Exclusive Invitation

Original Message:

Scott,

I'd like to invite the NE members of HUP UNITED to join us for a race not otherwise on your race schedule already, and it certainly is unsanctioned by any state, national or global racing organizations. By invite-only, there will be no race numbers, no support cars, no officials- officially, it's your honor, teamwork and resourcefulness on the line. Part team time trial, part alley-cat, part pursuit, part Cannonball Run, the Gentlemen's Race is a self-supported, self-sustained team race meant to push the boundaries of a typical road race.

We held our first "underground" running of the Gentlemen's Race in the NW last year, so you can get a better idea of what you'd be in for, including video, if you click here: http://www.rapha.cc/continental/index.php?page=606

This will be the first time for a race in the Northeast, and after many possibilities for routes that give us the most chance for an 'epic' day, we've decided upon a loop out/back from New Paltz that will meander through the roads (some gravel- so take note) of the Catskills. Distance is expected to be +/- 125 miles. Exact start/finish locale is tbd in New Paltz.

Have a look at the link to get a feel. Talk quickly amongst yourselves, then get back to me if you want in- and with any questions. If so, we will want to get your roster asap, including the names, gender and racing categories of each riders so we can begin a seeding process for departures. (to avoid sending 100 people racing off at once, we'll send in waves based upon level). First team to the finish wins.

Beyond the knowing and pride that comes with being the winner, the winning team will get their entry fee refunded, take home all the beer and each member will get a Rapha jersey as the top prize.

All the best,

Slate

It's rare that an event like this comes through the neighborhood. From what I've been told, it's even more rare to receive an invitation to be part of such an event. In fact, I've heard Hup United is one of only two New England teams so I was extremely honored to receive the email directly from the organizers.

We've assembled a team of riders that will represent Hup United on May 24th. I've reached out to long standing members of the team as well as our newest addition to gain commitments from

Stephen Jablonski (ok, the picture is actually Mike Salvatore but I couldn't resist including it)

Meg Bilodeau (PVB will be there too but he's riding with his other team)
Tom Needham
Jeff Bramhall (he's offered to carry Yash in his jersey pocket but I don't think that is a good idea)

Scott Rosenthal
Mark Bernard (probably going to see this view a fair amount as we draft him)

The Boston based folks tackled Reparto Corse #3 (Boston Wachusett Boston) this past weekend as preparation for the sufferfest that lies ahead. While we are not disillusioned about victory, we are looking forward to redeeming the Hup name, avoiding a DNF, and enjoying what promises to be a memorable experience. Wish us luck.