Centre County amateur radio operators from both the Nittany Amateur Radio Club and Philipsburg Amateur Radio Association participated in providing communications for the Nittany Cycling Classic bicycle race held on the 25th of March, 2017 in the Black Moshannon State Park/Forest. There were two events; time trials starting at 07:00 and the actual race starting at 10:00. This event is sponsored by the Penn State Cycling Club and is sanctioned by the Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference (ECCC). The race covers 20 miles on Beaver Road and Rattlesnake Pike in multiple loops.

Traffic control, coordination, and safety are provided by Flagger Force, Philipsburg Fire Police, Moshannon Valley EMS, and the Park Rangers. The following amateur radio operators participated; John, N3SPW; Rich, K3QKR; Chuck, N3CRM; Criag, K3OOL; John, N3HQD; Greg, K3GEM; Ken, KB1BH; Richard, KC3FEZ; Jim, KB3TBX; Gordon, KC0QJX, and Ryan, KB3VDG. Carmine, K3CWP did most of the preparation prior to race day but had to leave town on family matters that weekend. John, N3SPW graciously agreed to take over for the day. Thank you John!

Perhaps the best summary of the race comes from the Penn State Cycling Club coordinator; “Thank you so much for volunteering for this event. It was a huge success; there were no delays, medical response was rapid when necessary, and there were no serious injuries to the almost 250 riders who participated, and it’s all thanks to the help of your organization. All the operators were professional and well-trained, and it was a pleasure to work with them. Best, Will Gowen.”