Blue Ridge Brutal 2024

OVERVIEW
Embark on the Blue Ridge Brutal (BRB) Ride with four enticing options: 100, 70, 50, or 25 miles, all commencing and concluding at the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson (refer to the ride location below). Delve into the details of each route’s twists and turns, as well as elevation gains, available on the route maps. While undeniably challenging, each journey unveils the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina.

Every penny generated from the Blue Ridge Brutal contributes to scholarships for graduating seniors via the Ashe Advantage Project (501c3).

Explore the 2012 Ride account by Aaron West for additional insights.

Assault on Mt. Jefferson
Brace yourself for the Assault on Mt. Jefferson, a 3.4-mile bonus challenge open to a select 80 riders. Not for the faint-hearted, this ascent boasts an elevation gain of nearly 1,476 feet, akin to a Category 2 climb. Those conquering this challenge after their main ride will be shuttled back to the finish point, with no cycling down allowed – apologies!

Registration and Packet Pickup
Secure your spot for the 2023 BRB Ride starting March 1, 2023.

Pick up your packet from 5-8 pm on Friday, 8/18, and 6-7:45 am on Saturday, 8/19.

Participant slots are capped at 500, irrespective of your chosen ride length.

Ashe County Civic Center

Start Time
All rides kick off at 8 am.

Parking
Ample parking at the Ashe Civic Center and in the nearby lot across the street. If opting for the latter, be considerate as it serves shoppers; park away from the stores. Roadside parking should be cautious to avoid blocking driveways and public rights of way.

Safety
Mandatory helmet use for all riders. Ensure your bike is in top condition for the chosen route.

Route Signs & Control
Clearly marked routes with volunteers at key intersections. Each rider receives a map detailing all four routes, turns, distances, and cumulative totals.

Rest Stops
Strategically positioned rest stops, indicated on the map, cater to each route’s needs:

100 miles: 6 rest stops
70 miles: 4 rest stops
50 miles: 3 rest stops
25 miles: 1 rest stop
Assault on Mt. Jefferson: 1 rest stop at the summit
SAG Support
Support and Gear (SAG) volunteers provide assistance, though not as mechanics. Carry necessary supplies, especially if you have specific bike requirements, as spares may be limited. Be prepared for sporadic cell phone service.

Rules
Adherence to North Carolina traffic laws is mandatory. Maintain vigilance for motor traffic.

Finish Time
Chip timing by Start 2 Finish, LLC, with finish times promptly available on the website. Riders exceeding 9 hours won’t receive a finish time. E-bikes are separately chip-timed.

Route Changes
Inform a volunteer if you switch routes at the finish line.

Rider Goodies
A pre-ride goody bag awaits all participants.