Meet the MEETS Rides

Guest blogger: James Coliz

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Some MEETS riders take a Kodak break

Are you training for STP, RSVP or a big tour this summer?  Check out Cascade's handy training guide with suggested weekly mileage for every week of the spring.

If you're following the training guide, you'll notice a recommendation of 20-30 miles every Wednesday, while increasing your mileage on the weekend.  What's the best way to get those mid-week miles?  If you live or work on the Eastside, the Mid-week Eastside Evening Training Series (MEETS) may be just the thing!

Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., rides leave from two locations on the Eastside: South Bellevue Park & Ride and Marymoor Park.  The loops are typically 20-25 miles and accommodate every pace from leisurely to strenuous.  Even when it's raining, there are usually a few hardy souls who will ride with you if you're up for it.

Sandi Navarro, one of the organizers, is enthusiastic about rider response to the new series so far. "Riders return week after week eager for more," she said. "Some wish we had rides three evenings a week! The Wednesday night rides make getting through a stressful work-week easier."

This Wednesday, June 5, the Bellevue crew will climb to the top of Lakemont Blvd, then tour Newcastle and Phantom Lake for 20 miles.  The Marymoor crew will ramble about the Plateau, skirting Pine Lake and Beaver Lake before going back down the neighborhoods behind Sahalee for 23 miles.  Either way, you're sure to find great camaraderie with riders at your pace, and the weekend rides will be that much easier!

Looking for more riding opportunities? All Cascade free daily rides are published online. Everyone is welcome, but if you’re new, please read through our information for newcomers and parents.