What if I am not an experienced cyclist... Can I still do it?

It is important that you train for this event prior to the event itself. It is not necessary to be a fast rider. There are plenty of rest stops and even support vehicles at the rest stops to carry you if you decide you have reached your limit. That is up to you. The ride is designed for all ability levels.

What if I cannot keep up with the others?

You will be behind them. The best way to take care of this is to train prior to the ride. Those persons who have delayed training until the first morning of the ride have often found that the fellowship they have had with their bike seat has been less than ideal. If you are having a difficult time maintaining the pace of some of the others in the tour slow down. There will be someone from the support team riding at the end to make certain no one is left behind.

I have had some health problems, but I think I am alright. Is it ok to participate?

You are advised to discuss the tour with your physician and follow his/her advice. In most cases we recommend that you encourage your physician to go on the tour along with you as a Golden Retriever. If the physician agrees then we suggest you then ask your banker, broker, lawyer, mechanic, and hairstylist. This is not a requirement, but it certainly helps the fundraising aspects of the tour!

Do I have to carry my gear with me?

It is not necessary for you to carry your gear with you. You may if you prefer. You may also drag a cement block behind you if you would like, although we have yet to have anyone do so. There will be support vehicles which will transport everything for you. They will be at each rest stop waiting for you in most cases.

How can someone get in touch with me during the tour?

We will provide you with emergency numbers which can be used to reach you during the ride. These will be provided for you far enough in advance of the tour for you to pass out to anyone who might have a need. We suggest you use discretion in posting them in public places if you are going to put your name on them.

How often will we get to rest during the ride?

Rest stops will be approximately every ten to fifteen miles. You can ride at your own pace as the group will spread out for several miles. You may also opt to ride in a sag vehicle from one stop to the next.

What kind of bike do I need to ride on the towpath?

The majority of the towpath is a dirt trail. There will be a couple sections which are paved and a couple which are crushed stone. You would be wise to bring either a mountain bike, trail bike or a hybrid. It is possible to complete the ride on a road bike (which has very thin tires) however, if it happens to rain at any time near the tour some of the trail may be soft and difficult for a road bike to travel on. In such a case if you choose a road bike you will no doubt remember the tour for years … and will probably be remembered for just as long.

If I only ride for the weekend how am I going to get back to my car?

Once we arrive at the campground on Sunday evening it is only about ten miles back to Boonsboro where you boarded the charter bus the day before. If you left your car parked there we will transport you back. If you had someone drop you off we can provide you with directions to the campground if you would like to have them meet you there.

What do I need to bring with me?

When you register we will send you a booklet which lists everything you will need, and everything you do not. If you have specific questions email Top Dog.

I have some questions that are not listed here. Now what am I supposed to do?

E-mail your questions to Top Dog.

What if I want to leave my entire estate to the childrens home?

We have decided not to make that a requirement for participation in the ride. However, if after participating you find that this is your desire proper direction can be given.