When is Storming of Thunder Ridge, John Bell Memorial Ride?
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Where is it?
Start & Finish is at the Jamerson Family YMCA in Lynchburg, Virginia — all routes are predominately in Bedford County.
How do I register?
Register online here or in person.
How much does it cost to register? - Updated info coming soon.
$75 before December 31, 2023; $85 before May 1, 2024; $95 before May 19, 2024 and $110 the day of the ride; May 19th, 2024.
Note that online registration ends at noon on May 17th, 2024. But you can register in Person on Saturday or Sunday the weekend of the ride. This year’s registration includes a SOTR cotton blend t-shirt (guaranteed to those pre-registered before May 1st). A few others goodies too — too many to mention! Special December Rate of ONLY $75!!!!
Can I register the day of the ride?
Yes! The friendly folks at the check-in area will be happy to assist you. Credit cards are accepted.
Where does my registration fee go?
Monies fund the YMCA of Central Virginia’s Community Support Campaign. The ride itself is funded through our generous sponsors and awesome volunteers.
When and where is the packet pickup?
Saturday, May 18th | 2PM to 7PM
Sunday, May 19th | 6:30am - Start of ride
Jamerson Family YMCA
801 Wyndhurst Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24502
434-582-1900
Can I get my packet on the day of the ride?
Yes
When and where does the ride start?
Sunday, May 19th. Check-in begins at 6:30AM.
Jamerson Family YMCA
801 Wyndhurst Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24502
434-582-1900
(The Mountain Loop Route will start in SEDALIA/BIG ISLAND : LOCATION TBD )
You must pick-up your packet at the Jamerson YMCA prior to driving to the mountain only start.
Are there cue sheets?
Yes. They’ll be available at packet pickup, at the start of the ride and at some rest stops. You can also download to your GPS or print out the directions for the 27, 45, 49, 75 or 100 mile rides.
Are there rest stops?
Yup. You’ll find ’em every 15 to 20 miles or so. There is one rest stop for the 27 miler. 3 for the 45 miler; 5 for the metric; and 7 for the century. Each stop will have toilet facilities, food, water, energy drinks, extra cue sheets and a first aid kit. Plus friendly volunteers – be sure to thank them for helping you enjoy a great day on the bike.
What if I get a flat? Will there be mechanical support?
We’ll have SAG vehicles monitoring the course. If you have a mechanical, be sure to pull off safely to the side of the road and wait for a SAG vehicle. Or call the number provided on your cue sheet. Remember, the mechanics are donating their time and services to help you enjoy a great day on the bike, so please be sure to thank them. Please pack your own Tubes/Air/CO2 so you can be ready or change your own flat.
What if I decide to do a different route?
Go for it! All century riders MUST check in at the 5th rest stop before embarking on the century route. Also, please remember to check in with the volunteers when your finish your ride. There will be a time cut-off of 2PM in order to ride the century.
Do I have to start when everyone else does?
It’s a free country, so whatever floats your boat. We do ask that you wait to start at the appropriate times. That’s 7:30am for 75/100 ride and 7:45am for 27 and 45 milers. All cyclists must be on the road prior to 8:30am. If you do feel that you are slower than most riders, and need more time, feel free to start as early as you like but note that the first rest stop won’t be manned until 8am.
What happens at the end of the ride?
Check in with the volunteers so we don’t send a search and rescue team to find you at 10 o’clock at night. Enjoy a post-ride party that includes food, chocolate milk, OJ, soft-drinks, and plenty of fellowships with your cycling friends. Oh, and pat yourself on your back – you’ve completed the ride. And accept our gratitude for helping raise money for the YMCA of Central Virginia’s Community Support Campaign.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Storming of Thunder Ridge is not a race, so smile and enjoy your day. Also, a lot of people have invested time and energy to make this ride possible. Please be sure to thank the volunteers you interact with for their time and support. Have fun!