A tour through the Historic Viaduct under the Wisconsin and Southern Railroads seems a fitting route for next week as 21st century technological challenges plagued the Drafters on Monday. Let’s revisit the historical events leading up to the posting of GPX files and uploading, downloading or otherwise off loading them to Garmin.

Back in the days of the original draft, a cartographer was employed to create routes. She set out with a paper map, the kind one used to carry in their horse drawn buggy and ultimately in the glove box of their gas powered vehicle. With pencil in hand, routes were carefully crafted by trial and error. Route lines were traced along roads in red Sharpie on a clean map. Fresh typewriter ribbon at the ready, a list of turns and road names were typed out and placed with double-sided tap along side the map. A Xerox copy was made and then shrunk, and shrunk, and shrunk again until 4 maps could be placed in the Xerox machine and printed on one sheet of paper, then cut down to pocket size maps for each Drafter. It was discovered that maps printed on regular paper did not withstand the salt concentration of human sweat (for sure not Octane’s fuel), and so lamenation became necessary.

During that time in history, few Drafters survived over the age of 40, and so presbyopia was not a concern. As the lifespan of those enlisted exceeded the ability of their eyes to focus on nearby objects, maps became unreadable, and hence the impetus for data files to be born our of necessity. And so the Drafters moved into the new technological era, trading square wheels for tubeless tires, Xerox for GPX, and laminated cards for Garmin computers. As history teaches us, change is the only constant, and change requires adaptation. And so here we are on a Monday night…. with a new set of technological challenges.

It all started with a failed reconnaissance mission. These typically takes place over the weekend to ensure safe passage for the Drafters on Monday. However, the recon mission for Bridge to Nowhere failed as the crew was called away to do reconnaissance for the upcoming Horribly Hilly Hundreds in Blue Mounds. Shout out to Bomber, Octane, Z Wrecks and Shaq for their efforts.

Fortunately, we have a man on the inside (merci, Bomber) who got wind of road construction starting on Hwy 19, interfering with our scheduled route to The Bridge to Nowhere. A press release with a new route, Backdoor Riley, was sent out using cutting edge technology via the GroupMe app. But GroupMe has its limitations, as it requires attentiveness to incoming messages, and to be fair, many of the messages are non-essential. The Drafters are looking into chip implants with route change updates that cannot be missed.

Captain Joe is no stranger to technology when it comes to flying with a Garmin. But this was his first Draft using Garmin technology on a bike. There were no issues downloading the Bridge to Nowhere route onto his Garmin…. but like his teammate, Duracell, the GroupMe message broadcasting change of venue did not reach its target.

Vintage, an iconic name for this blog, trusted his memory rather than technology for time of departure. Which was not at 5:30PM. He drafted responsibly, alone, but joined the group post-draft with champagne.

Our last technological blunder came from Gopher, who got the memo on route change from Bridge to Nowhere to Riley, but missed the Backdoor cue. Staying true to the Drafter code, Captain Joe, Z Wrecks and Tinker followed Gopher through the front door to Riley Tavern.

Luckily, when it came to the first Draft for Gopher’s daughter, he made no mistakes and drafted responsibly.

Despite the technological set backs, 22 Drafters started at various times and made it safely back to base camp.

The B-Team welcomed back Presley and her blue suede shoes and newbie Grit. She came with her handle, a rare occasion when one isn’t assigned at boot camp. Fitting that she joined McGritty on her first expedition. This group had to rely on McGritty for coordinates. Presley did download the route, but got a Garmin error message, “course corrupt”. Shaq, too, loaded the course but her Garmin did a wild Ivan and directed her in contradictions. Grit couldn’t get her Garmin and phone to connect, and so the course couldn’t not be transmitted other than in morse code.

The A Team had to be photographed in two parts, since the photographers ability to work the panorama feature on the iphone was limited. DJ Jazzy joined the fleet on route so is not pictured. NOTE: right and left wing does not have a political connotation.

With the long light at Parmenter and Donna, it was tempting to refuel at Culvers. The 4 Gravel Grinders set a blistering pace, and a chocolate malt would have done wonders for those of us trying to keep up with Slim, Keez, Granny and Squirrel.

Fueled by bourbon aged porter the day before, Vilks had a strong showing. It was Vilks and Keez in a break away for the gold, until they hit red.

All is well that ends well.

It is sooooo good to have Keez back behind bars. There was a great post by Wisconsin Bike Fed recently that I’d encourage you to check out. She is one dot amongst too many. Thank you for Drafting Responsibly. It is an honor to be part of such a group of cycling enthusiasts and advocates.

Next week we will offer a short pour for those who prefer not to ride double fisted. The route starts and finishes the same, with a few less miles (just under 30). Both routes include passing through the Historic Viaduct under the Wisconsin and Southern Railroads.

Departure times are 4:45 and 5PM, regardless of route. Or, you can choose your own time and adventure like Vintage and Duracell.

RidewithGPS | Viaduct Short Pour

The full strength ride offers 34 miles of smiles.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Viaduct to 100 Mile Grove

For those who ordered new Drafter gear from the Hincapie Team Store, be sure to check your email for shipping updates from FedEx. As these kits are made in and sent from Columbia, they require a signature (perhaps an international rule?) BUT you can click “manage” and provide an indirect signature if you won’t be home.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The staging corral for the Drafters looked like a pumpkin patch. The historically green Drafters were joined by several members of the Stonefield Wheelmen donned in bright orange. It was a glorious union of the two cycling groups. DJ Jazzy was never this snazzy during our indoor season, but turned it up a notch for his first outdoor Draft.

25 Drafters showed up to brave the 1700 feet of climbing over 28 miles, including 5 newbies. WELCOME! The B (B for breaking away early) Team included 2 of the new recruits, one of who set a record for the longest enlisted Drafter to not see action. Biding her time for years, Puma finally decided to show herself. Possibly, her run in with Keez in the men’s bathroom at the Orpheum while attending Dancing with The Stars may have spawned her curiosity. Puma is a sign for strength, wisdom and intelligence. Can’t speak to the latter two qualities yet, but by the looks of her calves, she’s got strength pegged.

Our other newbie, McGritty, was recruited by Pit Stop. The motivation for this invite has been called into question, as Pit Stop may have an an ulterior motive. The most senior femme of the Drafters, it is not often we doubt her commitment to the Draft. However, it was discovered that the reason for her absence last Monday was that she opted to ride with another team! Gasp. It it believed that McGritty was part of that other team, and was brought as an offering of penance for her sins. Regardless of how the Irishman came to become part of the Drafters, we are thrilled to have him.

It was good to have Nemo and Shaq back in the lineup. Their absence last week was questioned after the Pit Stop incident. Shaq was totally eclipsed by the sun. Hmmm. Convenient. Nemo claims to have had an orchestra concert. The Overture Center pit records have been subpoenaed. Speedy is willing to accept performing as a valid excuse, so long as Nemo plays an instrument other than the flute. “It just gets too competitive”.

The A (A for almost on time) Team almost ran out of runway before take off.

There was a flight delay due to a mechanical failure by one of the newbies. As in, failure to bring cycling shoes. Luckily for Twinkle Toes, Z Wrecks had an extra pair of shoes, roughly the same size, and fit with the correct SpeedPlay cleat. Didn’t seem to slow him down any. “Who is that guy in the Castelli jersey? Must be a crit racer. Takes the inside corner with no fear and comes out ON TOP”, admired Vilks.

He will be required to perform a check list before each Draft with an elected team member. Keez was the obvious choice, as made apparent by her ability to lay out matching socks with Slim. Clearly, feet matter.

Twinkle Toes wasn’t the only one with a mechanical failure. The climb up Enchanted Valley was anything but for Yabba Dabba. He may have been more successful running up Fred Flintstone style as his transmission failed, followed by his chain. One of our newbies clearly read the Drafter Handbook on etiquette before take off, as he stopped midway up Enchanted Valley (uff da) to tinker with the mechanical failures of his fellow Drafter. Welcome to the Draft, Tinker!

Slim in his Bad Kitty socks was a Bad Ass, pulling the group on his gravel bike as though he was a motor-paced cycle. Following the Drafter Code of Conduct, Slim and the other bad asses (Bomber and Vilker) kindly waited at every hill top where there was a John Deere combine convention happening. Go green or go home, I guess.

Back at home base, the group relaxed with a cold draft. We agreed this was a casual Zone 2 ride (despite Vilks hitting his all time high 5′ power).

Given the number of newbies, and a few forgetful oldies, the Hincapie Store will reopen until Tuesday April 23 at midnight. If you would like to try on a kit before purchasing, show up to Draft on Monday night. NOTE: there are two styles. Axis is looser fitting, club cut. Velocity is a higher grade material, more form fitting, race cut. The “true” race cut is their Signature collection, which we are not offering. Also note there are two inseam lengths when choosing shorts or bibs. You do you.

Hincapie Store Link

Plan for next Monday, April 22: depart at 4:45 or 5PM. This worked really well, as did communication whether or not to regroup. Well done, team! Our route is a short 28 miles, a Bridge to Nowhere. There is one technical descent on Whippoorwill Rd. Please use extreme caution. You MUST stop at the bottom at the intersection with Highway 19.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Bridge to Nowhere

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The Drafters were in the path of totality. The combined sum of 3 consecutive Monday drafts totaled up to zero miles, thanks to rain, sleet and snow. Fortunately, the solar eclipse brought some sunshine and a dozen Drafters were able to check off the ever elusive Easy Street from their ride calendar.

The theme song 4 of the Drafters was adapted from Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart. While the artist was likely referring to the heart as an organ of love, cyclists may have a more pragmatic approach, appreciating it as an organ that pumps oxygen rich blood to working muscles.

(Turn around, Bright-eyes)
Every now and then I fall way back
(Turn around, Bright-eyes)
Every now and then I fall way back

And I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only pull me tight
We’ll be holding on forever
And we’ll only be riding it right ’cause we’ll never be wrong
Together we can take it to the end of the line
Your draft is like a shadow on me all of the time
(All of the time)
I don’t know what to do and I’m always in the back
We’re riding in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight, forever’s gonna start tonight
(Forever’s gonna start tonight)

Once upon a time I was pulling in front
But now I’m only falling apart
There’s nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart

Once upon a time there were watts in my legs
But now there’s little left in the tank
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart

Not everyone had an empty tank. Slim cracked a Red Bull at the start to top off his tank, which had been been fueling the 110 miles prior to his pursuit of Easy Street. Pepe, despite being the caboose for most of the ride, found enough fuel in his tank to sprint ahead and have the fire pit crackling 20 minutes before the rest of the train arrived. Just the though of his new Cervelo, arriving in June (thank you Cronometro), makes him faster.

Drafter’s greatest talent, however, came from Rimshot as he led songs around the campfire. There is more depth to Rimshot than meets the eye. Name that tune:

You’re motoring
What’s your price for flight?
In finding Mister Right
You’ll be alright tonight

Drafters from around the globe could hear Night Ranger.

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR NEXT DRAFT, MONDAY APRIL 15: we will move the start time to 5PM for all Drafters. Until the routes become longer, it would be nice to start at the same time. The Executive Board would like to propose the following group ride dynamic and etiquette such that all Drafters are in compliance with the mission statement: 1) stay safe, 2) have fun, 3) get better or get what you need to grow your passion for cycling.

In the past, there have been several groups, A Team to FO Team. The board would like to limit this to two teams: 1) Go Team and 2) ReGroup Team. Regardless of your fitness and aptitude, you are welcome to join either group, so long as you abide by the rules.

GO TEAM: go get what you need from the ride. Do not feel pressure to wait for anyone. Do Draft Responsibly. Everybody’s circumstances are different. Perhaps a PR is on your mind for a segment, Monday is your dedicated hard day, or your goal is to keep up with a stronger rider. Or maybe what you need on Monday is to enjoy a chill ride at your own pace and prefer not to have Drafters waiting for you. Hard or easy- these are all valid reasons to go with the Go Team.

REGROUP TEAM: go get what you need from the ride, with the commitment to stop occasionally to regroup. You night find safety in numbers. You may enjoy the conversation at check points where you pull over. Can you still pound the ride? YES. So long as you agree to stop and regroup. Regroup is your group if one of your goals is to cross the finish line as a cohesive group.

****This group is not intended as a training camp for riders with little experience or fitness. REGROUP is not that same as a NO DROP ride. See note below.

DRAFTER RULE: whichever group you choose, please do not draft alone (sort of implied). If you are with the REGROUP team and feeling apprehensive about holding everybody up, remember that is what they signed up for. However, you can and should release yourself from the contract if you can’t keep them in sight. In this case, please be sure to have a Drafter who agrees to stay with you. New or slower riders: be sure to identify a Drafter to draft with before departing.

The route for April 15 will be the 27.5 mile Pine Loop. Wheels up at 5PM for both the Go and ReGroup Teams.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Pine Loop

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The inaugural draft. In March. With bare legs and arms. 16.6 Drafters, including 2.6 newbies. And if you count drafting from Switzerland, 18.6 were in attendance. Oh my. What a start to the 2024 season!

Technically, the inaugural draft occurred on March 4 when 3 of the indoor Drafter cohort braved the elements to test their strength. There were no bare arms or legs on that blustery day.

7 days and +30 degrees later….

2.6 newbies enlisted for the inaugural Draft. Welcome Rocky, Yabba Dabba and Thing 0.6 (making a full debut in mid-June). Rocky was recruited by Pipes, who recognized her cycling potential during a humble warrior pose during yoga class. Rocky agreed reluctantly to return to the cycling world after a hiatus of undisclosed duration, although a clever Drafter could estimate that time by calculating the half life of a cycling shoe velcro strap. Nothing a little duct tape couldn’t fix. All taped up, she went the full 12 rounds. On the way out of Middleton Hills, Pipes rode along side her friend to show support… in her car, beeping the horn! Footer stepped up and corralled Rocky into the F Team. What is the F Team, exactly? Depends who you ask. F as in behind the A-E teams. F as in Footer’s team. F as in, “If you don’t like the pace I ride, you can F off!”

In an exclusive interview post-ride, Rocky gasped, “Well, I’m still standing. I didn’t die. And I love to get my a** kicked at least once a day. And now I need to go home and stretch.”

Yabba Dubba was recruited by DJ Jazzy, who has yet to make an outdoor Draft appearance, but generously shared his fitness center space with the Indoor Drafters over the winter months.

As such, Yabba Dabba did not get the green memo. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with his visibility orange, mind you. It was the fashionable color of choice for Fred Flintstone.

Looking to go green? The Hincapie Drafter Store is open through Sat March 23rd. There is no obligation to buy a Drafter kit. Huge thanks to the design team: Skipper (In Quads We Trust), Pipes (chain link tree), Speedy (pony tail on the female jerseys), Z Wrecks, Cookie Monster, and Footer who hung in there for 15 versions of this incredible kit. Bibs, shorts (two inseam lengths), club cut AXIS or race cut Velocity jerseys, long sleeve jersey, MTB jersey and polar jackets are available.

The winds from the south were favorable for our route to Riley Tavern. It is well documented in the Farmer’s Almanac that all roads to taverns are favorable. Perhaps that is not the proper citation. BrickO’s Almanac may be the more accurate reference. Despite the promise of a tail wind home, Rimshot decided to leave his 50 pound rucksack behind. It’s a thing. Especially when the rucksack is filled with beer.

The roll out photo above is deceiving. BrickO most certainly did not pull the group in the headwind. Slim, Bomber, Yabba Dabba and Rimshot provided draft protection for the group. In accordance to the Drafter Code of Conduct, Slim pulled the group back to base camp before retreating to Lupe’s for a burrito. He has to keep his caloric balance in check. Oh, to be 25…. Or even 50.

Our medical team is very concerned with the impact of aging on the cyclist. Team Physician (minus the medical degree) Speedy gave a seminar on diagnosis a stroke. While there is no literature to support this sign, Speedy is confident in its validity. PT Footer and NP Ninja were not available for comment.

The stroke sign was tested during the Fat Tire Birkie event last Saturday. Nobody tested positive. Congrats to those Drafters who didn’t let lack of snow get in the way of a fun fat day.

In other chilly events, CONGRATS to Coach Arms, her assistant and the entire women’s Badger Hockey Team on another WCHA victory. Tune in to watch the Badgers this Saturday in the NCAA Regional Tournament, played at home! Tickets sold out in less than 2 minutes. Go Bucky!

In other strong, groundbreaking women news: CONGRATULATIONS to KickA**KK on her recent release, the Willkie Sprint: A Story of Friendship, Love, and Winning the First Women’s Little 500 Race. Pre-order on Amazon or Indiana University Press. We hope to have KickA**KK return to the Draft mid-summer to autograph you copy!

March is an unpredictable month. The route for Monday March 18 is Easy, but the weather may be anything but. Forecast is currently set for 32 degrees. Please check GroupMe for updates. There will be no drafting below 50 degrees. Maybe 40. Departure time for all groups A-F is 4:30PM.

RidewithGPS link: Drafters | Easy Street

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

February 29th isn’t the only oddity in the calendar this year. Fat bike season came and went, with my new 45NRTH Wolfgar boots still in the box. There was a small widow where Lake Mendota (mostly) froze over and the most daring (and light weight) Drafters took to the ice, with water wings and PFDs in their packs.

Ice is still solid at the UW LaBahn Arena. As are Coach Arms and the Badger Women’s Hockey Team! Some Drafters came out to cheer them on against St. Cloud and St. Thomas.

Some Drafters found man made snow to complete the Birkie. But they may have used it all up….

The Fat Tire Birkie, scheduled for next weekend, is entertaining swapping studded tires and snow for knobby tires and gravel.

On a more positive note, with a handful of days in February in the upper 60s, many Drafters were seen riding on the road baring arms.

It appears the season was fruitful one way or another.

NOTE: these two glorious events are not sequential or related. Can you guess who drafted responsibly?

The Garage Band broke up, but a new indoor group rose from the ashes. A huge sweaty thanks to DJ Jazzy for letting us draft responsibly over the winter. If the Monday weather pattern continues, the members of this indoor group will take their show on the road on March 4th to wrap up their season. And with that…

Look for the regular drafter season to start on Monday March 11th at 4:30PM. In the early rides, there will be only one group. As the days grow longer, we will shift the start times to 5 and 5:30PM with A and B teams. Be sure to come well lit (as in blinky lights) and BYO beverages for the post-draft draft. Solo stove and heat lamps provided, but bring your own lawn chair.

As is tradition, the first draft will be a 25 mile southernly route to Riley Tavern.

RidewithGPS Link Drafters | Riley Tavern

Cancellations due to in climate weather and route changes will be announced via Drafter GroupMe. When in doubt, text BrickO. Alternatively, when in doubt, climb. That is the motto for our 2024 Hincapie kit.

Link to the Hincapie Team Store will be posted as soon as the graphics are done for the bibs/shorts. Despite the popular request for white bibs/shorts, they will most likely definitely be black. The ponytail on the rider on the rear pocket will only be available in the female jerseys. Sorry, Vintage.

Please note: if there is something you would like other than a kit (polar jacket, wind jacket, vest), PLEASE EMAIL ME ASAP. Also, if you would like to try on sizes before ordering, PLEASE EMAIL ME ASAP so that a sizing kit can be ordered before the store opens. The sizing is the same as past years. You can choose between Velocity (race cut) or Axis (club cut). We have not offered the highest pro line (Signature Collection) due to cost, but if you are interested, please let me know. Lastly, Hincapie has a new gravel line of clothing that I might make available, if there is interest. Check out the different lines here.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Draft Away by Dobie Gray

Beginnin’ to think that it’s pedalin’ time
I don’t understand other things I do
The world outside looks so unkind
Now I’m countin’ on you to carry me through

Oh, give me the quads, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your watts ‘n’ roll and draft away
Oh, give me the quads, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your watts ‘n’ roll and draft away

And when my quads are free
You know a melody can move me
And when I’m feelin’ blue
The peloton’s comin’ through to soothe me

Thanks for the joy that you’ve given me
I want you to know I believe in your song
And rhythm and rhyme and harmony
You’ve helped me along, makin’ me strong

Oh, give me the quads, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your watts ‘n’ roll and draft away
Oh, give me the quads, boys, and free my soul
I wanna get lost in your watts ‘n’ roll and draft away

A rainy week gave way to a glorious day for the final draft. Temperatures were a wee bit nip for the 10AM full pour. Conversations surrounding arm warmers, full fingered gloves and ear wraps were more vivacious than middle school girls deciding on outfits for a dance. LuLu selected a lovely furry ear wrap, Gopher doubled up on gaiters and Cannibal doubled down on green jerseys. Say what??? Yup. Cannibal went green.

Squirrel crossed athletic discipline boundaries, wearing a XC ski wardrobe and Lululemon pants. For real, not the Novara look-alike logo brand that earned LuLu his handle. Innocent mistake, for those non-fashion conscious (aware) cyclists.

At the other end of the thermoregulatory spectrum, Rimshot and Sandals opted to show some leg, hoping to solidify their tan lines before winter sets in.

Mercury didn’t rise much for the 11AM short pour, but they rose to the occasion.

In order to generate a bit more heat, LuLu drafted responsibly with his 650B 2″ tires, reaping, threshing, gathering, and winnowing through the corn fields. The rest of the A Team was plenty warm just trying to keep up to the harvester.

An unanticipated bridge out on County Highway Y gave the A Team a bit of a pause, long enough for BrickO and Z Wrecks to catch up. Fortunately, Racek Rd provided a scenic bypass, with gorgeous views of the Ferry Bluffs.

Skipper’s artistic eye and camera captured the B Team’s adventures beautifully.

Anybody know a good Physical Therapist? Take your pick out of this trio!

Many who couldn’t make the final draft were on deck for the awards ceremony. Slim, Keez, Badger, Sandlot, Speedy, Vilks, Granny, Pipes and Hit-the-Wall filled the stands in anticipation of this year’s recipients.

This season we enjoyed 23 rides covering 741.28 miles (when quads are tired, 0.28 miles are significant). Our cycling family has enlisted 164 Drafters, including 9 newbies this year: Velo, Animal, Griz. Bieber, Shaq, Watson, Presley, Cotton Tail, and Boreo. Several Drafters committed to at least 10 tours: BrickO, PitStop, Speedy, Duracell, Rimshot, Pepe, LuLu, Octane, Knievel, Cannibal, Shaq, Cujo, Queenie, Footer, Squirrel, Granny, Keez and Z Wrecks. Thanks to our friends at SweatVac for providing a sweat barrier.

Historically, the MVP award goes to the Drafter with the highest attendance (Cannibal and Cujo). Breaking tradition, the MVP award this year goes to… (Queenie with the drum roll, which you can listen to on Spotify) Shaq. New to cycling, Shaq conquered the Horribly Hilly Hundreds, RAGBRAI and Garmin technology in the span of a summer. This sense of adventure embodies the Drafter spirit.

The Tour de Dane Femmes took place in July, concurrent with the Tour de France Femmes, in an effort to generate support for women’s cycling. The event spanned 7 days and consisted of 3 challenges/stages: 1) yellow jersey for the most miles ridden, 2) green jersey for the time trial, and 3) polka dot jersey for the hillier than hell series of climbs. Congratulations to all of the participants: Cujo, Keez, Flash, Belle, BrickO, Animal, Granny, Shaq, Sandlot, Coach Arms, Nemo and Thing One. Thanks to Online Cycling Gear for providing the jerseys!

Four members were inducted into the Flat Tire Club: Octane, Footer, T1 and Velo (twice). They now have an option to cap off their stems with a choice of emotion.

Slim, our Drafter mechanic who “tirelessly” assisted with the flat tire changes was gifted his very own bike tire changing station.

There were more parts than tires needing to be fixed. Keez required a new ACL after being hit by a car, and Rimshot lost a pair of Hincapie Drafter shorts and some skin. And all they got was these stinkin’ t-shirts.

There is a saying, “You have to be really good to know you aren’t very good.” Meaning, if you are exceptionally gifted at something, say cycling, for example, you can appreciate the chasm that exists between you and a professional. Or Vintage and LuLu. On one particularly challenging draft, the group politely waited at the top of a climb. While waiting, these two yardbirds decided to throw in an extra off-road climb for funsies. They earned the “stupid climb” award, a clever topo map of the terrain they conquered.

Caution: sentiment ahead. The Drafters are not BrickO’s. They Drafters are a family operation, who support and encourage one another on and off the bike. While I am (BrickO speaking in the first person is rare, as the Drafters are a unit not owned by one person) beyond grateful for the gifts received on Sunday, the true gift is the community we have built together.

That said, these beers, whiskey, pumpkin spice bars and grapefruit pie will be gratefully consumed and the incredible art will hang proudly on my wall (once I reinforce a stud). Thank you. So much.

The Drafting season isn’t over- it has only morphed. The Dirty Draft has commenced. Join the crew on Monday at 4:30 leaving from the CXC parking lot. Once the snow flies, drop your tire pressure and join the Drift Draft! Details will be posted on the DirtyDraft GroupMe app. Let me know if you would like to be added.

We will likely be gathering for special events, like the UW Badger Women’s Hockey game on Sat Feb 3 with Coach Arms and pond hockey with Speedy, so keep your Drafter GroupMe app alive through the winter.

Draft responsibly,
BrickO

Goodbye, Drafter rides
Though I never knew you all
Some had the grace to hold the line
While those behind you crawled

They crawled out on Woodland
And they whimpered in the rain
They set you on the A Team
And they made you change your name

And it seems to me you pulled your life
Like a drafter in the wind
Never knowing who to cling to
When the wind set in

And I would’ve liked to draft you
But I was too far behind
Your candle burned strong long before
Mine was ever lit

17 Drafters braved the brutal north westerly wind for the final Monday night installment of the 2023 season. The line up included a second showing from JRAD, doubling his drafting potential. This exponential increase in attendance is anticipated (expected) to continue in future seasons. Another pleasant surprise was the appearance of Einstein. This time, with a bike! Not sure if his Drafter handle will hold. HIs brilliance in drafting responsibly by only drinking is now in question.

Vintage was a sight, with blonde man-bun peaking out from behind his helmet, and nubbins gripping the pavement on his full suspension steed. He intentionally sought out gravel just to watch his fish tail. Gave Midas quite a shock. There must have been a memo about knobs and nubs, as Speedy, Gopher and LuLu all showed up ready to grind some gravel.

The Gravel Grinders were the epitome of the Drafter Spirit, making sure no Drafter was left behind.

Missed was Cujo, who was home recovering from her Hibernator 100 on Saturday. Congrats on another glorious gravel finish!

Bomber was also missing from flight, likely coming down from his podium finish at the Dam Challenge Triathlon.

Now a word from the Beatles:

You say you want a revolution
Well, you know
We all want to change the world
You tell me that it’s evolution
Well, you know
We all want to change the world

Keez is doing her part to change the world, or at least her knee range of motion, with her first full post-op revolution!

The END OF THE YEAR DRAFTER finale will take place on Sunday, October 15th.

There will be two drafts on tap: 1) 10AM departure, 55 mile route to Mazo, and 2) 11AM departure, 36 mile Spring Valley route. Please adhere to the departure times as they are carefully calculated to ensure all Drafters return at precisely the same time for the post-Draft awards ceremony at 1:30ishPM. Please BYO lawn chairs, food and beverages to enjoy while we toast to a wonderful drafting season.

PLEASE CHECK GROUPME FOR UPDATES ON SUNDAY MORNING AS THE WEATHER MAY BE FORMIDABLE. In case of inclement weather, the rides may be shortened or cancelled. In the event of the latter, the awards ceremony will commence at 4PM.

RidewithGPS Drafters | A-mazo Finale Rox

The short pour will depart at 11:00AM for Spring Valley.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Spring Valley

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

A few days past the Harvest Moon, Neil Young was spot on for our Drafter theme as 19 rolled down Easy Street.

Come a little bit closer
Hear what I have to say
Just like children sleepin’
We could draft this night away

But there’s a full moon risin’
Let’s go draftin’ in the light
We know where the music’s playin’
Let’s go out and feel the night

Because I’m still in love with you
I want to see you draft again
Because I’m still in love with you
On this harvest moon

The plan was to stay together. That lasted for 30 seconds, as Octane dropped Scarlet Begonias chain (doesn’t everyone name their bike?) 100 yards from the start. BrickO and Midas circled back, and thanks to the Midas touch, Octane and Scarlet Begonias were back up and rolling quickly. The chase group had the peloton in sight when Octane dropped his light. Can you say hot mess? All was forgiven as Octane procured a delicious batch of brownies for the Drafters. His priorities are in check.

Things got a bit dicey in Dane as Mario drove his kart off-road, expertly navigating his way through gravel and narrowly escaping a field of freshly spreed manure. Whatever inspires you to be better….

Queenie certainly found inspiration to write, produce and release is new EP, RISING. Listen here on Spotify. You can almost hear him belting out the lyrics in the action photo below.

The Drafters paused briefly before rolling down Easy Street to appreciate the sun hanging low in the western sky and reflect on our time together in 2023. There is only enough daylight for one final Monday night draft.

Back at base camp, laughter flowed freely although many agreed admission could have been charged for MLN (Monday Night Live, a subsidiary of SNL) guest appearance by comedian Tennille.

The greatest pedaling feat of the evening was far from Easy Street. Keez took her first pedal stroke only 5 days after surgery. Not all super power is measured in watts.

On that note, a big shout out to the 500+ riders who showed up at Brittingham Park on Sunday for Ride for Your Life to create a safer future for cyclists.

Quick shout out to Cujo on her recent 2023 World Triathlon Championship Finals finish in Pontevedra, Spain. In an inclusive Drafter interview, Cujo credited her lightening fast bike split to Slim’s Skills Clinic. Draft responsibly.

The final Monday night Draft on Monday Oct 9 at 5PM will be a slightly modified 19 mile Chapel Ride, to include the bike path home through Pheasant Branch Conservancy in order to provide a safe route with the setting sun (Bike Path Bonanza).

RidewithGPS link to Drafters | Bike Path Bonanza

NOTE ABOUT BIKE PATH ENTRY: RidewithGPS directs you to cross Airport Rd in order to gain access to North Fork Trail. If traffic is too heavy to accomplish this safely, please turn RIGHT onto Pleasant View Road, and then left into the Fireman’s Park parking lot, where it is easy to connect to the North Fork Trail (see map below).

Mark your calendars for the END OF THE YEAR DRAFTER 50 on Sunday Oct 15 at 10AM. Following the ride, please bring a lunch and beverage to enjoy at base camp. There will be a brief (toned down significantly from past years) awards ceremony, including a podium presentation for the winners of the Tour de Dane Femmes.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The Clash sang it best…

Drafters, you got to let me know
Should I stay, or should I go?

From 11AM until 4:55PM, drafting down Easy Street seemed like an easy answer. And then this showed up on the radar:

When life hands you lemons, Z Wrecks makes Sazeracs! And rainbows.

The forecast for the Badger Challenge had the reverse trend- rain to sunshine. Congrats to all the Drafters who supported the cause.

Please join the Drafters this Sunday at Brittingham Park for a ride to the Wisconsin State Capitol to urge Congress to fund safe biking infrastructure for all. Register here. Anyone interested in riding from Middleton to Brittingham, make yourself known on GroupMe. Keez will be on site as the honorary spokesperson for the Drafters. Wish her well as she undergoes surgery tomorrow!

The Easy Street route will be recycled for Monday October 2, departure at 5PM for all Drafters.

RidewithGPS Drafters | Easy Street

The last Monday night draft will be October 9 at 5PM. The END OF THE YEAR DRAFTER 50 mile ride will take place on Sunday Oct 15th at 10AM.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

18 wheelers set out for Riley Tavern on what could only be described as the best draft of the year. Certainly, the weather was favorable, with smells of fall in the air, but that was not the defining “best” feature of Monday night’s draft. There was no division between A and B teams (although an allowance was made for a duo F-Team), no separate taps for the long and short pours. The Drafters rode as one. And it was a blast.

Awww. Aren’t these Colnago Twins cute?

Pepe and Velo came in hot, and Nemo joined the Draft further west. Wondering how this group managed to stay together? A myriad of factors, including 1) Granny riding a semi-functional bike the same vintage as her Drafter handle; 2) Pepe turning up the heat, pulling the peloton like he was born to do;

3) a 10 min breather mid-route compliments of Velo renewing his Flat Tire Club membership. Slim handled the mechanical in record time (Machinery Row is lucky to have him) while the entire peloton honored the Drafter code, pulling off the road for a team bonding session; 4) the promise of a fresh batch of scotcheroos baked by Midas. Motivation never tasted so good.

Some highlights to celebrate over the recent weeks:

Ironman WISCO. Congrats to Squeak and Tree of Rown for crushing it, and to Coaches Slim and Midas who put many athletes on the podium.

Z Wrecks and BrickO played dirty in the Dirt Diggler Gravel Grinder in NC.

Duracell and Speedy are drafting responsibly in Italy! Check your mailbox for cases of wine from Tuscany.

The Northern Cohort Dirty Drafters rocked the Chequamegon MTB Festival, which was reportedly a much cleaner race than last year. Momma Monster is still finding traces of mud in various places.

Outside Magazine reported Madison as one of the top 15 happiest places to live in the US. The Drafter’s very own Slim was interviewed! “We keep it weird…”

Z Wrecks braved drafting in NYC and lived to talk about it.

Perhaps the greatest feat was Keez gaining 90 degrees of knee flexion! Thanks to ALL THE DRAFTERS for the overwhelming support following her accident (texts, visits, home made granola, lasagna, pasta, endless treats including Crumble Cookies, fruit, flowers, plants, and concealer for bruises). A special shout out to Drs Wampus and Squeak for their ortho love.

Monday night rides will continue to get shorter and shorter in order to guarantee drafting safely with enough daylight. ALL GROUPS will depart at 5PM for Easy Street.

RidewithGPS link Drafters | Easy Street

RIDES AHEAD:

Dirty Draft with Midas at Quarry Ridge, every Friday at noon.

Bomber and Belle’s Engagement Ride Saturday Sept 23. A 46 mile scavenger hunt starting at 8AM from Grace Coffee in Middleton! Beers to follow in New Glarus around 5PM.

Mark your calendars for the END OF THE YEAR DRAFTER RIDE, Sunday Oct 15th at 10AM.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO