Racing bicyclists take on hills

By: centraljersey.com
Bike racers are on the road again.
The 120th annual Century Road Club of America season opened in February and Sunday racing will continue on this course through April 3.
The 5th seasonal race took place Sunday, Feb. 27, on Long Hill Road. The 14.9-mile course consisted of two laps up Long Hill Road, a left turn onto Montgomery Road, right onto Wertsville Road at Otto Farm Park, and back up Long Hill. Spectators had fun watching the struggling athletes manage a difficult hill.
After April 3, the racing location will change. Watch for details.
Twenty-eight riders participated Feb. 28. Race results were as follows: Al Blanchet, 56:45; Don Post, 57:20; Eric Sandrow, 57.50; Dan Larino, 58.09 and Sean Runnett, 58.50. Several persons dropped out. The last position went to Michael Izzo, who came off the disabled list that week to finish in 60:47.
The club has more than 130 members and is the oldest cycling club in the nation. Races and time trials take place every Wednesday and Thursday at 6 p.m. from Woodfern School between May and August.
For information, visit the club Web site at www.centuryroadclub.com. All are welcomed to attend, but only persons in the club or licensed USA Cycling members may participate.
Speeds reached on the down hill portion frequently exceed 42 miles per hour. Club membership ranges in age from the children up to persons over 60 years old.