07/05/2024
9 Days until the event: The FAQ for 2024 has just been updated!
Pedal & Paddle FAQs:
Q. How long should I expect the 45-mile ride to take?
A. Figure a minimum of four ½ hours. It could take quite a bit longer (depending on your speed and breaks at the pools).
Q. Is there an age restriction?
A. Not specifically. We prefer to keep this to riders capable of doing a road ride. I have seen 14-year-olds who have no problem with the course. We highly discourage trailers and tagalongs due both to safety issues and time.
Q. Is this a race?
A. Most certainly not. Races are a pain because of the need for timers, officials and all the other things associated with sporting events. Not to mention we would need probably require much more police presence. Think of it as more a group ride with differing paces.
Q. How do we get into the pools?
A. Columbia Association will use teams of staff to open each pool if the pool is not officially open yet (as will be the case at most pools). CA staff (guards) are at each pool. Please be sure to thank them. Yes, they are being paid, but still….
Q. I am slow. Will I miss pools?
A. It is possible that CA will have closed a pool if you’re truly far behind (because you’re having too much fun in the pools). In most cases, especially as it gets later in the ride, the pool may be open for regular hours.
Q. I am fast. Will I get ahead of the lifeguards?
A. Very unlikely. CA schedules staff for each pool and keeps track of where the riders are (both at the front and back). This ain’t their first rodeo either.
Q. The pool is already open. Where do I do my lap?
A. Any marked lap lane will do. Be aware of and courteous to other swimmers. At some pools CA may mark lanes specifically for our use.
Q. Are snack / rest stops provided?
A. Technically, each pool can be a rest stop. However, there will be a fully stocked refueling stop at the Dickinson and Thunder Hill pools (about the 17.5- and 35-mile marks). There will be snacks and beverages. In addition, food/drinks will also be provided at the end at Swansfield. This means that there are also 23 restrooms and 23 first aid stations if you need it.
Q. You aren’t a non-profit. How does this qualify for tax deductions?
A. We are an IRS certified non-profit (EIN 46-2122069 if you want to see it). All net proceeds (all funds collected after the Active.com fee and food/shirt costs) go to the Ulman and Michael J. Fox Foundations. We will send you a receipt for tax purposes after the event, but before the end of the year.
Q. What about bike support if I need it?
A. Trek of Columbia (feel free to give them your bike business and thank them for the support the next time you’re in the store). provides a sag wagon with experienced technical assistance. They will be on-site before the beginning of the ride if you need them for minor adjustments or support, such as inflating tires. If it’s like last year, if you require parts for a repair, you will be charged for parts but no labor. They also have the cue sheet and there’s also a contact number written on your cue sheet to contact them directly if you need assistance.
Q. Will there be signs directing me?
A. Not specifically. However, we have marked all the turns on the road with white arrows to indicate the turn and proper direction after the turn. Turns will have at least two sets of arrows before the turn with enough time to be in the proper spot to safely make the turn. The route is unchanged from last year. I know some riders have put the ride into cycling software so maybe we can get that shared.
Q. What should I wear?
A. One of the most common questions. An experienced tri-participant (which I am not) probably already has a tri suit that will work. Men generally wear a men’s jammer or bike shorts with t-shirt and socks (which go after the 1st pool). Just wear what’s comfortable to ride and swim. There definitely isn’t time to change at each pool. And don’t forget the sunscreen. And I find that a towel is just unnecessary weight although you may think differently.
Q. Is the fee tax deductible?
A. Yes. The total fee is tax deductible (regardless of the Active.com fee and any other ride costs). After the ride, you will receive a receipt from Pedal & Paddle for your donation amount. Thanks.
Q. Can I sign up the morning of the ride.?
A. Yes. We accept walk-ups (or ride-ups) that morning. We only accept cash or check, and you will need to sign the liability waiver form.
Q. What’s the best way to stay safe?
A. Ride in a pack if at all possible. The more bikes there are the more visible everyone is. Also…PLEASE OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS and use common sense. This is a road ride with all the attendant hazards of being where cars are. Serious Danger Zone – Going over Rt. 29 on Rt. 108. Cars from multiple directions at speed. Coming back across 108 on Columbia Road is no picnic either but you have the light and are crossing over.
Q. Do I need to get donations to qualify for the Ride?
A. Nope. There are enough of those types of rides already. This started out as a biking for fun exercise by two intrepid bikers. However, if you want to donate more than the cost of the ride, feel free to do so. Also, if you’d like to be a sponsor and get your company name on the cool t-shirt, please give me a call or email (410-419-2241 or [email protected]). I would love to have sponsors to cover all the event costs.
