Tough Ride to Benefit Mt. Mansfield Winter Academy Set for Sept. 1

Second Annual Darn Tough Ride To Benefit MMWA Set For September 1

Looking for a challenge this summer? If so, then sign up today to take part in the 2013 Darn Tough Ride, a scenic bicycle adventure through Vermont to benefit the Mt. Mansfield Winter Academy (MMWA) on Sunday, September 1.

This marks the second straight year that Northfield Vermont-based sock maker Darn Tough Vermont will sponsor the bike ride. After three years of running the successful Stowe Road Rally, organizers decided that a new route and new challenges were in order for the annual MMWA fundraising bike event in 2012 and wanted to design a bike ride that was as tough as the state it tours.

The Darn Tough Ride is a road cycling event featuring challenging ascents, exhilarating descents, and of course plenty of camaraderie. Last year was a huge success, as the event raised over $15,000 to support student-athletes scholarships at the Mt. Mansfield Winter Academy.

The full Darn Tough Ride is indeed Darn Tough! The complete route is a 100-mile loop from Stowe over to Jay Peak and back over Smugglers’ Notch. The total elevation is an impressive 8,000 feet, including two Category 2 climbs, one Category 4 climb, and six Category 5 climbs. Riders are expected to complete the ride in less than 6.5 hours.

To satisfy the competitive spirit of its participants, organizers have incorporated two timed hill climbs (Jay Peak and Smugglers’ Notch), where a king and a queen of the mountain will be named to stimulate a little friendly rivalry in the peloton.

Participants of all abilities can partake in the ride. Additional route options include distances of 65 miles, 45 miles, and a friendly 25-mile route along Randolph Road. The Darn Tough Ride is fully supported and will have rest and refueling stops all along the way. The ride concludes with a party at the MMWA with great food from Black Diamond Barbecue, live music, prizes and raffles.

Start recruiting your friends and working on your pedal power, as this will be a ride to remember! The ride will be limited to the first 300 entrants and online registration is now open.

For more information and updates on the Darn Tough Ride, you can become a fan on Facebook or visit: http://mmwa.org/darntoughride/