PMC Tips #1: Registration and Logistics

[ornoth_cycling]

This is the first in a series of postings I have planned, wherein I will share hints, tips, pointers, and advice for other Pan-Mass Challenge charity riders. These are the things I've learned during more than a decade of participating in the PMC.

I will be posting one group of hints each week until I've posted all ten sections. And the full list will be permanently available online at http://www.ornoth.com/bicycling/hints.php

Whether you're a first-timer or a longtime veteran, may you find these ideas useful, and I hope you have a wonderful PMC experience!

This week's topic is something you should already be on top of: Registration and Logistics.

• If you want to ride the traditional route from Sturbridge to Provincetown, sign up as soon as registration opens in January. It sells out very quickly.
• During registration, if you're in doubt about which to order, opt for the official cycling jersey rather than the tee shirt. You can always buy a tee shirt later.
• If you want to get decent rest Saturday night, plan to stay in a hotel off the MMA campus. Second choice are on-site tents. The dorms aren't very restful.
• If you do want to stay in a hotel in Sturbridge, Bourne, or Provincetown, book your rooms a year in advance. Yes, really.
• Expect nearly all the hotels on Cape Cod to have a two-night minimum.
• Try to convince your friends to ride, too. It really is a much better experience when shared.
• The usual PMC Twitter hashtag is #PMCyyyy where 'yyyy' is the current year (e.g. #PMC2011). It's interesting to monitor it to hear what other riders are up to.

Next week: Equipment!