2017 Dirty Kanza - 100

Danielle and I headed to Kansas last weekend for an amazing race.  The race took pace in Emporia, Kansas.  My goal for the 100 was 10 hours.  This is a gravel grinder race, so I took my Crux cross bike.  I have never ridden 100 miles on my bike, except for the road bike (14 pounds) on pavement.

The views were amazing.  The people along the way with cow bells and signs was nothing short of making me cry every time I saw those kids!

I went out fast for me.  I realized at the 50 checkpoint I was 3:40, so I called Dani to tell her I might be at the finish sooner.  

My ride time was 8:07 and elapsed time was 8:38. I refilled my three gallons of water!  I stopped twice for potty stop!  I climbed every climb where others were walking.  The guys really don't like that.

Rebecca Rusch came running up with a big hug at the finish. Jim Cummings, the founder of the Dirty Kanza 200 also put me in touch with a camera crew. Dani and I were interviewed and told we will be on CBS sports channel in July.

Travel was tough on Danielle, as she cannot eat much. She was my inspiration to finish!  Thank you, Danielle.  Next I am flying to MN to train for seven long days with my Leadville partner, Angie Rake.
Then we will be racing the Leadville 3-day Stage race end of July, and Leadville is August 12. I am really hoping Dani can be at Leadville.

Last weekend changed my life. I am happy. I am relaxed. It was amazing.  Sort of feel like stress is not an option, like taking a drink.