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the Potomac Pedalers Touring Club of Washington, DC, proudly presents the Back Roads Century on Sunday, September 23, 2012 in the Shenandoah Valley.  Come join us for one of the most beautiful rides in America. Each fall, cycling enthusiasts gather for this scenic ride, just west of Washington, DC. The Virginia countryside is an ideal setting for riding, with gently rolling hills, historic landmarks and fun!  We'll have rides of 25, 30, 50, 65 and 100 miles.
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five distances to choose from, 100, 65, 50, 30, and 25 miles Choose the distance that's suits your ability. There's the 100 mile century ride for experienced cyclists.  A 65 mile metric century, for those who aren't quite ready for the full 100 miles.  A 50 mile half century. A 30 mile extended quarter century.  And a 25 mile quarter century that's family-friendly over easier terrain.
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it's not just about riding, we'll also have some fun Riding is just part of the activities we have planned. After the ride we'll have a cookout with home-made barbecue, hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and other treats, which is included in your registration fee.  Looking for that perfect souvenir of your 100 mile ride?  We'll have Back Roads Century logo gear and our DJ will keep the party going while he hands out door prizes.  So be sure to stick around after the ride.
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be sure to slow down, you might just see some History Our rides travel through historic towns and villages that helped shape our nation's history. We start in Berryville, VA, a colonial crossroads settlement.  You’ll pass through the historic towns of Middleway and White Post; and one of our rest stops is at the Burwell-Morgan Mill, established in 1785.
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enjoy the sights of the Shenandoah Valley Come see some of the most beautiful scenery in America. The Shenandoah Valley lies between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east, the Allegheny Mountains to the west, the Potomac River to the north, and the Roanoke Valley to the south.  Enjoy the open meadows, farmlands, historic towns and beautiful fall foliage.
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Event Photos

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MarathonFoto, the official photographer at the Back Roads Century, took lots of pictures at the event.  You can purchase photos by clicking on the link below.  If you're unable to locate your photos online, please contact MarathonFoto by clicking on the Customer Service link.

Click here to view photos

Click here for customer service

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Got Questions?

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Check out our Frequently Asked Questions for everything you've ever wanted to know about a Century, but were afraid to ask.  Learn the basics such as, what is a Century or how do I use a cue sheet? You've got questions, we've got answers.

More To Explore...

Need to get Ride-Ready?  Then this is the place to be.  You'll learn about indoor training, mileage logs, weightlifting, nutrition, cycling gear, and more.


Frontpage Image trainerTraining
Here's where you'll learn the best and most efficient ways to train for a Century.  Whether it's on the road or in your basement, we've got you covered.

 
Frontpage Imageduraace Equipment
Learn what equipment works best for a Century, and how to be sure you get the right products to match your ability level.  We're gearheads and we know it.
 
Frontpage Image appleFitness and Nutrition
You not only have to be a strong cyclist to complete a Century, you have to be strong.  Learn about fitness and nutrition for Century riding.
  
 
Frontpage Imagebook Cycling Stories
Members of Potomac Pedalers submit cycling stories each month for our newsletter titled "Pedal Patter".  Here you'll find a selection of stories about cycling adventures.

 

Cycling Polls

What's your typical weekend ride?

Century News

2012 Ride Date Announced
The Back Roads Century will be held on Sunday, September 23, 2012.  The Potomac Pedalers Board Of Directors made the announcement at their annual meeting on January 22, 2012.

Google Groups

Join or visit our Google Group to connect with other Back Roads Century riders.
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2010-11 Rider Comments

WHAT A GREAT RIDE! Thank you so much. It was so well organized. The course was beautiful, the food was delicious, I almost did a second loop just to get another round of potatoes and tomato sandwiches! I love my shirt and water bottle. The "after party" was great at the high school. An all-around fabulous day! I can't thank you enough! My only complaint is that it's only once a year! Already looking forward to next year’s ride!

Sincerely, Meg

It was a great day! Everything during the Century was done so well. It was safe, superbly staffed and directed. The cue sheets were perfect. Thank you so much for all you and the staff did to create such a wonderful opportunity and experience for everyone that participated

Ed and Trudy

Just a note to thank you and the entire staff for sponsoring a great bike ride. It is my first since doing tri's many years ago, and I had a great time. The course is so unbelievably beautiful and the goodies, just perfect. I look forward to next year. The musicians at the 13 mile rest stop were terrific; I could have spent a whole lot more time just hanging out around them. What a treat.

Best regards, Barbara

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