Cycling Challenge Sept. 11 - 13 to Raise Money for Northeast Passage
By Keely Ames, Northeast Passage
September 2, 2009
The sixth annual Three Notch Century to benefit the University of New Hampshire’s
Northeast Passage will be held Sept. 11, 12 and 13, in the White Mountains.
The Three Notch Century will challenge cyclists to conquer 100 miles in one,
two or three days. Handcyclists and bicyclists can choose the number of days
that matches their ability level and desired challenge. This event is designed
for people of all abilities, including expert cyclists and people with disabilities.
The route takes participants on a challenging and scenic ride through Franconia
Notch, Crawford Notch and up and over the Kancamagus Highway.
The three-and two-day options will start in Lincoln and proceed to the Flume
and the State Forest Recreation Trail, riding approximately nine miles of rolling
hills that crisscross the Pemigewasset River to Profile Lake. Some say this
is the most challenging part of the ride with its several gradual uphill climbs.
In Crawford Notch, the road opens up with 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. A fast plummet downhill takes
cyclists through Crawford Notch and into the hustle and bustle of North Conway.
Past the shops is the quietest stretch of road of the ride, tree-lined and
winding; this takes riders along the Swift River—where the water rushes
through jagged rocks and the sights and sounds make riders forget they have
the Kancamagus Highway climb to contend with. Ending with a covered bridge,
Dugway Road puts cyclists onto Rt. 112.
The first six-plus miles of the Kancamagus are relatively easy, riding past
scenic pullouts and overlooks. The views open up as cyclists begin to climb
(hopefully just in time to distract 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 cyclists back in Lincoln before they know it.
The one-day century option starts in North Conway and follows the same route,
tackling the Kancamagus Highway first. This event includes overnight lodging
and meals for those choosing to ride for three or two days and includes a celebration
dinner in North Conway on Saturday, Sept. 12.
The Three Notch Century is sponsored by Martin’s Point Health Care, Portsmouth
Regional Hospital and WPKQ.
Northeast Passage is a program of UNH’s College of Health and Human Services
and an affiliate of Disabled Sports USA. Northeast Passage develops and delivers
innovative, barrier free recreation and health promotion programs. All proceeds
from this event directly benefit Northeast Passage’s programs.
If you are interested in participating in the Three Notch Century, visit www.threenotchcentury.org or
call 2-0070. For more information on Northeast Passage, visit www.nepassage.org.
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