2013 Sub-9 Gravel Grovel

[Bentcrank]

Any elimination of 2 way traffic especially in the narrowest part of the race course is a good thing.

That is the goal... called the forest, they haven't even started processing my event permit yet. GOOD TIMES!  Hopefully my call will push things along so we will get an answer in the next few days.

Just a heads up - if we DO go with this new route everyone will need to purchase a one-day HNF pass ($5 - not included in registration fee).  Since I added the chip timing and had not initially planned to use the national forest the one-day passes were not included in my budget for this year.

Not that I know anything, but if I was in the know, I would prefer option 2 or 3. 

but, I am down for anything as long as there is beer to be found.

[tjuillerat]

Just a reminder to those out pre-riding over the next two weeks... Firearm season starts tomorrow (Nov 16 - Dec 1) and the Hoosier National is a popular hunting location. Watch for more vehicles to be on the roads (hopefully to pack in the fresh gravel) and be sure to wear your bright colors. Riders are more than welcome to park at the Midwest Horseman's Camp between now and the event.

[ybbond]

I'm wearing my bright Orange rain jacket on Sunday ----
 
This route would be a killer ----- http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3672107  -- shows the MTBers some love and hate at the same time......  mt Baldy climb at mm 42 is by far the biggest gravel climb in the state ---- and it's fresh gravel ---- followed by Buffalo (we call it 'the bitch') from the steep side..... would  really break things up a bit....   
 
 
Scott

[Fett]

I'm wearing my bright Orange rain jacket on Sunday ----
 
This route would be a killer ----- http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3672107  -- shows the MTBers some love and hate at the same time......  mt Baldy climb at mm 42 is by far the biggest gravel climb in the state ---- and it's fresh gravel ---- followed by Buffalo (we call it 'the bitch') from the steep side..... would  really break things up a bit....   
 
 
Scott

I climbed those hills on some recon rides for the Death March. I agree, much pain.  Have fun out there on Sunday. 90% chance of rain with strong storms and 25mph winds.

[tjuillerat]

Just two weeks left!  Don't forget you must register by THIS WEDNESDAY (Nov 20) in order to guarantee receiving your FREE event t-shirt.  Since we have to guess the final total, those who sign up after the 20th will receive a t-shirt on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last. 


www.GravelGrovel.com



We've also added some fantastic new sponsors to this year's event.  Don't miss out!

[tjuillerat]

We appreciate everyone's patience as we wait on the final word from the Hoosier National Forest regarding a course change. So far things are looking good and we will hopefully have an answer today. Here's a little teaser in the mean time... This new route goes from 1900 feet of elevation change to over 2300. We also go from only two Category-5 climbs to SEVEN! Happy scouting everyone!

[Paul_Arlinghaus]

I think that Tania meant to say that the course may have 7 category 5 downhills! 

[tjuillerat]

I think that Tania meant to say that the course may have 7 category 5 downhills!

all in how you look at it - right Paul!

[edf]

I like a good mystery. Looks to me like we're attacking Combs Rd much earlier this year....like mile 14 or so. Of course my recognition of the elevation profile could be off too.

[Fett]

It looks like the 12/27 cassette and Dura Ace derailleur come off and an 11/32 cassette and XT rear derailleur go on the cross bike.
I will have to think about that route. I think we can be reasonably certain the last Cat 5 is Polk Patch Road

[tjuillerat]

ahhhhhh.... love all the speculation!

[Doe]

Que sera, sera!

[ybbond]

I'm not going to Ruin Tania's Surprise ---
But I can totally name that profile! 
Hell Yeah!
Scott
 

[tjuillerat]

I'm not going to Ruin Tania's Surprise ---
But I can totally name that profile! 
Hell Yeah!
Scott

not sure even you know this entire route Scott, but I'll bet you're pretty darn close...  ;-)

[Fett]

I laid the profile of Scott's ride he posted earlier with Tania's. Pretty close, so I have most of them figured out.