2017 Gravel Grinders

Lakeville-Milltown-Lakeville  (LML) - great early season tune up ride. Nice stop at bike shop in Faribault with free bacon. Great after ride food at Harry's Cafe. (completed in 2017)

Dickie Scramble - hard race, harder course. Lots of ups and downs packed into 85ish mile course. Huge climb out of Whitewater state park makes it memorable as well as the ATV/rocky/MTB trail. Great after ride food available at JJ Tailgaters bar. (completed in 2017, half in 2016 due to mech.)

Almanzo 100 - The grandaddy of all MN Gravel grinders. If you have not done it, you need to. Multiple stops, some support. Key route feature is the water crossing - you won't forget it. Weather will kill your dreams of finishing if it's nasty. Has a couple bigger brothers in Royal and Alexander for those who are beyond category. I may try the Royal if the weather is perfect this year. (completed in 2015 & 2017, skipped 2016) Usually late May.

Fiddlin' Fifty - This event is unique and has a fun family feel to it. It's a great way to introduce someone to gravel. Race it if you want but the focus is on camraderie with a pot-luck style meal afterwards. Again, weather can affect your ride but it's an easy route and low key. Key route feature is the Mud Hole road that is typcially covered in 6 in. of water. Usually Late August

Potential ride list:

Hungry Bear 100  - Cable, WI
Gents Race 8.0 - Slater, IA (b/w Des Moines and Ames)
SWIG Tour - Villisca, IA (SW Iowa)
LifeTime Fitness Gravel Fondo - Twin Cities MN
Dirty Lemming - Watertown, MN