Three Notch Century

What a weekend!

2009-09-14T19:47:00.002-04:00

Thank you all for a GREAT weekend in the White Mountains. It couldn't have been better -the weather was beautiful, the people were great and the riding was spectacular. We had a record number of riders - 77 one day riders, 24 three day riders and 19 two day riders. Fantastic showing!

Thanks again for making the trip and your support!

We're look forward to next year!
Save the date: Sept. 10, 11 & 12, 2010.

Feels like riding weather...

2009-08-31T14:56:00.002-04:00

We're hoping Mother Nature has these silly-northeast-bound Tropical Storms out of her system! Today feels like great late summer riding weather - 70 degrees, sunny, with a light breeze - what could be better!?

Join us and go for a ride in the White Mountains - some of the most beautiful riding this part of the country has to offer!

We hope you'll join us for the 2009 Three Notch Century!

Less than 1 month away!

2009-08-20T13:57:00.002-04:00

What are you waiting for?

The 2009 ride is less than a month away! We can't believe how fast it's creeping up and we know it will be here before we know it. It's never too early to register and start fundraising - several of our riders just started this week and are already at $500 dollars. It's easier than you think and people will give because they're asked.

Don't miss the fun! Register today!

Less than 2 months away!

2009-07-24T15:46:00.003-04:00

We're less than two months away and we're gearing up for the 2009 ride! We can't wait to be loading up outside the North Conway Grand and getting ready to climb up and over the Kanc!

It finally feels like summer in the Northeast and that makes us feel like it's time to ride...

We hope you'll join us this September! It's not too early to register! Do it today and plan your weekend in the White Mountains.

Firstgiving: The Art of A Great Site

2009-06-15T13:29:00.002-04:00

So, you've been thinking of raising money online for the Three Notch Century - maybe you've even started your page - but you're not sure what to do with it or how to make it snappy.... Check out these examples from around the country:

Keith is raising money for the Special Operation Warrior Foundation, running 100 miles from Key Largo to Key West
Leslie is raising money for the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota
Laura is the Executive Director of Mustard Seed Communities
Maggi is an Account Manager at Firstgiving

Your email announcement and your page should speak to your contacts! Add a little pizzazz by embedding Flickr pictures or YouTube videos. Also, be sure to upload a picture of yourself!

Want to spread the word faster? Link your Firstgiving page from your Facebook profile! Think outside the box and create a buzz.

As always, we're here if you need ideas and tools.

Three Days: Our Point of View

2009-06-04T14:54:00.005-04:00

The AMC Highland Center in Crawford Notch

The following description shows you the ride from a different point of view. It's the Three Day option (the two and one day options are very similar!)

Starting in Lincoln, NH, the beginning of the route will take you through the resort town of Lincoln…past the shops and attractions (even Clark’s Bears!) and on to the Flume, a natural granite gorge at the base of Mount Liberty. Entering the State Forest, you will pick up the Recreation Trail consisting of approximately nine miles of rolling hills as you crisscross the Pemigewasset River to Profile Lake. You will even catch a glimpse of the former spot of the Old Man in the Mountain. Some say this is the most challenging part of the ride, with its gradual uphill climb.

Heading east on Route 302, you will enter Crawford Notch. This is the most open and, in our opinion, most scenic section of the route…There are stunning views of Mt. Washington and the elegant hotel with the same name. Towering cliffs frame the road and several waterfalls dot this section of the route. Day one ends at the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Highland Center at the height of the Notch. The AMC’s cozy (accessible) bunk rooms, and the sprawling grounds, are the perfect place to unwind after a day of riding. You’ll find most of the group sipping wine or locally brewed beers in the Adirondack chairs on the back lawn… or meandering the nearby trails or enjoying the overstuffed chairs and fireplace in the main lodge. Dinner is family style in the Center’s large dining room – and includes tasty, mostly organic and local foods.

Day two begins with a plummet downhill and we encourage everyone to stop gawking at the beautiful surroundings and keep their eyes on the road! As the road curves, enjoy the flight downhill, keeping in mind you are right in the midst of some of the best scenery the White Mountains has to offer.

At the bottom of the hill, you will ride through the tiny town of Bartlett and past Attitash ski resort and then you will push on into the outskirts of North Conway. North Conway is a bustling tourist destination with outlet malls, large hotels and a plethora of attractions. Our stop for the night is at the North Conway Grand Hotel at the far end of town. Just as the name implies, this hotel is grand. Full of North Country touches – like a large stone fireplace in the lobby, antler chandeliers and large stuffed moose – the hotel is for vacationers. Between the hotel’s four indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, the nearby (walking distance) outlet shops, and comfortable rooms for napping, the North Conway Grand is the perfect place to spend an afternoon and evening. Dinner is served in one of the banquet rooms and brings all riders together. Breakfast the next morning is buffet style.

Day three leaves the hustle and bustle of North Conway behind and puts you on the quietest stretch of road of the ride, tree-lined and winding, this road has little traffic. Dugway Road takes you along the Swift River – where the water rushes through jagged rocks and the sights and sounds make you forget you have the Kancamagus Highway climb to contend with. Ending with a covered bridge, Dugway Road puts you right out onto Rt. 112. The first 6 or so miles of the Kanc. are relatively easy, coasting past scenic pullouts and overlooks. The views open up as you begin to climb (hopefully distracting you from the burning and exhaustion). The summit makes the pain all worth it – expansive views of the whole valley and sense of accomplishment for having made it this far! Again, another fast downhill will put you back in Lincoln before you know it.

Great Party!

2009-05-27T10:49:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all who came to Red Hook last week. We had a GREAT time, fabulous weather and it was great to see so many new AND familiar faces. We love hearing your memories, stories and your new recruiting tactics for this year's ride.

As you begin to plan for September, please remember all of our great prizes:

*$1,000+ - Anyone who raises over $1,000 will be given a coveted jersey.
*Individual Top Fundraiser - Two tickets to see the Boston Red Sox
*Team Top Fundraisers - Hip cycling gear bags
*Most Spirited Team - Signature Three Notch Century fleece blanket
*Most Recruits – iPod Shuffle

*Northeast Passage - Polka Dot Jersey Challenge– Awarded to the company or organization recruiting the most riders and displaying the most spirit and dedication to the ride. Organization will be given the coveted “challenge cup” to display for one year, then they must relinquish and defend the crown! Last year the cup went to Martin's Point Health Care and they are eager to defend it!

Get goin'!

Outside Magazine - Cycling Issue

2009-05-11T15:31:00.002-04:00

Check out this month's issue of Outside Magazine for the 44 best bikes of 2009, simple repairs you can do, apparel, goods, shoes, helmet recommendations, and more!!

Click here for the online version

Don't forget our KICK OFF PARTY is one week from tomorrow (see post below)! We hope you can join us... Bring two friends and be entered to win a fabulous prize!

2009 Kick Off Party

2009-04-07T16:12:00.001-04:00

Please join us!
Northeast Passage invites you to a
Three Notch Century kick-off party

Tuesday, May 19, 2009
5:30-7:30pm
Red Hook Brewery
35 Corporate Dr., Pease Tradeport, Portsmouth, NH

We hope you will come learn more about the event and Northeast Passage, meet other riders, get fundraising tips, register and get pumped! Light refreshments will be served. There is no fee for this event and no RSVP required.

Inspiration

2009-04-02T14:15:00.002-04:00

A bright, sunny day - 2008's Three Notch Ride. Don't miss it this year!

New E-mail List - Sign up now!

2009-02-25T15:21:00.003-05:00

We have just created a BRAND NEW Three Notch Century e-mail list. Subscribers will be sent general updates and information (such as reminders to sign up, kick off party information, volunteer needs, etc).

**If you have ridden with us in the past, you have already been added to the list and there's no need to subscribe. You may unsubscribe at any time.

The first update for '09 will be sent in early April.

Click here to subscribe now.

Once you have registered for the event online (through Firstgiving), you will receive specific announcements/information directly related to this year's ride (these announcements will ONLY go to registered participants, not the whole e-mail list).

Stay in touch!

Cross Training

2009-02-20T15:17:00.004-05:00

Here is a brief list of cross training activities:

Swimming, Running, Walking, Hiking, Spin Classes, Stairmaster, Weight Training, Aerobics Classes, Dance and Cross Country Skiing.

Keep your routine fun and fresh! You can even join us for a Cross Country ski. Check our calendar for a list of events.

Be sure to warm up and stretch!

Time to Ride....??

2009-02-10T15:22:00.001-05:00

This past weekend, we saw temperatures around 50 degrees - and we saw our first cyclists of the season out on the roads. This proves: It's never too early to get out and ride!

Be Fit!

2009-01-29T12:16:00.001-05:00

We encourage you to keep up your fitness level throughout the winter, but don't forget to take care of your bike too!

Check here for Winter Maintenance tips!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-29T11:53:00.000-05:00

2009 is here and we're already gearing up for September (it will be here before we know it). We have some exciting changes in store for this year and we can't wait to get going!

After we finished riding in 2008, we were energized by the mountain air and we, once again, wanted to perfect the event. With help from our dedicated event committee, we have decided to call the North Conway Grand Hotel our event headquarters. We are excited to do this and they are glad to have us!

Here's how it will work:
Friday, Sept. 11 - Three Day Ride Begins at Loon Mountain. We will ride through Franconia Notch and to the top of Crawford Notch and spend the night at the AMC Highland Center. No change here.

Saturday, Sept. 12 - Two Day Ride begins at Loon Mountain. One Day ride begins at North Conway Grand Hotel in North Conway. The two day riders will make their way to North Conway (just like last year) and the one day riders will ride the Kanc, Franconia Notch and Crawford back to North Conway.

ALL riders will meet at the North Conway Grand Hotel for a celebration - to include food, prizes, etc...

This change will allow us to all be together for a meal, it moves the century to a more rider-friendly day (Saturday) and allows century riders to make a weekend of it. On Sunday (9/13), the three and two day riders will finish out the weekend with a ride up and over the Kanc. and back to Loon (no change here).

Please take a moment to look around the Three Notch Web site. It has all the information you need for the weekend. Please join us!

What are you waiting for!?

2008-08-07T12:04:00.001-04:00

We know you're out there!

One month from today, your ride will be over, you will be putting away your gear and heading back to the hustle and bustle of life. You will be driving home thinking, "I am SO glad I did that!"

Now, it's time to TAKE THE CHALLENGE! Sign up today!

61 Days and Counting...

2008-07-07T13:42:00.000-04:00

We're getting closer! In honor of the 61 day mark, here are 10 reasons you should ride the Three Notches with us:

1. It's for a great cause

2. The White Mountains truly are one of the most beautiful places on earth (in our opinion) and it doesn't get much better than September.

3. You will ride and socialize with fantastic people.

4. It's challenging - who doesn't need a challenge!?

5. If you start training by riding your bike to work, you will save on gas money.

6. You can "techno detox" - no cell phone, no TV, no computer

7. Great views, fresh air, good food

8. Get a free massage when you're done!

9. It's good for your mind, body and spirit

10. You CAN do it!

Happy Summer!

2008-06-23T16:15:00.000-04:00

Now that summer is officially here, it's REALLY time to START training and fundraising. Seriously. September will be here before we know it. Today is the perfect day to hop on the bike and get going!

Northeast Passage's official first training day is July 17. We invite you to come to Durham, NH and ride with us! Rides start in the evening at the Northeast Passage office. We will continue training through August. If you need motivation, this is the perfect setting. We're in this together!

Also, it's not too early to sign up for the ride! Several folks are already getting a jump start on their fundraising. Visit www.firstgiving.com/nepassage to sign up today! Remember, you are eligible for GREAT prizes - including RED SOX tickets and more!

Here's a tip to get you started:
*Form a team to ride and fundraise together
Team up with friends, neighbors, coworkers, family, etc...and commit to train, ride and fundraise together. We have found that creating a competition amongst the Northeast Passage staff gets our family and friends involved, it's fun for everyone, and it makes it much less intimidating! We have consistently raised over $5,000 by doing it together.

MORE TIPS and INFORMATION TO COME!

Get out and ride!

Great Party!

2008-05-22T07:14:00.000-04:00

Thank you to ALL who stopped by the Gas Light on Tuesday. The turnout was great, the energy was palpable and we are looking forward to September.

We appreciate your support of Northeast Passage!

Kick Off Party!

2008-04-29T16:49:00.000-04:00

Greetings Three Notchers!

It's officially spring in New England and, even though it's raining today, we're getting ready to kick it into high gear and start preparing for the Three Notch event in September (yes, we're serious). We hope you will join us on TUESDAY, MAY 20 at the Portsmouth Gas Light restaurant (3rd Floor) for food and fun. We see this as a great opportunity to meet other riders, learn about the ride and get pumped! We will be there from 6-9pm, eating pizza and planning strategy for training and fundraising. There is no fee for this event and no RSVP required. We hope to see you there!!

On another note, please let us know if there's anything you would like to see on this blog. We are taking suggestions! We have great ideas that will be posted in the near future, including: nutrition tips, bike maintenance and preparation, fundraising tips and tricks, etc... Please feel free to leave comments and chat it up with other riders. This is a great place to make connections before the event in September. We're all in this together!

Happy Riding and SEE YOU in Portsmouth on 5/20!

Northeast Passage Announces 2008 Cycling Schedule

2008-03-28T09:39:00.000-04:00

April 12: Introductory Cycling Clinic - Durham NH
Rain or shine, join NEP and Bike-On.COm for the opportunity to see and try all the adaptive cycles currently on the market

May 3: Back Bay Ride - Portland ME

May 29 & June 12: Nashua River Rail Trail - Ayer MA

July 17, August 4, 14, 28: Training Rides for the Three Notch Century - Durham
Get ready to take on the Three Notches this September by training with the NEP crew this summer. Each ride will increase in mileage and difficulty!!

September 5-7: 3 Notch Century - White Mountains of NH
100 miles in one, two or three days, through Franconia Notch, Crawford Notch and over the Kancamangus Highway...are you up for the challenge?? Visit www.threenotchcentury.org for details.

September 21: Cape Cod Rail Trail - Brewster, MA
Meet us at Nickerson State Park for a ride through the woods along kettle ponds....make your pans early and camp here for the weekend!

Cycling Equiptment and instruction provided by the good people of Northeast Passage. Program fees vary and support the Northeast Passage Cycling Program.

BUT PLEASE!!! RSVP with Northeast Passage to secure your spot on the rides and the equiptment you need. Equiptment available on a first come first serve basis!! Call NEP at 603-862-0070 or email Northeast.Passage@unh.edu.

Oh and bring your friends and family and if you want to volunteer - please do!!!

Welcome to the Three Notch Century Ride Blog!

2008-03-06T11:56:00.000-05:00

Hello from your official Three Notch Century Blog. This is a forum designed for YOU the participants and riders to get all of the information you need about the ride. In addition your encouraged to email us things you would like to see posted on the blogs. Training Rides, For Fun Ride Routes, Gear Specials....whatever you'd like!

Again this is a tool designed for YOU!

If there is anything you would like to see posted here simply send an email to threenotchcentury@gmail.com and we'll get the post up there.

We're looking forward to making this year the best ride yet!!

Now if the snow would only melt and they would fix the crater size potholes....

Sincerely,

Blogmaster