Recap: Back in Black 2023

My friend Pedro and I headed up to the Bridge of Dreams to join Jay Clipse and Matt Simpson (founders of Black Fork Gravel Grinder) for their Back in Black 2023 ride. This is the third official year for the ride following several years of unofficial gathering. Pedro and I rode a short loop before the ride before the sun dropped. 17 riders showed up at the Bridge of Dreams trailhead parking. Temps were in the 60’s and dipped occasionally down in the valleys or in the fog. It was also the Harvest Moon which was a brilliant orange until it rose into the sky. The route (below) is a little over 21 miles and has 3 climbs including Turkey Ridge, one of the toughest climbs in Ohio. I only saw one person ride the entire climb as I walked about 75%. We regrouped at all major intersections and the ride is non-drop. Beautiful evening to be on the bike!