Cyclist will start 1/4 mile south of Watonga and ride south to Geary where they will do a u-turn and ride back to the start.  The train will begin in Geary and head north to Watonga.  Because of track limitations, the train cannot travel faster than 10 mph.  So as riders are traveling south, they will meet the train and begin the chase to catch and hopefully pass the train on the return trip to Watonga.   The route is approximately 32.5 miles so you do the math on how fast you need to ride to beat the AT&L.  

Proceeds from the 2011 Race The Rail will go to Young Survival Coalition (YSC), the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections and outreach so women feel supported, empowered and hopeful. 

Date/Start Time:  Saturday, October 8, 2011 @ 9:00 a.m.

Registration:  $30 per rider through October 1.  $35 from October 1 - October 6.  On-line registration will end at midnight, October 6, 2011.  Participants can register on the day of the event starting at 6:30 a.m..  Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Children's Miracle Network.

Route:  Riders will start and end approximately 1/4 mile south of Watonga on US 270/281 at an old Ford Dealership.  The route travels south on US 270/281 to Geary and turns around at Main Street and returns to the starting location.

Distance:  32.5 miles

Highway Condition:  Asphalt highway in good condition with wide shoulders.  Rumble strips exist for most of the route but the wide shoulders allow riders plenty of room.

Food/Drinks:  water and snacks will be provided to riders before, during and after the event.  One rest stop will be in Geary at the turn-around.  There will be no rest stops between Watonga and Geary.  All registered participants will receive an admission ticket to the Watonga Cheese Festival. 

Ride Support:  The route WILL BE OPEN TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC and all cyclist must obey all traffic laws.  The course is not closed to vehicles however law enforcement will be on scene to manage traffic as best as possible.  All riders must wear a helmet during the event.  

SAG:  Support and Gear vehicles will be present during the event until 12:00 noon.  At that time, any rider remaining on the course will be responsible for their own support.  No SAG vehicles or rest stop will be available after 12:00.  

Facilities:  Porta-Potties will be available at the start/finish line.

Parking:  Parking will be available at the start/finish line. 

Awards:  All riders who beat the train back to Watonga will receive a 2011 Race the Rail rail spike.  All registered riders will receive a cowbell. 

Non-competitive Event:  This event will not be timed.  Either you beat the train or you don't. 

Wheeler Dealer Bicycle Shop
(405) 947-6260
wdbicycle@gmail.com