2001 Mon Valley Century

August 19, 2001

The Mon Valley Century (MVC) was a one-day cycling tour of the Monongahela River Valley in southwest Pennsylvania starting and finishing in Elizabeth PA just 30 minutes south of Pittsburgh on Route 51. The MVC was sponsored by Hostelling International Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh Council, American Youth Hostels) and features rides of 30, 50, 70 and 100 miles. Lunch, rest stops, course maps, and marked routes are provided, and T-Shirts are available. This was the 14th year for the Mon Valley Century.

Registering for the MVC

Pre-registration was encouraged for the Mon Valley Century. Applications can be picked up at your local bike shop or by calling Hostelling International at 412-431-4910 (fax 412-431-2625). Let us know if your bike shop doesn't have any applications and we'll send them a supply also.

An application in Adobe Acrobat format is available online by clicking here.

Costs?

Mail your application to Hostelling International or bring it to the ride. Our mailing address is:

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Starting Point

The MVC will start in Elizabeth from the dance studio. Elizabeth is south of Pittsburgh on Route 51 just after it crosses the Monongahela River. Take the first exit on the right after crossing the bridge and follow the signs to registration. Registration opens at 6:30 am. These starting times are recommended so you will not be too early or late for any of the rest stops. Back to the MVC

Route

Large sections of each ride follow the Monongahela River. The scenery varies from industrial towns to spectacular views of the river and wooded hillsides. You will have a choice of 100 miles, 70 miles, 50 miles or 30 miles. The 100 and 70 mile routes are composed of equal portions of hilly, rolling, and flat terrain. The most challenging climb occurs just out of Brownsville and is nearly two miles long. (The other hills are gentler). The 50 and 30 mile rides are flat to gently rolling, with the exception of one hill near the locks south of Elizabeth, and are well suited for intermediate and beginner riders. All routes will also be marked with arrows on the pavement where practical.

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Food

A wonderful fix-your-own sandwich lunch stop was included for all riders at a park along the Mon River. 70 milers receive one additional snack stop and Century riders receive 2 snacks in addition to lunch. There are also many convenience stores along the route.

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Support

A sag will pick up those who can't finish due to bike problems or fatigue. You and your bike are expected to be in good shape before the ride starts. If you're not sure about the condition of your bike, please take it to your local bike shop for a safety check. While you're there, pick up a spare tube and carry it on the ride.

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T-Shirts

The Mon Valley Century T-Shirt was only $8. However, only riders who prepay for a T-shirt with their registration by August 12th will be guaranteed to receive an MVC shirt. There will be a limited number of shirts for sale on the ride day (mostly L and XL).

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Helmets

Hostelling International Pittsburgh requires cyclists to wear an approved bicycle helmet on all our cycling rides. Look for helmets meeting ANSI Z.90 or Snell B90 standards.

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Proceeds

Proceeds from MVC benefited the former Pittsburgh International Hostel on Warrington Fund and were being used to support the Hostel in the Allentown section of Pittsburgh. The hostel opened June 5, 1967 and had hosted over ten thousand visitors from all around the world.  A portion of the proceeds will also benefit the Monesson Amateur Radio Club, our long time partner in the MVC. The entire amount of any additional contributions beyond the cost of the ride will go to the hostel fund and will be greatly appreciated.

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Mailing List for AYH Cycling Events

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Maintained by Larry Laude and last updated 8/7/01.