Tour dr Gruene, Gruene, TX

Nvember 5, 2011

This is my second year to ride the Tour de Gruene located south of Austin near New Braunfels, TX. This year I rode the 46 mile course. I have to say of the seven events I've ridden in this year this one was the most challenging by far. There appeared to be well over 1,000 riders. The temperature was 39 degrees at the start and once you hit the 14 mile mark (after crossing the canyon along the Guadalupe River) the real tour began…eight miles (each way) of some serious hills around Canyon Lake on this out and back course. The uphill climb to the 46 mile turn around rest stop was a nice touch. Loved the nice climb out of the river canyon at the 42 mile mark as well as the uphill finish. Good roads and support. Great atmosphere. I didn't care much for the late start (by 30 minutes) as everyone got pretty stiff standing there in the cold, but, all in all a fantastic ride. There are also time trial competitions both Saturday and Sunday if racing is your thing. Mark this one on your calendar but bring your climbing legs.

This is my second run at the Tour d'Gruene. It is without a doubt the most scenic ride of the season. The ride starts with the first 11 miles along the River on River Rd (Gristmill river?) down in a canyon. It just doesn't get better than this. I believe we crossed the river 3, or 4 times. There was plenty of support from the local law enforcement, and from the strategically placed rest stops. If you don't want to make any stops, you can load up with all the snacks at the Dance hall after registration. There were a few things that got under my skin about this ride. The start was postponed 30~45 minutes for cold weather. Everyone was ready to go at 7:30 AM, then they decided to postpone the start until 8:00 so it would warm up a little. We heard announcement, after announcement thanking different groups for making the event possible, then they had an event where an older gentleman got on a small bike and did laps. I didn't see much as I didn't have a clear vantage point. Finally, after everyone was yelling "Lets Go!" they went ahead and started the tour. The other problem I had was at the finish line. You will not find ONE single thermos of water or Gatorade ANYWHERE. I'm betting they want you to stop at the rest stop located 6 miles before the finish. Twice I have come through that finish line, and twice, they haven't had any Gatorade or water. They did have free samples of Honey Milk at the finish. All in all, I'll be back next year!