300k Brevet

[Wayne Young]

Hello,

First timer attempting a 300k brevet.  Any tips for the SCR HMB-Marina 300k Brevet in March?

Thanks

Wayne (15670)

[Arvi]

I haven't done this particular route, but general first 300k advice:

• have a fueling strategy and stick to it. I used to limp through the end of 200ks with an empty tank, but that won't work for longer distances
• make sure you have a viable lighting set up on your bike. dyno is great, but battery will be fine for 300k
• don't over pack
• don't use any piece of gear or clothing for the first time
• keep moving and have fun

Bonne route!

-Arvi, Oakland/SFR

[Ioannis]

Hi Wayne,

This brevet consists of two loops: one going north to Half Moon Bay and one south to Marina. Coming back from MHB, you will pass very close to the Safeway on Mission Street, which happens to be across the street from the Finish Control. Park there and bike to the Lighthouse start control (it's a <10mins ride).

You can leave extra items in your car: heavy duty night lights, extra warm clothes, food,etc. You can pick them up on your way back from HMB. It will save you time and extra weight. Just make sure they are not visible (It's generally safe, just basic precaution). 

Other than that, Arvi is right: keep moving and have fun. If you are new to the area, you will especially enjoy the HMB -> Santa Cruz part if the weather cooperates.

Let me know if you have any questions,

Ioannis Sarkas

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[Bill Bryant]

HI Wayne,

Yes, as Ioannis mentioned in his note, and as you can see on the RWGPS route link on the SCR homepage, the hardest climbing is in the first half of the ride, then passing through Santa Cruz, that is a good place to grab some a late lunch, and if you go to your car parked near the finish (close to the Safeway at Mission & Almar Streets), you can grab some extra warm clothes and fresh rations for the second half of the brevet. There are plenty of climbs in the second half but they tend to be short ones. Riding the 8 miles through Santa Cruz/Aptos isn’t anyone’s favorite, but there is a bike lane nearly the whole way, and I find it is a good time to cycle gently and digest an afternoon meal before tackling the second part of the ride. Overall, the route is mostly out-n-back, with small loops at the northern and southern ends of the course, and one around Castroville on the return.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38845484

Overall, the northern first half has good to excellent paving, while the second half, south of Aptos, has sections of pavement that can range from good to fair to poor. Having strong lights for night riding is always a good idea, but especially to spot some potholes too. 

There are plenty of towns and stores along the route, so no need to fret about hauling extra food and drink, but after sundown things can cool down quickly and carrying an extra long-sleeved jersey or jacket, long-fingered gloves, and warm cap for your head is advised. It can be quite cold by midnight. Otherwise, past riders have said they like the route.

Cheers,

Bill Bryant

Santa Cruz Randonneurs

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