Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb
Introduction
Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is a cycling event that takes place annually in New Hampshire. It is a unique and challenging event that attracts cyclists from all over the world. The event is held on the Mount Washington Auto Road, which is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, and has an elevation gain of over 4,600 feet.
The History of the Event
The first Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb was held in 1973, and it has been held annually ever since. The event was started by John Stifler, who was a local cyclist and wanted to create a challenging and unique cycling event. The event has grown in popularity over the years, and now attracts over 600 cyclists from all over the world.
The Route
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb starts at the base of the Mount Washington Auto Road and finishes at the summit. The route is 7.6 miles long, and has an average gradient of 12%. The road is narrow and winding, with steep drops on either side, making it a challenging ride for even the most experienced cyclist.
The Race
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is a timed event, and the cyclists start in waves, with the fastest cyclists starting first. The cyclists are timed from the start to the finish, with the fastest time being the winner. The event has various categories, including men's and women's overall, age group, and tandem.
The Challenges
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is one of the most challenging cycling events in the world. The steep gradients and narrow road make it a difficult ride, but the weather conditions can also be a challenge. The summit of Mount Washington is known for its harsh weather, with high winds, low temperatures, and heavy fog. Cyclists must be prepared for any weather conditions, and must have the appropriate clothing and equipment.
The Winners
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb has had many winners over the years, including some of the best cyclists in the world. The current men's record is held by Tom Danielson, who completed the ride in 49 minutes and 24 seconds, while the women's record is held by Marti Shea, who completed the ride in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 14 seconds.
The Experience
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is not just a challenging ride, it is also a unique experience. The stunning scenery and the sense of achievement at the summit make it a memorable event for all who participate. Many cyclists return year after year to take on the challenge again.
Conclusion
The Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is a unique and challenging cycling event that attracts cyclists from all over the world. The steep gradients, narrow road, and harsh weather conditions make it a difficult ride, but the stunning scenery and sense of achievement at the summit make it a memorable experience. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is an event that should be on your bucket list.