User:Knight.Watchman/sandbox

Across Ohio Bicycle Adventure A product of Columbus Outdoor Pursuits. The Adventure was founded in 1998 Prior to the ride AOBT, Across Ohio Bicycle Tour was run by AYH, American Youth Hostile - Columbus Council(Now Columbus Outdoor Pursuits) This ride ended in favor of GOBA, Greater Ohio Bicycle Adventure. 10 years later the Across Ohio Bicycle Adventure was founded. Across Ohio Bicycle Adventure or XOBA, Like GOBA, is a product of Columbus Outdoor Pursuits. . Unlike GOBA, XOBA is linear and goes from one end of the state of Ohio to another. Sometimes starting or ending in a neighboring state. The Ride is always the last full week of July, unless Saturday is August 1st then it will end on August 1st.

The current Director is Maureen Williams and Associate Director is Jerry Capehart.

Each year, Columbus Outdoor Pursuits organizes a different route for XOBA, the length of which varies from 450 to 500 miles. In 2012, from July 21 to July 28, the route is designated The Presidents of Ohio Tour in honor of the United States presidents who hailed from the state. Averaging 60 miles a day, the tour will cross Ohio from Marblehead on Lake Erie to Marietta on the Ohio River.

2013 will be the rides "Sweet 16th". "Going Where We have Never Gone Before" and will take riders across 3 states, touching 4 states in the course of the week.

The Ride's Mission and Goal: To provide a cycling adventure, for the rider ready for a more independent touring experience.

The Ride: Join an diverse group of cyclists and support staff through the Greater Ohio Area. The Ride will go through beautiful farmland, forests, back country, along rivers and streams.

The Rider's average 60-ish miles a day; and will have at least two midweek century options for the more adventurous among you that want an additional challenge..

Registration fee includes: XOBA's Official Themed T-shirt, XOBA commemorative wristband, SAG support, 1 boxed lunch, at least 2 catered dinners, XOBA Themed Commemorative pin, Baggage transport, Expert Bicycle Mechanic, Maps, marked route

Bus and bicycle transport from Finish to Start

The Event Staff recommends:
 * 15+ speed bicycle in good working condition
 * Strongly recommend to carry two water bottles.
 * Have enough bags on your bike to carry items you will need/want during the day’s ride (bike tools, extra tubes, patch kits, first aid, food, etc.)
 * Do not bring valuables or items easily damaged by water.
 * Luggage is limited to two duffel bags (only duffels) which are not to exceed a total maximum weight of 50 lbs. per person. All items must be inside these bags, and they must have the official XOBA baggage tags that will be in your registration packet.
 * Bicycling helmets are required! Make sure they are CPSC approved and properly adjusted to fit your head.
 * Each rider must be in good physical condition and trained sufficiently for this event.