Events: The Sourland Semi-Classic 2021

(2021) It was the last event completed before lockdown - the Sourland Semi-Classic. A sign things are improving in our area, Kermesse Sport announced registration for this year’s event, three months later than usual, would go live on BikeReg tonight. The event is capped at 100 participants.

The Sourlands is a preserve in the center of New Jersey featuring wooded hillsides hiding glacial boulders released from the last ice age. The route also features a couple of unpaved roads, but what stands out most is the peaceful nature of the ride. Smaller than the Hell of Hunterdon, but set as its preparatory event, the Sourland Semi-Classic offers an attractive course with a trying climb or two.

Like last year, the ride will be released from V5 Cycles in Flemington and wind out of town straight into one of our favorite unpaved roads from last year - River Avenue. With the last few weeks being dry, expect clouds of dust to reach epic proportions to create that Instagram-worthy post. Be prepared to sprint against a horse or two at the adjacent pasture. The front third of the ride is a great primer for the middle climb of Zion Road and the gateway into the Sourlands Preserve.

After all the social distancing of the last year, here is where we can ride with old buddies in a group again or clear our minds solo to focus on a robust summer events calendar. The Sourlands were hideouts for people in the past: Declaration of Independence signers and Charles Lindbergh. It is only appropriate that the 2021 season starts with the emergence from the Sourland Preserve.

The cycling calendar has been carved out since the last Sourland Semi-Classic, and judging by the social media posts, there are scores of teams snatching up starter spots for any event. With only 100 available positions for participants (with a few more for volunteers), this is not an event to hesitate over. Register now.