Image courtesy of ABRA
The Tour of Tucker County is going to be a hit. This is possibly one of the toughest races on the East Coast. Everyone who has written about it says this ride is clearly for the grimpeurs. According to last year’s race, there is almost 6,000ft of climbing in 37 miles.
Image courtesy of PGH Racing
The pace up to the first climb is going to be fast since it is a slight downhill, but the first hill is a rough. I wouldn’t suggest trying to attack before it, unless your legs are used to doing the speaking for you; just save your energy. At about 6.75 miles in, you will reach the first climb which will last about five miles, with a few flatter rolling hills, then one mile of brutality. At mile 24 or so, there will be a fun downhill that will bring you to a valley before the final six or seven mile climb that only ends once you complete the race.
More than likely, you will suffer, but enjoy this race. ABRA is showing promise in West Virginia, and the sponsors are really helping out to make these events top-notch. If you see me at the race, say hi, grab a free bumper sticker, and let me get a photo of you! 
Image Courtesy of Celerity Cycling
ToTC Links:
http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventid=7506
http://www.iplayoutside.com/Events/?eid=2009/06/11707.html
Photos of 2009 ToTC:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/celeritycycling/sets/72157619284330145/?page=2
http://pghracing.org/2010/05/12/race-preview-tour-of-tucker-county/
http://www.iplayoutside.com/Events/?eid=2010/05/12340.html
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/wv/thomas/420693777268
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/18100494
[...] by lalahsghost If you did’nt know about ToTC, check this out: http://wvcycling.wordpress.com/2010/05/25/tour-of-tucker-county-go/ All photos can be clicked on for larger [...]