Cascade Advanced Training Rides-E (CATS) #9: Tacoma Narrows- 76mi Bri­sk-Stren.

Join us for the 2015 Cascade Advanced Training Rides (CATS), Eastside edition. This is a series for experienced riders building to a successful one-day STP, a strong RAMROD finish--or both! Saturdays from April 4th through early August. Rides typically depart from points around the Eastside, building from 55-120 miles. Please read through the CATS Eastside Rider Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DP8dd3lg8yJilHxR61GCY0K7WHULEPkbMatoZMIMlv0/edit?usp=sharing) for a full schedule and details about how we roll.

Pace-lining Rules/Requirements: The Eastside CATS rides encompass pace-lining. We plan to teach riders how to safely pace-line and expect all riders who wish to participate to follow guidelines of pace-lining (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzD00aD930E3WWRidmJZbmFMUjQ/view?usp=sharing). Riders should review the route before the ride and the pace-line rules and have a cycling computer. Those who do not wish to participate will be asked to ride at the back at all times.

Route: This week's route takes us from West Seattle to Tacoma, across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, through Gig Harbor, and return to West Seattle via the Southworth Ferry back to Fauntleroy (no fare required). Please note: This is an ALL-DAY ride. Ferry crossing time is 40 minutes and ferries run every 40-60 minutes from 2:25 to 5:30 p.m.

Tools and skills needed to change a flat absolutely required.

Ride Start: You must show up early enough to hear the route briefing and safety notes. We will begin the briefing 10 minutes before the start of the rides.

Fenders required if there is any chance of rain. Strictly enforced.

Weather: Showers Cancel (If ride is cancelled, it will be posted here 2 hours before the start; ride leaders will not be at the start if ride is cancelled.)

Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6869141

Mileage: 77.6mi, 5527ft

Rest stops: 20.9 (Safeway), ALT at 27.1 (Starbucks), 57 (Fred Meyer, etc.)

Ride Director: Cathy Henley

Other notes: There is a bathroom at the ride start. We are not doing a formal lunch, so bring snacks for en-route or plan to purchase something at rest stops.