Saturday, May 21, 2011

Southern MN Dirt - ALMONZO 100

my first Century Race

This is the only real photo I took of my bike after 100 miles of grueling,cold-n-wet, gravel/mud riding.  I made it in the 12 hour cut-off: 11.01 hours to be exact. We had a few minor break downs like my crank flopping off at mile 50. It was back on after a quick water-bottle rinsing. My Raleigh Grand Prix pulled through. Just not sure I will ever get all the dirt off it!

I enjoyed watching the crushed limestone crusting up on my legs; it actually kept me warm.  I believe 388 riders started and only 150 finished within the 12 hours. At the check-in at mile 65, we heard of others shivering and figured the cold, wet weather was stopping people from finishing.  I rode with 4 others on tandems: Matt & Renee and John & Jen.   Still feeling some tingles in the tendons and not sure if this is a ride I would do again (in the rain that is).

Wanted to thank everyone that had a part in putting on this event especially the event coordinator - Chris Skogan. http://almanzo100.blogspot.com/