I want to thank those people who responded to my request for
info about the Chattooga Century in Summerville Georgia. The ride was last weekend
and it was excellent. Options to do 30, 62, 100 or 128 miles. There were many
well stocked rest stops with port-a-potties. All sorts of food, drinks and even
ice packs for the overheated. People at registration and the rest stops were friendly;
route was scenic with almost no traffic. Routes were all separately color
coded and easily visible. Probably 350 riders participated.
The 128 mile ride had about 9,400 feet of climbing. None of
the climbs were as long as the climbs on 6 GAPS but there were several very steep
pitches. Only 6 climbs on 6 GAPS while there were probably 50 climbs on the
Chattooga Century. The long distance version of the Chattooga ride climbs Lookout Mountain and the descent was a
screamer. About 4 - 180 degree full switchbacks on the descent. There were
many signs alerting riders to the rest stops, descents, etc. If you want a
training ride next year for 6 GAPS I recommend this ride. Roads were good and
they even painted some of the spots where there were potholes
Lots of SAG wagons through out the day were visible. All the
Pizza you want after the ride.
If you do the ride stay in Rome, Georgia
where there are more lodging options. Rome
is about 20 miles south of Summerville.
Thanks again to those who recommended the ride.
Cliff
