21 Drafters came out to play with the Beast. This route likely tapped the most elevation gain of the season. Sweeps developed a “special relationship” with the Beast of Barlow. When asked how she did on the beastly climb, her positive response, “Well, I didn’t tip over.” That’s an award winning attitude, and one not shared by several drafters. You know who you are. Keez. “But, Mom, why would we climb Braun when we could just take KP back to Crossroads?” Because, my love, “When in doubt, CLIMB!”

Crossroads has vexed Nemo and Sherlock. Last month, it was a forgotten helmet that delayed the mother-daughter. This month, it was a forgotten car. In for repairs, the two realized too late that they needed to bike to the start. This action photo gives a sense of the speed Nemo is generating. She’s the Flo-Jo of cycling.


Their faux pas was appreciated by Ruby, who came in hot and was able to connect with the tardy duo. Jumping to the end, the finish photos say it all.


Ok, back to what happened in the middle for the rest of the Drafters. Pretty simple. Vilks, despite 124 miles and 11k feet of climbing on Saturday led the way. Hawkeye and Gopher, the representatives from Iowa, baited him with a few break away maneuvers, but Vilks wasn’t taking the bait.


It was good to have Car Wash back in the line up after a shoveling incident messed with his low back. Never let gardening chores get in the way of cycling! This route was not exactly a gentle return to the Draft, but he hung in there. Fully charged, Duracell made his debut with the lead group.

A huge thanks to Abby and her crew at Creekside Scoop for hosting us each month. The pizzas were hot, the ice cream was cold and the beer au jus was fabulous.



The Michelin star was only in part awarded for the fine au jus. The pizza is also worthy. Vilks, having stole a slice of pepperoni from Coach Arms last time, was prepared to share his pie. Alas, the Coach was celebrating in Canada with her family. HBD, COACH ARMS!

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS:
Tour de Dane Standings:
Pretty in pink, Speedy is out front. Not only did she complete Stage 7 Mountain Momma and Stage 2 LBS Love in the same day, she exceeded expectations by delivering treats to Trek West, which was beyond the tour route.


Nobody has entered the mountain stage, but our speedster in green is Shaq after hammering Stage 3 Cross Plains Time Trial. She also picks up some pink points by enjoying some coffee at Crossroads Coffeehouse.

RACING OUTSIDE OF THE TOUR
Congratulations to the Drafter Finishers at Dairyland Dare. Vilks dared go under 7 hours for 124 miles and nearly 11,000 feet of climb. Cujo was right on his wheel for the first 75 miles and broke the 8 hour barrier. Spigot and Tinker has a strong 100 mile finish as well!



In other endurance events, Shaq conquered the Best Dam Bike Tour, riding 150 miles over the weekend.

Switching from pavement to water, CONGRATULATIONS to Footer on two silver medals at Barefoot Nationals in Florida!! One medal for each foot. And CONGRATS to The Legend on being National Champion!




An Ironman Simulation was happening down at Law Park. Midas and MultiSport were there to support Tree of Rown on her next Iron challenge. Go get em!

On tap for Monday Aug 11: one route to Indian Lake 31 miles, with an option to take the bike path home 29 miles. Highway 19 has been repaved, with a VERY wide shoulder and rumble strip for protection.
One departure time of 4:45PM. The bike path home isn’t exactly a short pour. Given that Missouri Tavern is on the bike path, you may find an extra pour on that route.
RidewithGPS Link Drafters| Indian Lake
RidewithGPS Link Drafters | Indian Lake Bike Path Home
Draft responsibly,
BricKO