Rider Withdrawls

We have been hard at work finalizing the route for the Dirty Benjamin and more posts will follow containing necessary information. We have been receiving a few cancelations lately and this has opened up spaces for those on the waitlist. Not only do we appreciate it, but those who got a spot at the start are also stoked. Just a reminder, please let us know if you are signed up and can't make the start. You can email us at westsidedirtybenjamin@gmail.com.

Recon Power

Took a day and we logged 80 miles doing some recon on the Dirty Benjamin course. While the weather cooperated, the gravel was all over the place. About 20% was all good, perfect. About 20% was straight up peanut butter. The other 60%, was soft and a work out. Oof. We built some character out there.

Outside of the energy leeching conditions, the route is real nice.

That is the nicest stretch of the ride...some blue gravel. Aw, yeah.

We also reconed a new addition to the route. In the distance behind this water pump



is a trail into the woods. A nifty off road detour that will be added to the route. Very nize!

So what's next you ask. We're waiting to see what is going on with the flooding around Carver for our other off road section. Will it be like Gloria Gaynor and survive? You can be sure that we will be watching that. As for up-and-coming good times, we are preparing to have some fun at the Almanzo 100 with hundreds of good people, riding the Chequamegon 100 and prepping the course for your pleasure.

Keep an eye out for updates as the time until the Dirty Benjamin starts wanes. Otherwise, get out there, ride and enjoy the time between rains.



Recon + Water, and more water

Got out on the course this week to check all the trail sections for flooding and there are 2 still under about 3 feet water. One being the trail behind downtown Carver. Hopefully things will dry out closer to race day, if not the start will have a little more pavement.

We did find 3 new trail sections for this years course and one will definitely have a couple of dismounts since we can't count on the weather to knock over a giant tree the night before the race again.

Also found close to the course is a park that has a drinking water well pump. Not 100% it will be working but it looks promising. We'll probably route the course through that park, if not it's will only take you about 1/4 mile off course. This falls near the 70 mile point or at the end of the Luce Line section.

....more course updates & details in the coming weeks!

Registration Has Ended

We have reached 200 riders so registration is closed. Postcards will be grandfathered in if they have a postmark date of March 10 or earlier. Postcards with a later postmark will be put on a waiting list. Thanks to all who have sent in their postcard. I'm stoked to see you on June 11. If something comes up and you are unable to make it, please email us and let us know so we can get your spot filled.

We are excited about the course this year and you know we will be out on it this weekend. Fo' Sho'!!

The Breakdown So Far...

The list is waxing and is almost there. One month into it and we have 174 folks signed up to have a blast in June taking in the gravel goodness of Carver County. Just so you know, Duluth will be representing it so I gotta say that it is on. You say you want to see some stats:

18 50+ Masters
14 Women
20 Singlespeeds
4 Tandems
and A grip of Geared Gravel Junkies

I don't know bout you but me thinks that it's about time to start logging some miles out there in the wind. Spring is a few weeks away and there are gravel centuries to log so rubber side down and enjoy it above all.

Kings!!

Outstanding news!! Kings has agreed to provide some vittles for registered riders. They really knocked it outta the park last year with the pulled pork sandwiches so I can't wait to see what's in store for this year. From what I do know though, there will mostly likely be a vegetarian option. FTW!

Registered Riders

As the Stupor Bowl excitement wanes, thoughts are filled with visions of spring gravel. More energy will now be spent on the 2011 rendition of the Westside Dirty Benjamin. The roster of registered riders is now up and accessable via the link on the header row or hit this link to the roster.