How to score a spot in the STP

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You probably know that the Group Health Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic sold out in April. But you may not know that you can still register, if you know how to do it.

Luckily, I'm here to give you the inside scoop. Here are your options, in no particular order:

1) Participate in our eBay auction to benefit the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation. Two registrations are currently open for bidding, with seven more to come. All eBay auction winners will receive a coveted low bib number -- and we're even throwing in free food and beverages at the Finish Line Festival in Portland. Plus, the amount of any winning bid exceeding the usual $100 STP registration fee is a tax-deductible donation to the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation, so you can feel good about spending a few extra bucks.  Bidding on the tenth and final registration will close on Friday, June 10, so place your bid now!

2) Wait and see. If you'd prefer to take your chances, you can wait until June 13 at 10 a.m., when STP registration may or may not reopen to the public  with registrations that have been returned. Last year, those returned registrations sold out in just six minutes, so mark your calendars! (Remember, any rider wishing to take advantage of the Group Health STP refund policy has until Thursday, June 9 at 11:59 p.m.)

3) Volunteer! We save a few STP registrations for dedicated volunteers. If you have time to spare this spring, you can earn a registration by clocking 24 hours (or more!) working at Cascade events or in the office. Members can check their Cascade Courier newsletter, and anyone can contact Diana Larson for details about volunteer opportunities.

If all else fails, you should consider registering for RSVP2 or Ride Around Washington, both of which have spots available. They're great rides with beautiful scenery and fewer people (which means shorter lines at the Honey Buckets!). But don't delay -- if they sell out, you won't get a second chance.