The third annual Tour de Dane Femmes finished up Saturday, August 31. After 5 grueling weeks of hauling beer around the Isthmus and climbing to the top of Blue Mounds State Park twice, it came down to the wire. The battle for points continued until dusk on the 31st day of the tour!

Here are some highlights of the stages. 13 Femmes participated. 6 finished all of the stages!

PRE-STAGE: Commuter Salute. Go green by running (biking) errands or commuting to work via bike.

STAGE 1: MONONA LAKE LOOP. Drop off beer at your local bike shops to show your support. This was a harder stage than the mileage would suggest. Carrying 6-packs to Cronometro, Machinery Row and Slow Roll UNOPENED is no small feat.

STAGE 2: TAVERN TRIBUTE. Pay it forward at Ranch Saloon and enjoy a draft at Missouri Tavern to support local taverns who support cyclists. This stage was an unexpected source of joy. Many Drafters did this individually. We also did it as a Monday night ride. A round was bought for the patrons at Ranch Saloon in Dane, only to have one of the recipients buy a round back, “because that’s how we do it hear.” All the Drafters ended up at Missouri Tavern for an all skate. It was all wonderful.

It takes more courage to pay it forward when you are all by yourself…

STAGE 3: CROSS PLAINS TIME TRIAL. This was for the green jersey, and ice cream or coffee at Creekside Scoop or Crossroads Coffeehouse. The Drafters enjoyed their patio throughout the summer, and thrilled to restore our caloric debt as their fine establishment. And the winner of the coveted green jersey…. HAMMER TIME.

STAGE 4: HORRIBLY HILLY This was a grueling 46 mile stage that covered some of the Horribly Hilly Hundreds terrain. Participants supported the Friends of Blue Mounds by committing to ride or volunteer at HHH in 2025. Perhaps the highlight of this stage was watching the video Pit Stop posted of her son climbing the hill while she cheered him on, and seeing her Strava segment congratulate her on the biggest climb yet.

STAGE 5: MILITARY RIDGE GRAVEL GRINDER. An effort to bring dirty fun to the Draft, and to support Riley Tavern and Rails to Trails, this stage was enjoyed by many.

STAGE 6: VIVA LA CYCLING CLUBS. Here’s to those who keep Madison one of the most welcoming for cyclists, planning routes and building community. The cross-pollination between clubs has been a beautiful thing. As is seeing the original Voler Drafter Jersey circa 2013.

The yellow jersey came down to 2 bonus points awarded for scrounging up this relic (the jersey, not Pit Stop and Shaq). Congrats to our two yellow jersey winners! Out of 105 possible points, each of these Femmes earned 100.

STAGE 7: CAPITAL OFF ROAD PATHFINDERS. Dirty Drafters in the making. Sandlot and Pit Stop got on mountain bikes for the first time. Sandlot ended up buying one and Pit Stop donated generously to CORP. Speedy had family in town and got them out on the trails at Blackhawk.

STAGE 8: ALP d’ BLUE. The battle for the polka dot jersey came down to it on Saturday Aug 31. Cujo and Keez went head to head. Keez had the faster time, but Cujo goes home in the polka dot. The judges agreed that climbing Blue Mounds twice was prerequisite fo the jersey. The rule book for 2025 has already been amended. Congrats to all the Drafters who dared to climb Blue Mounds not once, but twice ( Cujo, BrickO and Shaq).

EXIT STAGE: VOLUNTEER OR PARTICIPATE IN AN EVENT

So many completed this stage! A shout out to Keez for winning the State Road Race in New Glarus, Hammer Time for winning the Badfish TT and riding RAW plus some (240 miles), Shaq for finishing Bike MS Best Dam Bike Tour and RAW back to back, Nemo and Pit Stop for Roll & Stroll, Sandlot for Ride the Drive.

For those still looking for an event…. please consider singing up for the the Badger Challenge on Sept 22. Pit Stop has a team to support her OR manager, Todd, who was recently diagnosed with sarcroma Their team is Hot Toddies at  badgerchallenge.org 

A sincere thanks to all who participated in any or all of the stages. Supporting local bike shops, taverns, coffee shops and ice creams shops who support cyclists was one of the goals. The other is to remember the fun in pedaling, to engage others in the sport, and in that small way, build stronger women cyclists for the future Tour de France Femmes.

Awards will be given at one of the next two Monday night drafts… depending on arrival of the jerseys and other prizes.

Thanks again to all who dared to step out of their comfort zone and buy a drink for a stranger, pedal hard on the time trial, climb Blue Mounds (twice), try mountain biking, and building community by wearing the colors. Go Green!

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Mercury was red lining and Garmin alerts blaring, but 18 Drafters were up for the dehydration challenge, including one newbie. 19 if you count Z Wrecks drafting responsibly 4 weeks post-op.

It didn’t take long for our newbie to acquire her Drafter handle. While admiring her beautiful Trek Emonda with a paint color called Unicorn Blood, it became clear that this strong rider is indeed a Unicorn. Dainty and soft spoken, she has magic under the horn. The young bucks and Unicorn had fun in front.

The only thing hotter than the sun is the smile by this quartet.

Remember when you were a kid and played in the sprinkler? This is sort of the adult post-draft in ungodly heat and humidity version of that. Stay cool, Pepe.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS:

The Endofondo, an annual event held in New Glarus, was fun had by Hammer, The Colonel, Unicorn Blood, Vilks and BrickO. Definitely a young person’s event, BrickO was the only ARP card holding member. Vilks’ card is in the mail. A huge shout out to the organizers of this event, meant to bridge the gap between Cat 1 and non-category cyclists to enjoy time together in the saddle. Not in the same saddle, obviously. That’s a different kind of fondo.

Tour de Dane Week 4 Standings: It was a huge comeback for Cujo on the Tour! She conquered mountains and beer delivery to take yellow. She and Pit Stop showed excellent sportsmanship, trading jerseys as they completed Stage 5: Gravel Grinder, congratulating one another with pizza and beer at Riley Tavern.

Pit Stop found a vintage Voler Drafter jersey on Monday to take the yellow jersey back at the start of week 5! She also painted her finger and toe nails green to show team spirit. Surely there are bonus points for that?

Shaq is also on track to complete the Tour de France, climbing Alp d’ Blue and delivering beer (two very important skills to be a competent Drafter).

Thing 1 is right on Target, completing the pre-stage, running errands while Aug Dog is home busy smiling. Disclaimer: the photos below are not occurring at the same time.

Hammer Time has been in green for 4 weeks straight, and the polka dot is currently worn by Cujo. Perhaps the most surprising twist in the Tour has been the outcome of Stage 7: Capital Off Road Pathfinders. After completing the mountain stage on her gravel bike, Sandlot declared it new bike day!

With 5 days left in the tour, it will be exciting to see who else comes forward to swap jerseys.

BAREFOOT NATIONALS: We have a winner! Congrats to Footer on a silver sweep for Tricks (more details, please), Slalom and Overall.

NO RIDE LABOR DAY. The next Draft will be Monday, September 9th. As the days grow shorter, so will the routes. Hopefully, we can draft through September and possibly into early October. There is a full strength 31 mile route and a very short short pour (including bike path) 21 mile route. Departure times 4:45 and 5PM from Middleton Hills. SUGGESTION: short pour might consider leaving at 5PM since this route is only 21 miles. Those full strength riders wanting more time to complete the course depart at 4:45PM. That will bring most riders home around the same time. Discuss amongst yourselves.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Latham Loop

RidewithGPS Drafters | Northbound Shortpour

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

It is quite a thing to have 18 Drafters gather on a gorgeous Monday night in August and wonder, “where is everyone?”. Only 11 years ago, 13 Drafters were a full house. The abundance of quad crushing weekend festivities left many with their feet up. So let’s start with a recap of the weekend highlights, shall we?

Week 3 Tour de Dane Femmes Update

Pit Stop is back in yellow, just a few points ahead of Sandlot, after conquering her second greatest amount of elevation ever on Stage 8 Alp d’Blue. And that was before hiking up the Observation Tower twice, after forgetting her water bottle up at the top. Sandlot and Thing 1 gave it there all on the TT, but Hammer Time is still in the green jersey. The polka dot jersey is still up for grabs! Rumor has it that Cujo is firing up the quads this week.

Ride Across Wisconsin: Congratulations to all of those who did RAW : Knievel, Shaq, Spigot, Hammer and the Colonel. A special shout out to Hammer and Colonel for completing the 240 mile single day option that wasn’t listed as an official option. Sometimes the best things aren’t on the menu!

Race The Lake: Congrats to Blurple, who zipped around Lake Winnebago for his 3rd fastest 100k ever, according to Strava, AI that doesn’t lie.

Steamboat Gravel: somebody got dirty. Congrats, JRAD!

Core4 Gravel in Iowa City: Congrats, Nemo. Hope you heal quickly from your crash. At least you didn’t ruin a Drafter jersey….

The Super Blue Moon happened. Which took second in spectacularness to Bomber and Belle’s wedding. But first, the Pedaling Prelude.

Congratulations to this inspiring couple. The upside to having them move to Spooner is that we will have plenty of opportunities to visit them for the Chequamegon Fat Tire, Birkie Ski and Fat Tire, and all other great north adventures. Book your room now!

So that’s why so “few” showed up for the Draft! Who DID show up was Pres. Must be an election year.

Dan-yelly showed up (but not for the start) and is the first competitor to earn 2 bonus points on Stage 6 of Tour de Dane, sporting a vintage Voler Drafter jersey, circa 2013. A gun show, no less.

Martinsville was a new route. Speedy, armed with her new Garmin Edge Solar 840 led out the B Team…. in the wrong direction. Nothing a little U-turn couldn’t fix.

The A team was ready to roll promptly at 5PM. But dutifully waited as Keez when back home to get her “cleats” (?). She rolled in at 5:04PM, and negotiations began. The group agreed to delay as she aired up her tires so long as she agreed to pull. At least until Slim joined the Draft as his station on Airport Rd.

Keez, Slim and Slimmer set the pace up Church, with the rest of the group praying for redemption.

Skipper thought about jumping on the pony express to catch the group. They were in need of a rider, and Skipper was ready to trade his chamois for breeches.

Octane dropped back to take care of some business. His butt was busy dialing randomly… 15 texts and 21 phone calls.

It is possible that Octane dialed Duracell and the Jets and booked an evening show.

Say, Dan-yelly and Speedy, have you seen them yet
Oh, but they’re so spaced out,
Duracell and the Jets
Oh, but they’re weird and they’re wonderful
Oh, Duracell, he’s really keen
He’s got electric boots, a mohair suit
You know I read it in a magazine, oh, yeah
Duracell and the Jets

Octane’s brownies are guaranteed gluten free. Gee Whiz, wouldn’t it be great if everything was void of ingredients as advertised?

The route for Monday, Aug 26 will be the backdoor entrance to Riley Tavern. Full strength 30 miles with a short pour option of 25ish miles, departure times from Middleton Hills 4:45 and 5PM. **For those competing in the Funtathalon in Sept, this route is the second road segment, so you can get a sneak preview.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Backdoor Riley

RidewithGPS Drafters | Backdoor Riley Short Pour

THERE WILL NOT BE A DRAFT THE FOLLOWING MONDAY . ENJOY YOUR LABOR DAY WEEKEND.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The second largest troop of the summer! 27 Drafters enlisted in the Tavern Tribute. Never in the history of the draft have all riders finished together. For those who grew up in the 70-80s, it was the cycling equivalent to “all skate”.

A field of green rolled out for the short pour, with one new flower blossoming in the group: welcome Newbie LaFleur. Thing 1 rejoined the group for the first time since becoming a MOTHER! Her little thing flashed his first smile just before Mom left for the Draft. It’s the little things that bring us so much joy.

The A team had one Drafter out of uniform. Slim was sporting a cuff off t-shirt, which was permitted because 1) it is official apparel from a famous cycling event, and 2) he’s the strongest cyclist and can do as he pleases.

It was a short 10 miles to pay the first tavern tribute. During that time, Coach Arms fell out of line to change a flat (compliments of the absolute shi*t conditions on Pheasant Branch Rd). She joins a very long FLAT TIRE CLUB roster, but is the first of 2024. Twinkle Toes has suffered over 20 flat tires this season, but has dutifully reserved them all for rides other than the Draft.

The patrons at Ranch Saloon were happy to have the Drafters pay it forward. And then immediately paid it back. “That’s how we do it here”, one woman cheered.

From the Ranch Saloon, the Drafters enjoyed the long descent down (for once) Viaduct Road.

Hawkeye was enjoying new bike day until his computer mount broke and his Garmin went flying. While the Drafters dutifully waited, leaving no Hawkeye behind, Twinkle Toes requested a photo as proof that he wasn’t DFL.

And onto the next tavern tribute to the Missouri Tavern. The bikers and bartender were most welcoming!

Speedy learns that Owen’s bike runs a little hotter than her new Trek. Worse than chain grease on the drivetrain side, these bikes have hot mufflers.

Thanks to Twinkle Toes for buying a round for all of the Drafters.

And to Midas for taking this incredible team photo and video.

The Drafters enjoyed an “all skate” back to home base. Pipes needed a little help from a friend after feeling deflated missing a can crushing opportunity. Midas does have the touch.

Some celebrated the mere fact that they could steal away a couple hours from busy lives and little kids to draft responsibly.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS:

Congrats to Keez for her podium finish at the New Glarus Road Race. The 2023 State Criterium Champ, she now adds 2024 State Road Race Champ to her portfolio. That’s quite the Tour de Dane Exit Stage!

Another profound way to complete the Tour de Dane Exit Stage is to complete a Sadistic Century with 30 climbs and 8819 feet of climb. Congrats, Cujo. Ouch. Look for in the Tour de Dane Femmes as a contender for the polka dot jersey.

Tour de Dane Femmes Standings Week 2: the yellow jersey shifted backs this week as Sandlot racked up some serious points after completing Stage 1 Lake Loop, earning bonus points for dropping off 6-packs at all 3 LBSs, Stage 2 Tavern Tribute and the Exit Stage at Ride the Drive.

Pit Stop is in second place, adding a few points last week for completing the Roll and Stroll for Pancreas Cancer.

Thing 1 made her Tour debut by getting dirty on Stage 7.

Speedy racked up some MTB stage points as well, introducing her sister to the sport, and checked off the Commuter Salute pre-stage.

Hammer put it down to take the green jersey on Stage 3 Cross Plains time trial.

Lots of opportunities remain for the Tour de Dane Femmes. It isn’t too late to start! Participants have the entire month of August to complete the pre-stage, 8 tour stages, and exit stage to earn points towards the yellow jersey. The green and polka dot jerseys are up for grabs in the time trail (stage 3) and Alp d’Blue (stage 8). Can’t win if you don’t play.

The route for Monday August 19 will be to Martinsville. The short pour ~27 miles and full strength ~30 miles will leave at 4:45 and 5PM.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Martinsville

RidewithGPS Drafters | Martinsville Short Pour

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

With apologies to Cream and Clapton.

I went down to the crossroads
Climbin’ hills beggin’ please
Down to the crossroads
Climbin’ hills beggin’ please
Asked the Lord above for mercy
Take me, if you please

The short pour was small but mighty. Squeak requested permission to ride her tri-bike after discovering her road bike Di2 shifting wouldn’t charge. Less than half a mile into the route, she returned her in her aero bike in search of a air (for her tire, not her lungs- she is a beast). Nemo pleaded no contest to the climbs ahead as she had just deplaned a flight from CO after hiking a 14er. Presley and Pepe held up team as they set off from Crossroads.

The full strength route out of Crossroads had a bigger showing, and even bigger excuses for performance. Vilks had too much fun over the weekend. BrickO clung to her master’s status. Aging is real. Keez had hammered nearly a 100 miles the day before. Spigot just came off of the Hotdish 100 gravel race. Hawkeye parked at the wrong lot and missed the start. Mario and Queenie were late for the short pour and unsure if they could gulp a full strength tap. And, the course didn’t load properly in Queenie’s Garmin. The list goes on…

A highlight to the evening was the addition of a newbie. We now have Slim and Slimmer pulling at the front for our drafting entertainment.

Also entertaining was BrickO’s vintage Voler jersey from 2013. There are only a handful of these in existence. eBay has a vintage Nike Beatles Revolution t-shirt for sale for $50,000. Hmmm…. What is this vintage jersey worth for 2 extra bonus points for those “completing” in the Tour de Dane Femmes? Let the biding begin!

The Drafters set out together from Crossroads to climb 2411 feet in 34 miles. There is only one photo to suggest they actually were together (credit to Skipper).

Slim and Slimmer rode dumb and dumber watts. Only Vilks had the chutzpah to hang with them until the very end. Which is unfortunate, because the Drafter Commission was entertaining a handicap for youth in order to keep the group together until they learned his (advanced) age. Ya can’t handicap an old guy who can still bring the heat. Blurple held in their the longest, pulling BrickO and others back to safety until he had to cut the cord. Hawkeye and Car Wash landed next. The rest of the Drafters staggered in one by one. Skipper let things simmer down before posting on Strava, allowing Vilks to comp him with pizza and beer to make up for breaking the Drafter code. Octane wins the best sportsmanship award for following the Drafter Code and leaving no father (Queenie) and son (Mario) duo without a map behind… even though all three were left behind by the peloton.

Thanks to our wonderful hosts at Creekside Scoop for keeping us well hydrated and refueled.

WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT:

Super Tuesday will be performing live at the Cobb Corn Roast Celebration. Where is Cobb? According to the lead drummer, Queenie, “that way”. Super easy to find. Shocker that he didn’t have the course loaded for Crossroads.

Tour de Dane Femmes Standings. It has been an exhilarating week one of the Tour. Pit Stop is currently defending the yellow jersey, after printing the manifesto and highlighting her strategy for each stage.

Speedy has Stage 1: Lake Loop locked up, including all the bonus points for distributing 6-packs of beer (unopened) to LBSs Cronometro, Slow Roll and Machinery Row.

Hammer is currently leading Stage 2: Tavern Tribute. Bravely entering the Ranch Saloon in Dane and paying it forward with a bloody mary, she then finished her tribute at Missouri Tavern.

At another tavern, Sandlot has the current fastest time for ordering pizza and beer at Riley Tavern after completing Stage 5: Gravel Grinder. A photo finish for the pre-stage salute to commute will be required to determine the winner (see Pit Stop’s pre-stage photo above).

Shaq has already completed the pre- and exit stages of the tour, finishing back to back 75 mile days at the Bike MS ride in Baraboo. Look for her to be a contender in stages 1-8.

There is plenty of time left to join the Tour de Dane Femmes to raise excitement for women’s cycling. With Kristen Faulkner from Alaska winning GOLD (the last American, Connie Carpenter won 40 years ago, is from Madison), there is promise! What? No Drafter jersey for the photo? LAST CALL for Hincapie Drafter gear. The store will close on August 7th.

The next generation of Drafters is coming in hot. Coach Arms’ little one just advanced from the training wheels division and is ready to take a pull next week for gold.

The Draft on Monday Aug 12 will be back on base camp with departures at 4:45 and 5PM. The full strength will be a 27 mile short pour and 33 mile route that can count towards the Tour de Dane Stage 2 Tavern Tribute. Drafters are encouraged to stop at the in Ranch Saloon in Dane to pay it forward, and at Missouri Tavern near the end to pay it back.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Short Pour Tavern Tribute

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Tavern Tribute

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Let the Tour begin! A few minor, but important updates and amendments are noted below for several stages.

PRE-STAGE: if you work from home, or commuting to work isn’t safe, you can commute to run errands (grocery store, bank, post office, etc). Send a photo at your errand destination.

STAGE 3: Cross Plains Time Trial. 12-mile time trial to support a local coffee shop.  for safety reasons, you will no longer cross highway 78. For fun, a climb has been added just before the finish.

STAGE 6: Viva la Cycling Clubs: there are 2 bonus points (not 1) for wearing the original Voler jersey. You may borrow one from an original member.

EXIT STAGE: please note that the Badger Challenge, formerly listed, does NOT qualify for the Tour de Dane as it takes place in September. Here are some options: Dairyland Dare, Bike MS Best Dam Bike Tour, New Glarus Road Race, Ride Across Wisconsin, WORS, Coon Fork 40. This is not an exhaustive list. Any other organized events for road, gravel or MTB can qualify so long as they take place in the month of August.

Draft repsonsibly,

BrickO

Due to financial cut backs, the Drafter Blog editor in chief was been let go several posts ago. The very enthusiastic associate editor is anything but junior. Sadly, her senior title applies only to her advancing age. When drafting the blog, her first draft is often her final draft. With that lame excuse, it is with our deepest apologies that we retract an egregious error.

“Renounced Coach Midas identified lack of cycling as the reason for his inability to turn over the pedals. Everything she touches turns to gold.”

RENOWNED. NOT RENOUNCED. Or denounced or otherwise bounced.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

20 resilient Drafters headed into the furnace in search of Lodi Canning Co. 20 made it back soaking wet, either due to humidity or getting caught in the rain.

If you like piña coladas
And gettin’ caught in the rain
If you’re not into yoga
If you have half a brain
If you like ridin’ hard on Monday
In the hills and the straights
Then I’m the Drafter you’ve looked for
Ride with me and escape

Welcome back to Blurple, Sandals and LuLu and welcome newbie Hawkeye. The Cyclones in the group followed the Drafter Code and left no one behind, not even a Hawkeye. Octane entered the bike corral with everything but his helmet. “Guess I don’t need to protect my brain since it clearly isn’t working.” Other things not working… Z Wrecks’ knee and Captain Joe’s legs.

BrickO and Z Wrecks drafted a day early, since Drafting 6 hours post-op total knee replacement was discouraged.

Fortunately, further orthopedic assessment determined that Captain Joe wasn’t a candidate for bilateral leg replacement. Renowned Coach Midas identified lack of cycling as the reason for his inability to turn over the pedals. Everything she touches turns to gold.

Maybe next week she will turn water into wine? Or at least dark beer. That would be a useful skill set since the Drafters continually find themselves riding in the rain. Let’s see what she finds at the end of the rainbow.

Not everyone got caught in the rain. Keez didn’t get caught by at all. By anyone. Which became problematic as few in the group had downloaded the Lodi Canning Co route. At the intersection, Keez took a left as indicated on her GPS. Someone far, far, far away yelled out, “LEFT?” and Keez confirmed that was, “RIGHT!”. And so she gapped them all. Smart.

When light turns to dark…

Let the Iowa Cyclone vs Hawkeye rivalry begin. Keez conjured up a store to welcome Hawkeye home.

Skipper didn’t mind a little rain. He is used to life on the water.

LuLu and Columbus make sure their canine drafts responsibly. Carry in, carrying out (see green bag attached to harness).

Blurple and Rimshot decided once they were wet, why not stay and wet their whistle?

The crew responsibly moved the back patio, where the optics for drinking were a bit better, or at least out of sight.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Cujo conquered the Washington Island Ultra. There is no photo evidence to share, but we can imagine the victory. CONGRATS!

Somebody put down the HAMMER at the Badfish Creek 40k Time Trial on Saturday. Congrats on your FIRST place finish!

Grit wins furthest Draft award. Glacier never looked so good.

You, too, can look this good. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PURCHASING THIS YEAR’S DRAFTER JERSEY (or vest, arm warmers, etc), the Hincapie Team Store will be open until Aug 7 at midnight.

BACK TO THE DRAFT: Next Monday we are back at Crossroads Coffeehouse at 2020 Main St in Cross Plains. There is parking behind and alongside the building, with overflow on Bourbon Rd. After the Draft, enjoy some cold ice cream and beer, or a beer float combo, and pizza on the patio. Departure times are 4:45 and 5PM for the short pour (24 miles) and full strength (34 miles) routes.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Crossroads Coffeehouse Short Pour

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Crossroads Coffeehouse

AUGUST KICKS OFF TOUR de DANE FEMMES. You can count any Monday Drafter ride for 5 points in STAGE 6. And pick up bonus points for drafting in this beauty, circa 2013. NOTE: the earlierTour de Dane Femmes blog post had a scoring error (probably more)- wearing this priceless jersey is worth 2 points. You can borrow one- if you know the right Drafters.

STAGE 6: Viva la Cycling Clubs.  Stage to support local bike clubs. Find a local bike club and show your support by joining them: 5 points for Drafting responsibly on a Mon in August with BrickO’s Drafters (2 extra points if you wear the original Voler drafter jersey!) and 5 points for riding with any other club including but not limited to Slow Roll Tue Night Rides, Stonefield Wheelmen, Bombay Bicycle Club, Madison Women’s Cycling Club, Wednesday Night Bike Rides, Femme 40 Racing, Brazen Dropouts, and Capital Brewery Bike Club. The more cycling clubs in the community, the more opportunities for people to cycle! Title your Strava post so that it is easily recognized, “Stage 6 Viva la _____ (name of bike club)”. Total Points: 10 (2 bonus)

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

READY FOR IT? Starting tomorrow, Thursday August 1st, you can ride the Tour de Dane stage race. Please note a few changes from the previous post, namely Stage 3 Time Trial course to avoid crossing Highway 78 (and add some elevation, because “when in doubt, climb”).

This is an exciting opportunity for the Drafters to support women’s professional cycling, encourage riders of all levels to enjoy the thrill of racing this magnificent sport, and give back (a little) to our cycling community.  The format of this Tour de Dane Femmes is a bit different from past years, shifting the focus to be more inclusive (men are invited to participate and extending the tour over the entire month to allow more opportunities to complete the challenge) and recognizing small businesses who are invested in our cycling community.

The Tour de France Femmes will take place Aug 12-18, and consists of 8 stages.  Our riders will have the entire month of August to complete the Tour de Dane Femmes challenge.  Modest prizes are at the race director’s discretion, and could be liquid in form.

Rules of engagement:

• Everyone is encouraged to participate, but only those Drafters identifying as female are eligible for the green, polka dot and yellow jersey awards.
• Not able to ride due to injury or illness?  You can still take part in the tour! Submit the photos required to show community support to the race director (instead of Strava).
• Please join BrickO’s Drafters group on Strava, and sign up for the Tour de Dane Challenge starting Aug 1.  This is how and where you will record your rides and photo evidence to support your claim.  PLEASE LABEL YOUR RIDES (ie. Stage 1 Lake Monona Loop). It would also be helpful if you text me that you are participating (much appreciated).
• Completion of the route accompanied by photo documentation in your Hincapie Drafter jersey (order here until Aug 7)is required to earn points. Don’t have a drafter jersey?  Green will do.
• There are only two stages where time matters– Stage 3 sprint/time trial for the green jersey, and the climb for the polka dot jersey at the end of Stage 8. 
• The yellow jersey will be awarded to the participant with the most points (100 total), regardless of time. In case of a tie, there will be a face off to see who can change a flat tubed tire the fastest.  Or we will simply have multiple winners.
• You have the entire month of August to complete 8 stages of the tour.
• You may complete the stages in ANY order, however, to best simulate the Tour de France experience, you are encouraged to follow them in order.

PRE-STAGE: Commuter Salute.  Bike to work day!  5 points for saving gas and going green. Photo of you in front of your workplace. Total points: 5

STAGE 1: Lake Monona Loop.  12-mile flat stage to support LBS (local bike shops).  No need to follow this route exactly, so long as you make it around the lake.  Points will be awarded for exploring local bike shops on this loop.  5 points for each of the following: drop off an unopened beer at 1)  Slow Roll, and take a photo of one of the Trek prototype bikes 2) Machinery Row, snap a photo with Slim and 3) Cronometro, take a photo of Colin’s one-hour record certificate. A 6-pack donation to the shop owner/employee and included in the photo will result in an extra bonus point.  Total points: 15 (3 bonus)

STAGE 2: Tavern Tribute. 24-mile flat stage to support local watering holes. There are two taverns on this route that have shown support for the Drafters in past years, Missouri Tavern along the bike path in Waunakee and the Ranch Saloon in Dane. 5 points for paying it forward: stop in the Ranch Saloon to buy a drink for someone on behalf of the Drafters (when we stopped there one Drafter Monday, a female former cyclist and patron bought a round for all of us).  Please don’t ask for water unless you make a purchase. 5 points for finishing with a drink (NA or alcoholic) at Missouri Tavern.  Total points: 10

STAGE 3: Cross Plains Time Trial. 12-mile time trial to support a local coffee shop.  Crossroads Coffeehouse has been a huge supporter of the Draft.  Let’s give back!  Coffee should give you an extra boost for this speedy stage. Start at the coffee shop and ease your way over to Bourbon Road to warm up your legs.  The TT starts at Bourbon and KP, racing into Black Earth. Just before 78, you will ride a counter clockwise box: right on Easy St, left on Hubbell, left on Center, left back onto KP.  Just before you reach Bourbon, you will need to complete the hilly lollypop, turning right onto Gils Way, and exiting on Tilda Trail back onto KP. 5 points for enjoying a coffee, espresso or pastry and 5 points for ordering an ice cream (beer floats count) at Crossroads Coffeehouse.  The FASTEST TT (please be sure to collect lap data for ONLY the route ON KP) will be awarded the green jersey. Total points: 10

STAGE 4: Horribly Hilly. 46-mile hilly route to support the Horribly Hilly Hundreds.  This flagship event has been a staple in our community for over 20 years.  It relies heavily on the support of volunteers. 10 points will be awarded for committing to volunteer for the 2025 event.  You can opt to help with the pre-ride (sometime in late May), packet pick up (Thur June 12) or post-race.  Volunteering will earn you a free entry to ride the event on Sat June 14. Since volunteer sign up does not take place until next year, your blood is your bond, and if you post your commitment on Strava, it will forever be on record. Alternative: join the Friends of Blue Mound Total points: 10

STAGE 5: Military Ridge Gravel Grinder.  19-mile flat stage to support gravel.  Gravel stages are included on the Tour de France, and gravel events in their own right are rapidly gaining popularity.  This stage is meant to introduce riders to gravel and support Rails to Trails, whose mission is to “build a nation connected by trails, reimaging public spaces to create safe ways to be active outdoors.” 5 points will be awarded for joining or donating any amount to Rails to Trails OR holding a State Trail Pass, and 5 points for ordering and enjoying food or beverage at Riley Tavern.  They supported the Funtathalon last year, and have always welcomed the cycling community.  The Strava post should include a photo of Riley Tavern, and a note that you proudly support Rails to Trails or hold a State Trail Pass. Total points: 10

STAGE 6: Viva la Cycling Clubs.  Stage to support local bike clubs. Find a local bike club and show your support by joining them: 5 points for Drafting responsibly on a Mon in August with BrickO’s Drafters (extra point if you wear the original Voler drafter jersey!) and 5 points for riding with any other club including but not limited to Slow Roll Tue Night Rides, Stonefield Wheelmen, Bombay Bicycle Club, Madison Women’s Cycling Club, Wednesday Night Bike Rides, Femme 40 Racing, Brazen Dropouts, and Capital Brewery Bike Club. The more cycling clubs in the community, the more opportunities for people to cycle! Title your Strava post so that it is easily recognized as Stage 6, like “Viva la _____ (name of bike club)”. Total Points: 10 (2 bonus)

STAGE 7: Capital Off Road Pathfinders. Stage to support your local trail system. What better way to honor a mountain stage than to ride a mountain bike!  This stage is an opportunity to explore and enjoy different terrain.  If you are new to MTBing, draft responsibly on the easier green trails in our local CORP trails (the green loop at Quarry Ridge and most of Seminole could be done on a gravel or fat bike).  If you are up for a bit of travel, enjoy other trail systems in WI like CAMBA, CWOCC or PASTA.  Earn 5 points for dirty drafting and 5 points if you bring someone along who is relatively new to MTBing (as defined by you needing to convince them to get off their road bike) OR are a member of CORP. Total points: 10

STAGE 8: Alp d’Blue. 30-mile mountain stage to appreciate that we don’t have mountains in WI. Start and end at the top of Blue Mound State Park. Stop in at Blue Mounds Bicycle Works and make the acquaintance of the owner, Zach. Pick up a Blue Mounds Bicycle Works sticker and take a photo of where it sticks for 5 points. The polka dot jersey will be awarded to the FASTEST climb (please be sure to collect lap data for just the climb portion, starting at the right hand turn on Blue Mound Park Road to the top where the lollipop loop begins) AFTER completing the entire stage. 5 additional points for riding up Blue Mounds twice. Total points: 10

EXIT STAGE: 10 points if you volunteer for or ride in an official cycling event in the month of August. Here are some options for road, MTB and gravel: Dairyland Dare, Bike MS Best Dam Bike Tour, Badger Challenge, Ride Across Wisconsin, WORS, Coon Fork 40. Total points: 10

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Far Far Farview was worth the wait. At last, Mother Nature didn’t do her rain dance between 4-7PM on a Monday evening. 26 Drafters, including 2 Newbies, danced on the pedals as they climbed to a view far, far away.

Shaq once again earned her “big girl” standing, showing up with a brand new solar powered Garmin, unafraid to face new technology. She stood like Lady Liberty with her Garmin held high above her head towards the sun, desperate for a quick charge. Hit-the-Wall made his 2024 Drafter debut fully charged. No bonk for this guy. Other members of the B team weren’t so fortunate. Watson arrived 20 minutes late due to traffic on University Ave (will that construction ever end?), only to discover that her shoes and helmet were not along for the ride. Shoeless wonders unite at the Draft. Watson is in the excellent company of Sandals and Twinkle Toes in those unencumbered by shoe wear.

And here’s a Drafter mystery requiring deductive reasoning to solve: a Drafter arrives early on Monday with a bike, helmet and SHOES but doesn’t ride. The only clue is 5 containers of blueberries. Who do you know that gets more done in a day than most in a week, commutes an hour (each way) to UW, is raising two beautiful girls, and makes a stop to drop off blueberries for Drafters before driving home to sleep off pneumonia???

The A Team convened with a little less kerfuffle. The group was focused on posing for the team photo and welcoming two Newbies, unaware of Twinkle Toes driving by. The group took off, leaving one Drafter behind. Unintentionally, of course. Seems as though both groups were guilty of forgetting something or someone.

The two Newbies made their quads known during the paceline down Schneider. 9 Volt came fully charged. A lesson in neuromuscular training was learned last week during her Devil’s Lake Century when her Shimano Di2 went DiDead. Every descent and flat found her legs spinning over 120rpms just to get some traction. Hard enough to keep up with on a single speed, impossible with a full charge and all gears accessible. The Colonel earned his handle after addressing Vilks as “sir” for the first 10 miles of the ride. The Drafters unanimously voted to promote him to rank of Colonel to avoid having to hear Vilks addressed as sir ever again.

The climb up Enchanted Valley quickly formed two grupettos. For those unfamiliar with the term:

Twinkle Toes, getting a late start (previous Drafter code violation noted), charged up Enchanted Valley and then got shelled by the peloton. Undeterred, he gutted it out for grupetto glory.

The Peloton waited on top of Farview for the first grupetto, made up of BrickO, Hammer and Cujo. A brief reprieve on the descent was met with another climb up Turkey Rd, where Rimshot was last seen pedaling. Out of gears with no place for his chain to go, Rimshot found his derailleur caught up in his rear wheel. Drafter code states, “No Drafter left behind”, but this requires oxygen being delivered to the brain to fully comprehend the code. As Rimshot’s mechanical happened at the steepest part of the climb, only the mosquitos had the gumption to stay behind.

Proof that Duracell and Dan-yelly do indeed Draft! Duracell may not be present for the team photo, but that’s not to say he isn’t in “charge”. Dan-yelly’s tardiness can be explained by the the high standard for fashion she must adhere to, requiring hours to pick out her Drafting socks.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS: Speedy hits the half century mark in style.

IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS: Tour de Dane Femmes! Please see blog from last week for details. All Drafters are encouraged to participate to show their support for the Tour de Dane Femmes, and local bike shops, coffee shops and taverns who support all cyclists in Dane County. There will be a pre-stage and 8 official stages throughout the month of August. Please join BrickO’s Drafters Strava group to complete the challenge.

The route for Monday July 29 is to Lodi Canning Co. Departures at 4:45 and 5PM, with full strength 38 mile and short pour 33mile options.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Lodi Canning Co.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Just Shy of Lodi Canning Co. Short Pour

Draft responsibly,

BrickO