Lake Chelan Rotary Club Presents... 
June 14th 2008
Chelan Century Challenge
Sponsored by...
Coldwell Banker Associated Realty, Inc
Wal-Mart

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Century Challenge:
Ride $49, Junior (10-15)  $25 

Includes maps, support, refreshments,
and souvenir shirt.

The Challenge Route: We challenge you to do the Chelan Century which has become one of the premier rides in the Northwest in just 5 short years. The venue is unique, combining some very challenging routes with captivating scenery. You'll ride from the spring beauty of ripening orchards & vineyards  into the mountainous terrain sorrounding one of the world's most spectacular glacial carved lakes. The ride is comprised of 3 loops, each of which combines high desert & mountain scenery with the cool restful repose of the lake.

Our 2008 version added a tough climb near the end of the route which really tested the resolve and conditioning of even the best riders and yet, over 70 people completed the gnarly grind.  The 2009 event will welcome back the tough McNeil Canyon route which will be more bike friendly with the newly surfaced road.

Don't worry if you don't finish... Most people don't!

Segment 1: The Manson Valley loop is gorgeous! Winding along the lake and up through some heart throb hills to the local ski area we climb.Then down out of the mountainous terrain past vineyards, apple, pear and ripening cherry orchards we rest.Climb again and then some more before descending through the town of Manson returning to Don Morse Park along the scenic North Shore Drive.

Photo by Don Lloyd

Segment 2:  Appleacres Loop--(This year we change this loop due to highway construction.)  It begins and ends at Don Morse Park.  Head east out of town and follow signs past the airport on Highway 97A.  Turn left (north) on Highway 97 parallel to the Columbia River, then back to 97A via Appleacres Road.  We'll direct you to another segment along the River and back to town.

Segment 3: Coulee Loop--This loop begins again at the Park but heads along the south shore of the Lake, up and over Knapp Coulee to the Columbia River briefly, and finally over the Navarre Coulee.  At the State Park, the route heads back to town via Southshore Road.  The final little twist to test  your fitness as you approach that "Century Mark", is a little jog up the Butte road to enjoy a final thrill and spectacular views as you descend the 681' that you just climbed in the last 1 1/4 mile.  

Easy Ride:  For those with limited climbing desires and perhaps not ready for the full century, we have a beautiful south shore route to 25 Mile Creek.  The route is scenic with limited climbing (<1000' ).and follows the lake the entire route of approximately 42 miles.  A rest stop at the 25 Mile Creek Campground will give you opportunity to cool your heels in the lake. 

View from the upper side of McNeil Canyon

Photo by Don Lloyd

Origin of the Century Challenge: This fifth running of the Chelan Century Challenge originated with Wayne Martin (no relation to Dean) who founded the infamous Markleeville Death Ride in California.  Check the Death Ride link and see why this ride has grown into one of the most renowned rides in America.

Purpose: Chelan Rotary has several projects for which the proceeds of the Century Challenge are to be used.  The fund beneficiaries have included the local Teen Center; a structured after school program to assist young people with academic and social skills.  We will also fund scholarships, Rotary International Youth exchange, and other service projects including two award winning city park developments... Click Here to view a list of projects funded by the Chelan Rotary and the Chelan Century Challenge.

Equipment and Preparation: To get in shape, ride many, many miles with hours of time in the saddle. Climb many hills of one mile or more in length. Drink lots of water while riding. The temperature may be hot or cool with wind or maybe even rain. The weather will likely be wonderful but this is the dry side of the mountains and so you'll lose water without realizing it.You must wear ANSI or Snell approved helmets and your registration number. Have your bicycle in proper condition with spare tubes, good tires, brakes and gearing low enough to allow you to handle steep terrain. Mechanical support will be on hand but you must pay for parts or repairs other than minor adjustments. Carry water bottles, ID, sunscreen, etc. For gears, we recommend a 39 on the front or a triple chain ring and/or a 28 on the back.

A BIG THANK YOU!!!
To all the sponsors that make this ride possible.

Our Premier Sponsors

Wal-Mart