This month we feature one of our framed jerseys (and championship vest). It is from a race that is usually held this first weekend in June, when folks from all over the country and world congregate in the small town of Emporia, Kansas for the DIRTY KANZA races. The DK200 is the “Boston Marathon” of Gravel Racing and for good reason. It is competitive and it is really hard.
The Flint Hills of Kansas enjoy some of the best gravel riding roads in the country and the DK takes advantage of miles of them. In fact, over 200 miles, hence the name, DK200. Sharp edged flint rock roads make for treacherous conditions for your tires. Hills, hills and more hills challenge you all day long and even into the night.
It can be wet, really wet. It can be muddy, really muddy. It can be windy, really, really windy and it can be brutally hot and humid. Add the fact that there are only three locations over the 200 plus miles where you can get aid and you quickly see why this race is really hard. Of course, “hard is good” so when you add a wonderful race organization and the terrific and supportive folks of Emporia you get the makings for a truly spectacular race event.
We are proud to have several MMC folks that have competed in the DK200 as well as other DK races. Most notably, Harry won the 60 plus division of the DK200 in 2017, after dropping out the previous two years with mechanical problems. Anthony Casarona is a DK200 veteran as is Vincent Scales. Julie Lyon and Danielle Goold also “conquered” the DK200. To any of you that we missed that have ridden the Flint Hills of Kansas and endured the elements in the Land of Oz, we at MMC salute you!! Well done. Pedal Well.
