The Middletown 300K

Additional Report by Maile Neel, Ph.D.

The DC Randonneur web site makes it quite clear: "This hilly and gorgeous brevet starts south from Middletown, Va working its way to the rollers and scenic views of Back Rd. the riders then climb over Wolf Gap into WV, with a nice streamside descent and then a second climb through the GW National Forest. A second fast descent brings the riders to the first control in Lost River. The course then proceeds north and west as it follows the streams through many small valleys on its way to Romney. There is an extended climb heading east on US 50 followed by several miles of riding the ridge to Points. Here the route turns southeast and climbs several ridges on the way to the control in Slanesville. More ridges follow on the way to the beautiful Cacapon River with its welcome flat stretch. The ride continues south on WVA 259 to Wardenville. Many riders will refuel here before beginning the long, gradual ascent to Wolf Gap, followed by the downhill run to the Control at Columbia Furnace. The brevet then returns along scenic Back Rd to the finish in Middletown".

Matt giving last instructions before the pre-dawn start
My friend Maile

In anticipation of a hilly ride I wore my polka-dotted jersey