Some "Killer" Gravel Approaches

Many a race on the east coast of the U.S. has been canceled or rescheduled due to do weather this winter and early spring. But on the map, if you moved to the left and up, you'll find yourself in Michigan. Home of snow, ice and bitter temps for 10 months of the year. At least I think that's true? Yeah, it's true I saw it on the Internet. Yeah, on the Internet, on Danielle Musto's blog, where 90% of all photos on her blog have her in layers and layers of wool and ski goggles to ride! Anyway, enough of my "facts" about Michigan, and on to a REAL fact about Michigan- The Barry Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race.

The Barry-Roubaix race KNOWS that there very well there could be ice, snow, slush and bitter winds. But I would be willing to bet that the 400+ cycling mad upper mid west racers will not have to worry about a cancellation due to snow and ice. Some MIGHT actually be disappointed if there's not! On the bright side, it could be dry and sunny! Then racers will ONLY have to deal with racing 65 miles and 2,200' of climbing (depending on class), on gravel roads. Either way, it will hurt jusssst a bit.

I mean just look at the name of the race. Just to be safe they add the word "killer" to the title. The word Roubaix is usually enough for most races to convey that it just might suck in a nasty ass weather, beat you up Paris-Roubaix sort of way. If a race director adds a word like "killer" in there, well that is their way of putting a second exclamation mark at the end of the phrase "Don't bitch to me that it was too tough, you were warned!!" LOL!

The Barry-Roubaix is approaching quickly and going down on March 27th in Middleville, MI. There is no field limit and a variety of classes to choose from. Elite men and women will be racing 65 miles for a sweet $350 1st place prize (2nd $250, 3rd $150). Damn cool considering Elite entries are only $45!

Very sweet limited edition hand printed race poster designed by Dan Clark.
Available for purchase- Check out Barry-Roubaix.com

For more information check out barry-roubaix.com and keep an eye on xxcmag.com, you just might see some coverage in the digital (or print!) pages of XXC in the coming weeks!

Good luck to the folks who will be racing this one.

Jason Mahokey
xxcmag.com