Ahead of the Season

Thanks to Carl "Chuck" Beichel for sharing last Saturday's ride to Monroe.

Saturday at 11:30 a.m. four hungry, cold “Chain Link Cyclists”walked through the door of Baumgartner’s, one of the must stops when visiting Monroe, Wisconsin. Chuck Beichel, Mike Perry, Dennis Robinson, and Chuck Garrett had just struggled their way through snow-pocked hills against a cold northeasterly to reach their goal: Baumgartner’s with its delicious bratwurst, cheese sandwiches and hot soups. They quickly stripped off their damp outerwear and got down to business. The food was great and the service quick. Beer sounded tempting, but the boys figured it wouldn’t serve them well for the 26 mile return trip. They guzzled water instead, for during the 32 degree trip they hadn’t consumed much.

The Chain Linkers had left Freeport at 9 a.m. and had taken the eastern route up Henderson, Bolender, and Schueyville Roads. Nothing but cloudy weather, hills, and cold hindered their progress until they found themselves winding through the wood that surrounds the intersection of the road and the Jane Addams-Badger State Trail. Two large patches of ice forced them to dismount and “skate” their way forward. Then, with a little friendly sunlight they rolled into Monroe and their goal.

At noon, as the Linkers redressed themselves in the outerwear, they looked forward to the helpful sunny sky and the encouraging northeasterly wind. They were delighted as the wind pushed them down the western route: County P, County HK, Hulbert, Damascus, Scioto Mills, Winneshiek and home. But being Ahead of the Season takes its toll. Fatigue and muscle ache set in. This was the first ride of the season for Lightning P-38 rider, Garrett, and Perry was on his new Bachetta for the first time! Riding his Trek Pilot, Beichel was struggling with neck and shoulder discomfort. However, the highly conditioned, competitive Robinson raced off easily in his typical fashion and left his fellow Linkers to their work. The three others slowed to a comfortable pace and arrived in Freeport at about 2:40 p.m. Goal achieved! The Chain Linkers wondered whether any club members had made this 55 mile trip earlier than March 15, the Ides of March. Certainly it was a ride far Ahead of the Season.

Cycle Antarctica

We had yet another Sunday among the drifts, as Andrew, Chuck, and Dave turned out at Highland College. This winter, any day you can get out on your bike is a special day. So the three amigos headed west up Saben Church Road on a favorite 30 mile loop

At points along the route, Andrew managed to snap a few photos to commemorate the ride.

This winter, we've been doing more drinking than riding. Our Thursday afternoons have been spent at local watering holes as we bemoan the continuing cold and snowy weather. Thankfully the Guinness at the Fieldstone and Eilerts has brightened our spirits.