Events: Kermesse’s Oktoberfest and Why You Should Sign Up Soon
(2015) I’ve done many events. From races to fundraisers, I’ve experienced the gamut of cyclists in the northeast. Of all the events I’ve done, none have actually had a demand for non-participant registration like the Oktoberfest in Collegeville, PA this upcoming Sunday. The field is limited to 250 participants and it’s quickly approaching that - as of now there are 193 riders registered. Last year was this event’s first year, and it delivered in many ways. The temperature was quick to wake everyone up, the foliage was on peak display, groups waited at the top of climbs and intersections, and – to be honest – we were all just making room for the post-ride activities.
Kermesse resurrected the old Univest Grand Prix route that Tom Boonen rode many years ago. This route was, and still is, truly beautiful. For those doing the longer course we’ve been mentally preparing for the sheer cliff of Eichele Road we’d have to ascend.
Since it looks like the weather will be magnificent for Sunday’s event, there’s just one more item to scratch our proverbial chins at in the form of Appalachian Brewing Company’s post-ride party. Naturally I do a ride and am so knackered I pass out in my car, but this event rolls out a proper red carpet.
Last year saw each participant get to select one of the pub’s craft beers. Riders also followed their noses to the brats and kraut provided in a private room just for the event. Still not convinced about the beautiful weather, beautiful course, and wonderful post ride food? Then hopefully the fact that Kermesse has a pretty decent command of the restaurant for much of the mid-afternoon will be the last necessary convincing statement. And don’t worry about parking they have plenty.
Like I said, it’s not every event that people sign up just to partake in the post-ride event. It’s also not every event that people look forward to months in advance because of the great offerings. If it’s a matter of leg power, consider that this year Kermesse is offering a shorter course that cuts out the wheezy bound up Eichele. But if the long course is for you, Eichele is really not that bad.
