“Spring has gobsmacked us already in Oklahoma. Saturday was a gorgeous winter day with bright sunshine and, of course, a steady south wind. Temps climbed into the mid-70s. What a great day to be on a bike!

For my entry into the challenge, I joined up with a crew of 6 gravel riding regulars at nearby Heyburn Lake for a 66 mile cruise. For all of us it was our final weekend ride before the upcoming LandRun 100.

Saturday’s route was challenging — 66 miles of rough gravel coupled with 4,500’ of climbing. None of us were acclimated for such warm temps this time of year.

I decided to handicap myself by riding my new rig, a MTB build for a GDMBR tour this summer. I really felt the added 10 pounds over regular gravel/CX bike. The newness, the different gearing, and the weight slowed me considerably. I got a great workout trying to keep pace with the other fellows.”- Phil B.