Bend is a different beast. Our series of Gourmet Century events typically stays on the road, though sometimes less-travelled and not always well-paved. The Bend GC ignores that convention and leads participants through some of the best trails the Pacific Northwest has to offer. We try to balance the serenity of time alone in the woods with the camaraderie that group rides thrive on.
The Bend Gourmet Century took place on June 20th and saw 85 riders in attendance. We called Freemont Meadow in Shevlin Park home base with a route that took riders through 35 miles of pristine trails in Bend. Breakfast began with Eggs Benedict prepared by Chef Robert McSpadden from the Chris King Cafe with Chef Chris DiMinno’s home made 2-year-old ham. Riders also had Chris King Cafe granola, fresh fruit, bagels, and cream cheese from Bowery Bagels, a variety of smoked fish as well as yogurt, milk, and orange juice available. Coffee service was sponsored by Stumptown who had a selection of hot coffee and their legendary cold brew on hand.
Starting with the Mrazak Trail, past Tumalo Falls, and to Skyliner Lodge where lunch was served. Prepared by Chef Jeff McCarthy of Bowery Bagels and Kitchencru, the meal consisted of a southern-style menu with pulled pork sandwiches, pasta salad, cole slaw, amazing baked beans (which you could never tell were vegan), and salted chocolate chip cookies.
After the meal, riders headed back through the legendary Phil’s Trail System which led them home to Shevlin Park.
With the ride in the bag, participants were greeted with dinner prepared entirely by Scott and Emily Ketterman of Crown Paella. The menu can be found here, but prepare yourself for an impending trip to Crown Paella if you do.
When the day was done it seemed everyone could sit back and realize it was yet another perfect day on the bike. The weather was ideal, fun was had by all, and no one got hurt.
Packing up at the end of the day, we’d be remiss if we didn’t thank those involved that made this event what it was. Robert McSpadden, Scott and Emily Ketterman, the entire Crown Paella team, Andy and Cassie Kading, Erika Polmar, Claire Benson, Jeff McCarthy and Bowery Bagels, the entire Kerr Family, Brian Malone, Bill Hartrich, Deschutes Brewing, Casa Bruno Wines, Olympic Provisions, The Village Baker in Bend, David Marchi and Crows Feet Commons, Mallory Pilcher and Stumptown, Dan Sharp, and everyone else we may have missed.