Lookback - 2019 Binge
2019 was the sixth edition of the Binge! Each year, we grow in terms of quality, experience, and impact. We don’t necessarily aim to grow in size---we focus on improving the design, impact and experience of everyone involved from riders to volunteers to sponsors.
One of the things we love about the Binge is that it connects us with our US community, which is where we will eventually call a more permanent home. The event is nicely sized so we can support personal connections with everyone involved from volunteers, Bingers, and pro riders. We also keep seeing the same crew return every year along with a fresh batch of Bingers.
In 2019, we had a handful of pros, but we are starting to think of them more as VIPs or special guests than as pro cyclists because we realize what they do on their bikes is only part of who they are. We try to present them as unique people to Binge participants while also showing them off as badass bike racers.
We also have a strong desire to help develop the younger generation of the sport by exposing them to a community event like the Binge. This allows them to become ambassadors for the sport while connecting them with people they only know from TV, a result sheet, or website. Part of growing as a young aspiring pro in the sport of cycling is the valuable impact you can have with your fans, peers, and followers of the sport and we try to provide an avenue for this at the Binge. Some of our pros from 2019 were Jonny Clarke, Alexis Ryan, Ian Garrison, Ben King, John Murphy, Ty Magner, Eddy Anderson, Lilly Williams, TJ Eisenhart, Michael Garrison, and more.
Highlights from the 2019 Binge
This was the second year the Binge started at Warren Wilson College. Personally, I feel we’ve found an awesome partner with overlapping goals, core values, and beliefs. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains serve as the backdrop to Warren Wilson and the space they invite us to use is a great fit for the vibe of the ride and Binge Bash afterparty. The location is now one of the highlights of the Binge.
Another highpoint for 2019 was the new Gran route that featured some amazing dirt road sections that we added based on feedback and excitement from trying out one segment in 2018. These are some hidden gems that don’t show up on Google streetview and are the roads that I am excited to ride when I’m in Asheville, so they were the perfect fit to spice up the ride and show people some new corners of Blue Ridge beauty.
Jamie was six months pregnant during the 2019 Binge, so she didn’t ride but still headed out on the course to some of the rest stops. It was a personal highlight getting to see her. This is an event that never would have started without Jamie’s passion, drive, and commitment.
Finally, the Binge continues to support the Southern Appalachian Highland Conservancy with all proceeds raised from the ride going to support SAHC’s efforts. 2019 was a banner year for SAHC, and they protected some incredible swaths of land and forest that is right in Binge country. Jamie and I feel it is imperative that we connect the Binge community with a cause that is near and dear to our hearts.
Weather—Was it an Issue?
While we don’t anticipate poor weather at the Binge, we’ve definitely learned that is possible. I feel this is part of what makes Western North Carolina so beautiful. We wouldn’t have the lushness if it weren’t for all the moisture and rainfall.
The days and weeks surrounding the Binge can be anything from 70F and sunny to a freak snowstorm like we had that first year. At this point, we’ve shown that the bike ride is only a part of the Binge and this experience is more about the collection of people and end-of-the-season spirit. We have an awesome indoor, warm place at Warren Wilson that is stocked full of Mamacitas Mexican food and Highland craft beer, so we come ready to handle whatever the weather throws at us!
Looking ahead to 2020 Binge
The 2020 Binge is taking shape and will take place on Halloween! Keep your eyes peeled for some additional opportunities to get involved from our host, Warren Wilson College. We plan to follow a similar course and format as the 2019 Binge. Registration will be open April 1. After two years of hitting our registration cap, it is never too early to jump on the early-bird reg discounts and make sure you’ve got your spot!