It's all about who you know. Al and Barry are serious movers and shakers in the mountain biking world here in Western Maine. They have established a Carrabassett Chapter for New England Mountain Biking Association (NEMBA) and it is cranking - 70+ members. I, as one who hates to be officially counted, one who hates to "belong," am not a member, but Jim is. I do help out when I can and do act like a member. This summer they had their first incredible race - 64 miles of mountain biking - all with permission from the Penobscot Nation, Bigelow Preserve, etc. It was awesome! Al and I worked registration - and we had about 100 racers - split between the two of us, so I was pretty familiar with the spiel by the time the race started.
After I worked registration, I worked the Mountainside Grocery parking lot, making sure no one pulling in or out would hit a racer. Just like old times, since I worked there a couple of ski seasons. From there, around 1pm, I was freed from that post and was able to watch - went down to the Carrabassett River and watched from there. At this point, the racers are an easy climb from Route 27 (essentially) up to the Outdoor Center and have 60 miles under their belts - they thought we were torturing them with the beer, but we were really thanking our sponsors.
Waiting for the Awards Ceremony
Since I volunteered, I was invited to the end of the season party up at the Maine Huts and Trails Poplar Stream Hut, sponsored by Geary's. We got up there did a nice long group ride, dinner by Chuck then a fire with a keg and more. Good times.
The morning after - the hike out to the cars from the huts.
Group ride - this guy is so nice. He rides a single speed with no shock - that's Al talking with him.
Group Ride Photo
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