“Supporting a cycling team for the 3M Challenge was an easy decision. The C&O Canal and the GAP combine for a continuous trail of over 330 miles creating fun and awareness for both trails. Bikepacking and gravel cycling are fast-growing outdoor activities, and these trails provide a safe venue.” stated Darius Mark, an Association director.
The team, led by Association member Denny Sloppy of Woodland, PA includes experienced Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal cyclists, who have ridden the entire length of these trails multiple times. Team members include Emil Moskovich from Bloomsburg, PA, Kathy Merchant from Berkley Springs, WV, Missy & Patrick Pope from Martinsburg, WV, and Melody Miles from Greencastle, PA. Team members agreed to participate in the challenge and to support the C&O Canal Association and Mountain Maryland Trails organization. Team member Emil Moskovich stated, “I have seen the steam engine before and hope that it is still slow.”
A timed challenge between cyclists and the train, the 3M Challenge will follow a 15.3-mile stretch of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) alongside the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad from Cumberland to Frostburg. Riders will depart from the Western Maryland Railway Station every 10 minutes, starting at 8:00 AM. The train will depart from the station at 11:30 AM with teams challenged to have a better climb time than the train. Teams and individuals who beat the train’s time will receive a prize, and all participants will receive a souvenir gift. An exciting event from start to finish, teams race to beat the steam train. For more information about the event, visit https://www.mountainmdtrails.org/3m-challenge
C&O Canal Association Team Members, from left to right Denny Sloppy, Kathy Merchant, Missy Pope, Patrick Pope (Missing – Emil Moskovich, Melody Miles) (John Betting photo)