The 7th Annual Tour De Whatcom
Does the ride fee go to charity?
Yes, 100% of your ride fee after expenses goes to charity. In 2010 we chose The Bike Shop as the primary benefactor (The Bike Shop) and they received $18,500. Your ride fee also goes to some local school groups who run each rest stop. If you choose to get pledges, those go directly to the charity of your choice.
What will you have at the rest stops?
We receive very good feedback on our rest-stops...both people and food. Lots of fresh apples, oranges and bananas from Haggen Food and Pharmacy. Ice water with your option to add powder sports drink that we provide. Snack bars from Nature's Path Organic. Bagels with PB&J. And lots of various sweets.
What's the average speed of the riders?
It varies greatly but we'd say the 105 milers range from 13-21 mph. The 50 milers from 11-19mph. And the 25 milers from 8-12mph.
Do you have tech support on the routes?
Very much so. We have several bike techs at the beginning and we have an experienced tech at every rest stop. We have several support vehicles ready to pick you up if you need a lift to the a bike tech or back to the finish area. These vehicles are marked with green and yellow flags. We also have several motorcycles on the course. These are marked by bright yellow vests of the riders. We also have the Fairhaven Bike Club riding the course. No worries. Worst case is we just pick you up.
Where do I park?
Park for free in lot at 6th and Harris only a short ride to starting area. No parking in front of Fairhaven businesses please!
What time should I arrive at Fairhaven Village Green?
If you already have your bib # then you should be in the park no later than 20 minutes before your departure time. If you are getting your bib # that morning, you should be in the park 30-45 minutes prior to your departure time.
Why staggered start times?
Few reasons. It keeps the starts much less hectic. But we find its much easier to have riders finish at about the same time. If one friend wants to the century route and another the 25 miler; no problem. They can ride the last dozen miles together because both will be in the Ferndale Rest-stop about the same time. No one is stuck waiting for hours for their friend to finish.
Is course well marked?
Yes, the course has bright green "Dan Henries" (painted road markings). Having said that, it's still important you glance at your map at each rest stop and get a general sense of where you are going. On the 105 mile route, there are only a few turns that are not at stop signs.
Should I "tip" at rest stops?
We have various local school groups like HS bands running these rest stops. If you like their attitude and service, then it is quite preferred if you tip. If each rider did $2 per rest-stop that would be great. Each rest stop is a different group. So a century rider could bring $12 in singles for tips (five rest stops plus finish area). Sound fair?
Where can I get a T-shirt?
All shirts are on consignment at Fairhaven Bike & Ski. They carry both men's and lady's T-shirts. They look sharp!
Where can we eat after?
It's Fairhaven! There are a dozen of the best restaurants in the County within walking distance of the finish area. Please plan on sticking around and enjoying the area. Many out of town people book a hotel and "make a weekend" of it.
