Tour de Rhody 2023

This year, I decided to skip the D2R2 in favor of Rhode Island's homegrown fifth annual Tour de Rhody. While I probably could've done both, since D2R2 is in August and the Tour de Rhody is in September, the D2R2 has gotten quite expensive, especially for riders who sign up late like me. I was also interested in supporting the cause behind the Tour de Rhody, clinical cancer research. I signed up to ride the 100k gravel route, however, there are several different distances and terrains to choose from.

Some people had warned me ahead of time that the route was rather technical compared to other gravel rides in the area. For the most part, I would say that this held true, especially in the areas around the Scituate Reservoir where recent rains had really washed out a number of trails, especially on the hills. However, I also found this to be the most enjoyable part of the ride. The extra miles out in Western Rhode Island were what most people envision when they think of a gravel ride. However, being the intrepid explorer that I am, I'm always looking for rides that are off the beaten path. So, on my trusty Diamondback Haanjo 4 EXP (RIP Cannondale Slate) I headed for the hills of Rhode Island.

Salisbury Farm in Johnston Rhode Island is where the ride started. Very beautiful.

And we're off! Fresh "gravel" heading into Scituate Reservoir.

This causeway was probably one of my favorite sections.

Some loose washed out jeep roads around the reservoir.

This hill was insane. People kept falling over. Except for me :)

Completely worth the view. Although, it could use a bag pipe like D2R2 used to.

A traditional gravel road after the first reservoir pass.

Some sketchy downhill sections. The dropper post came in handy!

Roads

Some beautiful farms and horses in the area.

My new loyal steed. Not as majestic as the horses, but she'll do.

Did I mention we got caught in a rainstorm?

She cheered us on the best she could.

In the end, this ride was every bit as challenging as D2R2. I would highly recommend riding the Tour de Rhody. The $35 entrance fee was very doable  and they give you a T-Shirt and post-ride lunch. All they ask is that you raise $300-$500 for the Brown University cancer research group hosting the ride. It felt good giving to a cause that could possibly change the course of cancer treatment. Despite getting soaked and despite the difficult terrain with over 4,000 feet of climbing, I will definitely put this ride on my calendar again for next year.