Full Notification

MARIN CENTURY 2018 TAKES TO THE WEST COUNTY ROADS

On Saturday, August 4^th, the Marin Cyclists annual Marin Century will take to the roads of Marin County.  Starting at the Civic Center in San Rafael, the route will take participants throughout western Marin and Sonoma Counties (depending on selected ride length).  Riders will begin departing from the starting line at 5 AM with the final route leaving at 7:45 AM.  For more detailed information on the times, routes, and more, please visit the event’s website at:

http://www.marincyclists.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=525458&module_id=262754.

While the different routes will take participants along a range of west county roads, most routes will start with a ride out Lucas Valley Road.  If you are planning a trip to the coast this weekend, please anticipate a very large number of cyclists in the area.  The California Highway Patrol will have additional resources deployed to the areas where large numbers of cyclists are expected.  These resources will not only be on the lookout for aggressive drivers, but also for cyclists who fail to abide by the laws applicable to bicycles. 

We would like to remind the driving public that you are required by law to allow three feet between your vehicle and any cyclist when passing on the roadways.  If three feet is not possible, drivers must slow to a safe and prudent speed (for the cyclist) prior to passing.  Remember, you are in a multi-thousand pound vehicle that is capable of causing major injuries if it comes in contact with a cyclist.  If you find yourself getting frustrated or angry at any delays, taking these frustrations out on ANY of the cyclists will not be tolerated and violators will be cited or arrested if applicable. 

We would also like to remind the cycling community that you are also required to ride as close as practical to the right side of the roadway (with obvious exceptions for debris or other unsafe conditions).  This means there is no tolerance for riding side by side and blocking more of the lane than necessary.  If you find yourself impeding the flow of traffic with 5 or more vehicles behind you, you are required by law to pull over, when safe to do so, and allow the traffic to pass.  If you find yourself approaching an intersection with any traffic control devices (stop signs, stop lights, etc…) you are required to stop or yield, just as a car does.

We wish all of this year’s participants the best of luck in their venture!  The roads you are about to ride are some of the most beautiful rides in the world, and we want you to be safe.  Stay hydrated, stay nourished, and if you need help, call the ride support crews or 911.  You are fortunate to have a great support crew associated with this ride so please don’t leave anything to chance.  To everyone out on the west county roads this weekend, please be safe, and share the road!