Inaugural event in Ohio had over 500 riders. Fun takeoff from NAHS--best part was the fire hook and ladder truck that hung an American flag out over the road. Got isolated between groups only a few miles in, than latched on to two Jeni's team folks to get drug up to the first big group, then ended up hanging with 6-7 of their team/friends the rest of the way. Really nice people. had a great time with them (JD, Amy, Jen, Isaac, Matt, Eric). Got to show my local knowledge of the roads--lots had never done Reynolds Rd. Group rode a good fast pace for me but enjoyed the stops--perfect for me. We also had to stop twice for a missed turn and a flat. We got split up once on a super fast long downhill (heading South after turning off Chatham) and JD, Matt, and I had to work to get back to the others. Then I hit Reynolds Rd hard and was first up, but paid for it later. Coming into the third rest stop in Hartford I was really struggling, but JD and Matt helped me along again. Whit was running things there volunteering, though, so it was great to see her. I headed out again with the group, hoping they could help me along, but they took off at around 22mph, so I was off the back quickly. JD hung back with me and eventually we caught the group when they slowed down for 8-10 miles. They eventually took off again, so JD and I did that last 5 miles or so alone. Absolutely perfect weather (70s, light wind, sunny). Great crowds in the towns, especially Granville. Rest stops were nice. Start/finish atmosphere was great. Veterans were wearing armbands so I enjoyed being able to spot them and say thanks anytime I saw one. All in all a really nice event, though some of the route could have been nicer. Can't wait to do it again next year.