Split Rock Tour was a success!

The final numbers are not in yet, but a large group of riders enjoyed the 2009 edition of the Split Rock Tour. Now in it's 33rd year. This year we had comfortable temps in the mid-60's, overcast skies with some heavy mist in the morning hours, and light winds. Comments on the ride have all been positive. People seemed to agree the ride is well organized, the route is one of the most scenic in the Midwest, and the rest stops are fantastic. People checking in during the pre-ride registration and picking up their socks. A comment from one of last year's participants suggested we offer socks, instead of the usual ride t-shirt. We tried it. It was a popular decision.

Starbucks donated all the coffee for those that need a cup to get them going in the morning.

Congressman Oberstar is a longtime participant of our ride. He always tries to take in the ride, schedule permitting. Here he is with some of the rides comittee members, from L-R: Doug, Susan, The Congressman, Ed, and Bob. The Congressman is seen here wearing his Velo Duluth club Jersey, just like the one Ed is wearing.

Velo Duluth member, Ed Martin and the Congressman heading out onto the route.

Along the shores of Gitche Gumee, better known as Lake Superior.

The Brighton Beach rest stop was staffed by long time volunteers that have claimed this rest stop as there own for 15 or more years. Offered at this stop was sandwiches, fruit, Great Harvest Race Rolls (generously donated by Great Harvest), cookies and water and powerade.

Thanks to all that volunteered their time and to the participants that joined us for another excellent ride along the shores of Lake Superior.

Velo Duluth
Bicycle Club
33rd Annual

Split Rock Tour

Saturday, July 18, 2009

15, 40, 60, or 100 miles

Register Now!

vent Software by Active Network

Come join us Saturday, July 18, 2009, for one of the most scenic bicycle rides in the Midwest. This bike tour will take you along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. You will experience spectacular lake views and gentle rolling terrain. This ride will be enjoyable for all levels of riders.

Start Location
The ride will start and end at the Ordean Building at 424 West Superior Street in Duluth, Minnesota. We will use the Ordean Building's lower entrance on Michigan Street. After check-in, riders may choose an alternate starting location to avoid city traffic.

Traveling northbound on I-35 take the 5th Avenue West/Lake Avenue exit, turn left at 5th Avenue West, turn right on Michigan Street. The Ordean Building is on the corner of Michigan Street and 5th Ave West. Free Parking is available in the parking ramp across the street.

Check-in and registration will be at the Ordean Building. Bike socks will be given to all registered participants at check-in.

Check-in/Registration (All Riders Must Check In)

Registration/check-in will open at 6:30 am, with the ride beginning between 7:00 and 9:00 am. If you plan to ride the 100 mile tour, you will need to start by 8:00 am. The start/finish rest stop will be staffed until 4:00 pm. Route maps will be included in the registration materials.

Services
Mechanical support will be traveling the route to provide assistance as needed. Bring a well maintained bike. Carry a flat tire repair kit and spare tube. No SAG wagon support.

Advanced Registration
There are two ways to register in advance:

Online Registration---click on "Register Now" above

or

Request a ride brochure by email (splitrocktour@yahoo.com) and mail in an entry form.

Registration Fees
Postmarked on or before July 10th:
Individual Registration: $25
Family Registration: $35 (2 adults and 2 children under the age of 18)
After July 10th:
Individual: $30
Family: $40
Entry Fees are non-refundable

For Hotel Options
Go to VisitDuluth.com

Have more questions? Contact us at splitrocktour@yahoo.com

The Split Rock Tour FAQ

1) What distances are offered for this ride?

The distances are 15, 40, 60, and 100 miles. All routes are out-and-back along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. The distances correspond to the Rest Stops provided at Brighton Beach (15), Knife River (40), and Two Harbors (60). One more additional Rest Stop will be located at Gooseberry State Park prior to the turn around at Split Rock State for those riding the 100 mile ride.

2) Where do I register/check-in the day of the ride?

Registration will be at the Ordean Building at 424 West Superior Street in downtown Duluth. See the brochure for directions. We will be using the lower lobby of the building located on Michigan Street. Parking ramp directly across the street, on Michigan Street, will have free parking. Note: If you are using a car top bike carrier, there is not clearance for bikes in the ramp. You will have to take the bikes off before entering the ramp or park across the highway in Playfront Park.

3) Where will the proceeds from the ride go?

Proceeds from this year's tour will benefit Courage Center Duluth's adapted recreation program for people of all ages and abilities who have physical disabilities or vision loss and Union Gospel Mission, a Christian community organization that provides food, shelter, and hope to the needy.

4) Is there a family friendly route?

Participants have the option to check-in and then drive up to the edge of town and start their ride at Brighton Beach. This is about a 7 mile drive. This way the ride through town is avoided. From Brighton Beach, riders follow the Old Scenic Highway 61. This is a two lane road with very wide shoulders that follows the shoreline of Lake Superior. This is the same route that the popular Grandma's Marathon follows every June. It is relatively flat between Brighton Beach and Knife River, a 25 mile round trip.

5) Are there any challenges to this ride?

This route is mostly flat with some rolling hills. Weather can create some bigger challenges. Wind can be a factor along Lake Superior. Keep in mind that if you have a tailwind on the way out, you will have a headwind coming back. Be prepared for varied weather conditions. Sudden weather changes can occur along the big lake with afternoon storms that can bring winds, rain, and 10-20 degree drops in temperature over a very short period of time. Temperatures can be 5-10 degrees cooler along the shoreline than away from it. Check a weather report the morning of the event and dress appropriately.