Hillier Than Thou

Many of the best climbers in NJ and surrounding states traveled to scenic Warren & Hunterdon Counties for CJBC’s signature Fall event: Hillier Than Thou. With about 20 years of history behind one of the toughest century rides in the Northeast, this year's event was no exception. Based at Camp Bernie YMCA near Washington, N.J. the century route incorporated several hills rarely seen in organized events to total 12,000 feet of climbing. Six hour or better century times are frequently seen in flat centuries but 8 of this year’s entrants finished within a few minutes of this goal. Congratulations to all the riders who participated in our event.

We were forced to make a last minute postponement in event date due to family emergencies as well as road work and attendant course changes that just kept on coming. An example of this was the fresh gravel on a mile plus section of Rockaway Road near Mountainville that was discovered by Kyle on his final course check Friday night. The obliterated arrows would’ve resulted in lost riders but we rearrowed Saturday AM just in time. It seems as though the local road crews were rushing to complete work before Hurricane Isabel or just-in-case. This year’s road resurfacing (if that’s what it can be called) was more than the last 5 years combined... and courses were revised at least 8 separate times.

Thanks are due to our overworked volunteer crew, both veterans and those who joined us for the first time. This event could not go on each year without your help. Use of the club’s supplies & equipment also is appreciated and contributes to rider safety & support. Our LAB insurance contacts were invaluable in assisting us with providing the necessary documents even with the eleventh hour date change.

VOLUNTEERS:

• John Kurzel
• Jeff Politzer
• Pat Kurzel
• Marc Heck           
• Eileen Apruzzese
• Lorin Press
• Larry Evans
• Joe Abrahams    

Everyone helped with cleanup - Camp Bernie YMCA thanked us for our donation of excess supplies

 As in the past this help was vital to the continued success and reputation of this event. Thanks to all... hopefully next year we can partner this effort to minimize the double shifts and heavy workload.

TIME TRIAL RESULTS:

Nearly thirty riders finished within the 8 hour scoring period with a best time for the new course of 5:52 set by Ed Bennett.