Half-Century Ride
About the Half-Century
This ride is great for cyclists of moderate ability. If you have done some 20-25 mile rides, you might surprise yourself at your ability to now do a Half-Century! The camaraderie and support of the other cyclists will encourage you. Many riders are occasional weekend cyclists. But because it is 50 miles and does require some endurance, doing some training rides prior to the event will add to your confidence and ability. The total elevation gain is 2,921 feet. A large part of the ride is on rural roads with little car traffic. There are rolling hills and glorious picturesque views, like scenes from old western movies. It also includes a rest stop in the charming historic village of Galisteo, where the locals turn out to offer their support at the Galisteo food stop.
Finishers in every category will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal, earn yours!
The Route
From the Santa Fe Brewing Company, mass start style at 8am, riders will head south on HWY 14 for 10 miles before turning left onto Camino Los Abuelos/42. Enjoy the rolling terrain and beautiful views before the Galisteo food stop. Turn left on US Highway 285 and start your climb back into Santa Fe. The last food stop is in the Cafe Fina parking lot at the intersection of HWY 285 and Old Las Vegas HWY, then turning left over the bridge to Rabbit Rd – Dinasour Rd down to HWY 14.
The Finish
From HWY 285, riders will head north on Old Las Vegas Hwy and turn left at the intersection past the bridge and turn right on Rabbit Rd. For the 2027 edition, the finish line will be located at the Santa Fe Brewing Company (35 Fire Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87508).
Parking
Free parking is available at the venue.
To Be Timed, or Not to Be Timed
The Half-Century and the Medio Fondo follow the same course. Half-Century riders are not timed while Medio Fondo riders are timed and their results recorded. If you wish to ride 50 miles timed, please register for the Medio Fondo.
Start Time
The Half-Century riders have the option to launch in a group or by themselves. We strongly recommend joining the group start at 8:00am, riding out behind the timed Medio Fondo riders. This is a great way to kick off your ride with the fun and energy of the other riders in a group! There will be a neutral start for 1/4 mile, until just after the intersection of NM 599 and NM 14. If you choose not to participate in the 8:00am rollout, please be aware that a group launch will be taking place at that time and plan accordingly.
Gear and Equipment
Each rider needs a multiple gear bike with a low gear for hill climbing in good mechanical condition. A bicycle tune up prior to the event is highly recommended.
Helmets meeting CPSC standards are mandatory. In addition, each cyclist must carry a spare tube, a patch kit, pump or CO2 cartridges and basic tools. This ride is heavily supported with six Food/Hydration Stops. However, each rider should carry extra water.
Course Time
The average moderate rider should allow 4-5 hours to complete the course. The biggest challenge for the 50 mile rider will be Lamy Hill. Located on the return part of the loop about 5 miles from Galisteo, the steepest part is about 1/2 mile long. The moderate rider can probably take the climb in 15 minutes or less. Just keep pedaling!! The course and the start/finish venue close at 5:00pm when the route is swept for any remaining riders.
Food Stops There are 3 Food Stops with snacks, energy drinks, water and more:
Turquoise Trail Fire Department – 10 miles
Galisteo – 18 miles
Cafe Fina- 32 miles
Photographs Rider photos will be taken on HWY 285 just before Lamy Hill.
Half Century
October – November / $75
December – January / $85
February – May / $95
Onsite registration May 7th – 9th / $105