Seagull Century: Lunatics vs Trop. Storm Pam

Mister C

Fellow Lunatics,

I did not realize how many crazy cyclists there are until I went to the 2005 Seagull Century this past weekend. Even though the weather report warned constant rain and winds all day (remnants of tropical storm Pam), about 3000 cyclists joined me for 100 mile ride.

I was impressed by the turnout. Yes, indeed thousands were willing to do this ride, unload their bikes in the pouring rain and set off with little hope of respite. This must be how lemmings feel. And indeed it did rain the entire ride with a fierce wind driving the water nearly horizontal at times. I suppose only fellow cyclists would understand.

This was my first century but it won't be my last.

The ride was very well supported by another set of crazy people dishing up food and gatorade in the pouring rain all day. Thank you to all the volunteers that supported us during the ride. You really made it possible.

Lastly, here is to all that finished the ride!

meb

Glad you enjoyed it.

The weather forecast was the last straw for me.
2004 they had onsite registration (contrary to their website).

Did they have onsite registration for 2005?

Hope to do see there in '06.

Mister C

Many peopled bailed. I can't say I blamed them for doing so.

I am not sure if they had onsite registration or not. I preregistered about 2 weeks before the ride.

I will definitely be there for '06.

larryb

hey ther Mr C,

i live one block off the Seagull Century ride near mile 96.

Two crazy folks, a guy and a gal, from the DC area came down and rode the Seagull with me. you are right. it was wet and the wind did blow. ... but everyone seemed to have a great time... although there seemed to be lots of flat tires.

i'm under the impression that there was no same day registration. .... but then, how would a bandit like me know?

that was my first century since treatment for cancer 4 years ago. it's been a long road back, but rain and wind don't stop me now.

maybe i'll see you on the ride next year,
i'll be wearing a CCC yellow and red shirt.
cyclists combating cancer.

cu,
larryb

Mister C

Hey larryb,

After what you have been through, what is a little rain and wind? Great for you!

I agree that the ride had more than its share of flats. Some poor soul I saw at mile 98 had a flat. So close to the end...how frustrating can that be?

Visibility was very low so I imagine many people just could not see the road hazards.

Since installing Spin Skin kevlar tire liners I have been flat free. They were too expensive for my liking but they have since paid for themselves in spades.

Hope to see you next year. I will be the guy on the bike wearing a helmet.

Later,

Mister C