Upcoming
May, 2025
The Muleskinner Gravel Classic is a challenging cycling race held in Lone Jack, Missouri, known for its scenic yet demanding gravel roads and rolling hills. This event attracts cyclists of all levels who come to test their endurance and skill on a variety of routes, offering both competitive and recreational opportunities in a picturesque rural setting.
September, 2025
The Katy Trail State Park in Missouri is the nation’s longest rail-trail, spanning nearly 300 miles along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. Established in 1990 after the railroad ceased operations, it winds through scenic landscapes like the Missouri River valley and historic towns, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Its crushed limestone surface makes it a favorite for cyclists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore Missouri’s rich heritage and diverse terrain.
May, 2026
The Unbound Gravel 200, held annually in Emporia, Kansas, is the premier gravel cycling race in the U.S., challenging riders with 200 miles of rugged Flint Hills terrain. Founded in 2006 (originally as the Dirty Kanza), it has become a hallmark of gravel racing, attracting cyclists worldwide for its demanding course, unpredictable conditions, and community-driven spirit.
Race Recaps
March 29, 2025
Mine Creek Gravel Battle, Mound City, KS
The race started at 9:30 with a neutral roll out for the first couple miles. The moto pulled off and we were quickly at the first hill, which ended up being the first breaking point. I worked into the main front group of about 12 riders. This group held for the next 8ish miles. During this time, the winner went up the road by himself and we never saw him again.
Around mile 12, 2 riders pushed for a break (Dan and Kelly) and I hopped on. Dan, Kelly, and I worked together for the next 15ish miles taking turns pulling to build our gap from the main group of about 10 riders.
We kept an eye on the chasers and noticed them getting strung out occasionally as some would take flyers to try to catch us. But we were able to keep and build our lead.
Around mile 30 Dan and I moved up on an ascent while Kelly dropped back. Dan and I worked together to keep the pace up.
At mile 35 I could feel myself redlining. I felt like I had pushed too hard too early in the race, but I was in a podium position, so all I could do was keep pushing.
Around this time Dan and I could catch glimpses of a chase duo of Kelly and another rider working together. Dan and I decided to keep a solid pace without killing ourselves, and focus on maintaining the gap.
We worked together for the next 10-12 miles, then on a fast and loose descent around mile 45 Dan opened a gap from me and I couldn’t get back on his wheel. My legs were really starting to scream and I couldn’t keep his pace.
This meant I’d have to ride the last 20 miles alone, with a group of at least 2 chasing not far behind. I did my best to stay aero, push when I could, and let the legs rest when I could.
I kept an eye on the pursuit and saw them creeping closer every time I looked over my shoulder. They came very close around mile 55. I took a right turn and they were only 40 yards behind.
With less than 10 miles to go, I refocused and used what energy I had left in my legs to pick up my pace. I could see I was gaining a bit on Dan ahead, but my focus was keeping the gap behind me. I could see Kelly had pulled away from the other rider and was chasing solo now.
We finally turned to get a tailwind and the miles really started ticking off.
I made it to town without getting caught, and pushed hard through the finish to take the 3rd place spot on the podium. Kelly finished a close 10-15 seconds behind.
After the race I was absolutely beat. They did the awards ceremony pretty quickly after I finished, so I didn’t have a chance to change or even take my helmet off. The prizes were all Civil War themed. The winner got a general’s cowboy-style hat, Dan in second got a soldier’s hat, and I was given a real brass bugle! I had to play it immediately of course, and luckily I did play a note and not just a flatulent sound. I kinda think 3rd place was the spot to be!
I drank some water and was feeling pretty ill. I tried to eat and drink, but would throw up anything I put in my stomach. This continued on the ride home, and I had to have Tyler pull over for me several times.
Going into the race I was completely unconcerned about the hills. But boy was I wrong. There were some monsters on this course. The wind was 12-15mph sustained with gusts over 20mph. There were times the crosswind was formidable, and turning into the headwind felt like pedaling through a wall. Several stretches of the course had been recently graveled, which sound like a good thing, but really isn’t for gravel cyclists. The new gravel was very loose, and the size of the rocks were usually larger, making it harder to maintain speed, and pick the right line.
Overall I’m proud of my race and result. I know I didn’t do a great job pacing myself the first half, and fell apart a bit in the second half. But I was able to put myself back together enough to achieve a podium finish. The old “everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth” saying rings true in bike racing. Had I sat up and joined back with a larger group instead of attacking with Dan and Kelly, I would have probably finished between 5th and 10th. If I wanted to compete, I had to play the cards I was dealt, and today it paid off.
