work to do.
Anyone who does the annual Greenbrier Challenge race in Boonsboro, MD should be in for a nice surprise this year. Two weeks ago we had a big trail build day and completed a cool new section that will bypass the shoreline trail so you won't need to dodge fisherman and their poles. There's still one more trail work day before the race (Sunday, April 11th) and if you go put in your time you can earn a free race entry. Check the MORE website for details.
In other news, several of us having been laying the groundwork for a new organization focused on local bike issues. We've filed our non-profit paperwork and are now known as the Frederick Bicycle Coaltion. We'll be focusing on bicycle advocacy in Frederick County and of course promoting all of the great mountain biking and road riding we have out here. If you live or ride in Frederick, MD consider joining and supporting the cause. We have the best biking in Maryland and we are going to work to make it better.
With all of this advocacy work it was time for a little R&R. Spring has hit early this year and the riding weather has been great. I got out for some great MTB rides Wednesdy and Friday, then packed the fixed Crosscheck and rode out of town with my wife for an overnight camping trip to Harpers Ferry, WV. We met some RideLugged.com kids midway, then proceeded down the C&O Canal towards our destination. There was a bit of drama at the campsite as some rangers knabbed another cycle tourist for having a bag of cheeba. Luckily a hefty ticket was the only penalty issued and he was able to complete his tour. Some grub and beer in town, then we roasted Peeps on the fire to honor the Easter Bunny before turning in. Departed fairly early and stopped mid-ride for a feast of MD fried chicken before finishing the trip back to town.
And before I forget, Loudon County, VA riders who want more trail opportunites should attend this meeting on April 13th.
