I will miss marking the course. Marking the course requires you to look at the course as a rider. In addition to marking each turn, you have to look for road hazards like glass, sand, potholes and road debris. Riders probably don’t know but it takes almost a full day to mark the 26, 46 and 66 miles courses, all day for the 100 mile course but we also spend hours reviewing satellite maps to figure out where direction indicators are needed and then drive the routes to ensure we have it right. What I like most though, is spray painting the course (water-soluble); there’s something really fun about that. We really appreciate our volunteers who help with this task!
The other aspect of the Tour I will miss is the look on the riders face’s and their excitement and sense of accomplishment. On the day of the event, I love stopping at the aid stations to speak with riders and volunteers about what they like and what we can do to improve the event. We have an amazing team!
Tyler:
What I miss most is the start of the big ride day! We usually get started at 4:30am, but we’re typically up at 2:30 as there is just so much to do and it is all worth it! It is amazing how much gets done before the riders even show up to the start. This wouldn’t be possible without all the great volunteers and beneficiaries and board members. Thank you all!
Another thing I will miss is watching the start of all the riders coming down yampa street. It is an amazing sight and gives us all the great energy we need to keep the ride going for everyone!
Patti:
I will miss most seeing and chatting with all the participants at Registration. It is always a time to visit and catch up with our yearly riders! And spending time with my Cousin Janet from Seattle! Many years she has flown in to help us out.
I will miss the BBQ and party! Time to relax for a bit, have a beer, and visit with the hungry riders. Working with the Jim ‘n Nick’s staff is truly an awesome experience, they are always excited to be in Steamboat for our event and throw down an amazing BBQ for everyone!
Most of all I will miss having Katie and Abi at my house for the week prepping and staging the Aid Station boxes. Not only is my garage full of hundreds of dollars of goodies, (that I occasionally snack on… some M&M peanuts may go missing) but the humor and fun that go along with those two it is truly delightful!
And when Kent shows up we always get a laugh in!
