The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (2013)

After my lengthy cycling injury, I had to make the tough call as to whether or not I proceed with my plans to ride with my superstar cycling team in June.
It wasn't just the injury either.  I had taken on a lot at work this summer with a large project, and no help.  So the reality was, I hadn't trained a bit, and even forty miles on flat terrain was a push for me.
But I paid $260 for this ride (probably the lowest of any 7 day ride I've ever signed up for).  And do I quit when the going gets tough? That was a resounding NO!!!
Plus, there were two things working for me.  I had a team, a group of friends that I had known from previous rides, that would be my cheerleaders, and also, knowledge of the fact that Ohio (and this ride in particular would be flat.
So I got in my car and made the two day journey to Ohio by way of I-70 from Colorado.  It was a two day journey, and my first time in the state.  I'm sure you won't be shocked, when I tell you I saw a lot of this:

The tour goes through a lot of rural, Western Ohio, by way of old state and county roads (and yes, a few bike trails).  Keep in mind, that even rural Ohio is pretty populated, and you won't go halfway through a ride without a stop in a town with a Subway, or a Quick Stop. So, despite the fact that meals weren't included in the $260 admission price, there was plenty of support on the ride.  

This was also one of the first rides that I had done that had optional days.  That is, on some days, your beginning and ending point are the same.  So for those that don't feel like they have as much to prove, they can take a break and tour some of the sights of Western Ohio.  One of our riders did tours of the Airstream Camper Assembly plant, the Kitchen Aid factory, and even did an airplane tour.  Admittedly, these are not things you would probably plan on seeing in your lifetime, but since you are there, they are kind of cool to see. 

You'll also be delighted by other hometown curiosities.  For example, in the city of Troy, an artist made real-life sculptures throughout the town.  It was pretty cool to go out and see catch a photo of them all (like real life Pokemon).  

The ride itself has gathered quite a following in Ohio, as evidenced by the multitude of people who were making this ride their 5th, 10th, and 15th GOBAs.  However, it's not my style (or my level of paid time off) to repeat a ride.  

All in all, this was a laid back relaxing tour of the country.  Not too hot, and actually not very rainy either.  You'll probably make some new friends.  You'll definitely find a place to have a beer.  And if the going gets too tough, you'll probably be able to take a day or two off.  

This ride would be great, if I could just find my BLACK bag.