Civil War Century Frequently Asked Questions

Closing Time Question -- I'm a fairly slow rider and have done many centuries but never such a hilly one. Is there an evening closing time at which you shut down the finish area?

Closing Time Answer -- Last year we began closing down in Thurmont at about 5:00 PM, but were still available for the last rider who came in about 6:00 PM.  We will offer sag to late finishers, as well as letting riders choose to complete the course without a guarantee that they will be there when you finish.  The SAG and rest stop volunteers will be your best source for information.  There is a bailout on the Century route that returns to Thurmont also.  We will offer advice to riders late in the day if we think that shortening the route is advisable.

 

Passing Slower Riders Question -- The "Annotated Code of Maryland - Bicycle Related Definitions and Laws" states that "Each person operating a bicycle on a roadway may ride two abreast only if the flow of traffic is unimpeded." My question is: As a "fast" rider how should I handle "slow" riders.

Passing Slower Riders Answer -- First, keep in mind that any Bicycle Event of this size will result in stressing Automobile traffic. As you approach a slower rider make sure there are no automobiles coming from behind and the road is clear in front of the "slower" rider. As you pass the "slower" rider shout "On Your Left" and pass by quickly, then move back to the right side of the road. When you ride up on to two "slower" riders and shout "On your left" they should move into single file to let you pass. When they do, you can pass safely if Automoblie traffic is not approching in either direction. One more point, proper procedure when riding two abreast and a rider calls, "Car Back" or another rider is passing, requires that the "slower" rider on the outside should speed up and move to the right while the inside rider allows the outside rider to move in. This is common rider courtesy.

 

Pre-Registration Question -- I'm planning on coming in for the Civil War Century from out of state.  Do I need to pre-register or can I register the day of the event?

Pre-Registration Answer -- For 2008 you MUST pre-register.  Last year was so successful we had just too many riders on the road.  So, for this year we have decided to limit the number of riders to 1600.  As a result, we expect to sell out.  In any case, please come, but register early to get a spot.  Mail and on line registration closes August 31, 2008 or earlier once the event is full.
Also, if you are in the Thurmont area on Friday evening (9/5/2008), we are having early check-in and/or dinner at The Cozy Country Inn.  The buffet and happy hour are "pay as you go" starting at 7:00 PM.
Hope to see you there!

 

SAG Support Question -- Will the SAG carry any items for minor repairs (ie. tubes and pumps for flats, chains etc.)?

SAG Support Answer -- We will have SAG and bike mechanics available at the rest stops.  They will have tubes and pumps.  However, the total course covers over 150 miles and there is no guarantee that a SAG vehicle will be available like a taxi to arrive within 15 minutes of a breakdown.  It happens, but I wouldn't plan on it.  We expect you to prepare for mechanical issues as you would for any extended ride.   The purpose of SAG is for the major breakdowns, mechanical or physical, that occur when 1600 riders gather in the same place.  While the SAG support might not reduce what you carry, the well-stocked rest stops should help reduce the stuff you pack for a long ride.