GREYHOUND FOUND! WHERE WAS HE???

ANOTHER COOL START FOR THE NATION!


MINIONS ROCK LOCALLY, STATEWIDE AND INTERNATIONALLY!

IS THIS A GREAT NATION OR WHAT?!?!!

SHARKMAN GONE FOR NEXT TWO KK-TdG'S? OH, THE HUMANITY!

The Nation, ready to rock!

Belo News
April 27, 2019

Galesburg, Mi. - The phone rang off the hook in the News Room at Belo News after the last edition went to press!

Tips and leads came in on the whereabouts of that legendary rider, Greyhound, faster than a bunch of vampires on the only giraffe attending a Vampires Convention!

Somebody please start taking the selfie shot!!!

The first lead came in reporting that Greyhound had been seen at Wings Stadium with Taylor Swift! However, immediately after, a report came in that he was seen having dinner with members of the Olympic Cycling Team at a Mexican restaurant.

Much later, more reports flowed in that Greyhound was at Bell's Brewery enjoying some lager. Oh, the humanity.

Subsequent investigative efforts revealed the facts that Greyhound had actually gone to the dark side!

Wait,....what you say?

Yes, it was learned that he had decided to go mountain bike riding at the Fort on Opening Day!!! What the.......!

Though apologetic, Greyhound did not have an excuse other than the wind and has thus been sanctioned by the Commissioner of Cycling and fined to purchase koffee for the Sharkman for the foreseeable future.......

Super Trooper was back!

Now, back to our regularly scheduled, though shortened story as the Editors of Belo News are out in Santa Fe, New Mexico covering Sharkman's riding and were under the gun to get this edition out!

As dawn broke cool and bright over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was ready to rock once again. Though as cold as Opening Day, this Saturday featured a bit less wind in a more favorable direction.

Mad Dog showed up at exactly 8:00 A.M. Sharp and the two riders found Reb just as they were exiting the Cove.

The ride over was uneventful, but full of the kind of banter that the early season brings.

At the start, the three riders were greeted by Gazelle Girl, Brewman and Super Trooper, who was back after a long hiatus, getting ready for the 24 Hour Challenge and in mid season form!

Greyhound was also there, looking a bit sheepish, but ready to rock.

After, yet another, failed attempt at a selfie, Sharkman called for the start and the Nation pulled out of the Station, knowing that Gazelle Girl and Reb would be dropping off near Gazelle Girls home as she had to be with her Mom and Reb had to get back to kids baseball.

Gazelle Girl holding court!

Toast was in great form and led Sharkman out to the first sprint of the day.

The winds were out of the northwest, but not enough to bother the peloton as it made its way around that field of dreams known as the KK-TdG.

It was obvious that Super Trooper was in great shape and spent a lot of time pulling the Nation through the course along with Mad Dog.

The Nation again, formed up a great pace line after the Digital Divide and played nice through the final sprint to the finish, which was closely contested to the end.

The Nation got another great quote from Toast when he noticed there were only 6 riders left for koffee. He stated, and we quote..."There will be a sprint to buy koffee with only 6 riders left!"

This was a sprint Belo News could report and it was handily won by Brewman who was doing the buying! Thanks Brewman!

Greyhound returns from the dark side!

A discussion on the whereabouts of Greyhound ensued.....

It was another great day in the saddle and you won't want to miss this weeks ride!

Sharkman will be gone for a couple of Saturday's but the ride goes on!

This Saturday, May 4, 2019

Looks like the temps will be a bit warmer so launch time will be moved up a bit!

Launch Time - 8:30 a.m. - SHARP!

Wait, is that a flip phone?

Brewman wins sprint to buy koffee for 6!!!

MINIONS ROCK LOCALLY, NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY!

Belo News
April 30, 2019

Shark Cove, Mi. - The news started coming into the News Room, hot and heavy, of the exploits of several of the mighty Minion Nation! And what great news it is!!!

Yankee Springs, Mi. - The first report in was that Yeti Boy, that "force of nature," and Sharkman's wing man, had finished just 10 seconds off the podium in his age group at the Yankee Springs Time Trails after having been off the bike for over 2 weeks!

What the .........!?!

This man is an animal! Though he was disappointed he didn't make the podium and could not be consoled that he was out by a measly 10 seconds, he was already planning his training schedule for his next event! Congratulations Yeti Boy, you did the Nation proud!

Is that beer in that Camelbak?

London, U.K. - Then a report came in from that legend of the peloton, Zyckmann (aka Fabio) who had completed the London Marathon! The icon of the biking world who lost his mind for a bit and decided to do another marathon was quoted as saying "damn, that's a long way! Those last 6 miles were brutal! Can't wait to concentrate on biking from now on! Will be pubbing it up for a week in the Cotswold and wandering aimlessly thru fancy gardens with Marsha trying to walk without a limp! See you in 2 weeks!" Congratultions Zyckmann, you did the Nation proud!

Mesa, Az. And in a final story, Stroker, the well known and world ranked swimmer and sometime Minion, did fantastic at the National Swim Meet in Mesa Arizona.

Stroker set a new Record (broke one of his own) even though he was the oldest swimmer in his age group! Stroker took a second, fourth and seventh in individual events!

Congratulations Stroker, you did the Nation proud!


BATTLE CREEK CITY BIKE COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES BIKE WEEK EVENTS!

Belo News
May 1, 2019

Battle Creek, Mi. - As some of the Nation are aware, our own intrepid hero, the Sharkman, is on the Battle Creek City Bike Committee and he wants everyone to be aware of some upcoming events and is hoping some of the mighty Shark Minion Nation will join him in taking part along with our hero!

https://wwmt.com/news/local/battle-creek-releases-schedule-of-events-for-national-bike-month

Battle Creek releases schedule of events for National Bike Month | WWMT wwmt.com The city of Battle Creek's Bicycle Advisory Committee announced  their collection of events Wednesday that are planned to  celebrate National Bike Month throughout the month of May.  The committee ...

http://battlecreekmi.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=813&fbclid=IwAR2ElHHH23QuoHKMFL7dPSJEvY8UMESUxr1lJcm0mvzKEAp_c9u1dzxErKA


NEW AND IMPROVED TOUR de TAYLOR THIS YEAR!

THE DIRTY DONUT RACE, SATURDAY JUNE 9, 2019!

Belo News
June 9, 2019


Shark Cove, Mi. - Hey Minions! Do you like donuts? Do you like riding gravel roads? Do you like team events? Do you like riding for a good cause?

Well, Team Taylor has something for you so listen up!

Iceman sent Belo News a message indicating that Tour de Taylor has morphed into something new and exciting... and it has the Nation written all over it.   Team Taylor has joined forces for a new event here in SW Michigan called the Dirty Donut race, so take it away, Iceman.........


Ride Bikes, eat donuts, have fun on the safety of gravel roads.  Start finish  US 131 Dragway in Martin. Date June 9.

While this is a race, it is meant for everyone...and any kind of bike can work.  The more you eat, the more time is deducted.  Some of the Minion Nation could turn in a NEGATIVE time!!!  Oh the humanity!

There are a couple other donut races around the country and they get upwards of 3,000 racers, so we are hoping this grows into something ridiculously big and fun.

More info at https://dirtydonutrace.com/

Proceeds still go to Make A Wish via Taylor G's Dirty Dozen Club.  So we still push money to that great cause.

What can you do?

Once the Nation has begun its routine,  could you post about the ride in your email blog and talk it up a bit in the peloton.



TOUR FOR TEENS SET FOR JULY 13, 2019!

Belo News
July 13, 2019

Richland, Mi. - Mark your calendars for The Second Annual "Tour for Teens!" !

We were unable to post the flyer, but it has been sent out with the Shark Minion Update!

The ride that has a Metric Century and a Half Metric Century, as well as Quarter Metric Century is set for Saturday, July 13, 2019.

This was reported to be a great event last year and there is an earlier bird entry by April 30, 2019.



Riders joining the Minion rides acknowledge the inherent risk involved with bicycle riding and by joining any Minion ride hold harmless any rider involved.

WHAT AN OPENING DAY!

HURRICANE FORCE WINDS GREET THE NATION!

The mighty Shark Minion Nation came ready to rock!

WHAT HAPPENED TO GREYHOUND?

ZYCKMANN TESTED FOR DRUGS?!?

NEW AND IMPROVED TOUR de TAYLOR THIS YEAR!

TOUR for TEENS RIDE INFORMATION!


Belo News
April 20, 2019

Galesburg, Mi.- As dawn broke bright and cold over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, bound from his shark bed and padded over to the shark port hole to look out at the street.

No rain!!!

Stryker Guy just off his HUGE
Barry-Roubaix ride!

The previous afternoon Sharkman had re-checked his weather app and it had been updated and was reporting rain for Opening Day!

Oh, the humanity!

He had emailed Gazelle Girl immediately to put her on point about the weather and she had responded late in the evening, probably wondering what all the fuss was about, as the sky's were clear and, well, beautiful!

Game on, Shark Minion Nation!

Sharkman obsessed over what to wear, as the wind chill at launch time was 31 degrees, but even more concerning were 15 mph winds, gusting to 29 mph, out of the north east!

Mad Dog was so excited about Opening Day, in a Mad Dog first, he was 15 minutes early to the Cove! Sharkman offered him to come in for some Shark Coffee, but he didn't want to warm up too much before getting back on the bike. Sharkman was relieved to see what Mad Dog was wearing, as the old Shark was worried about being over dressed! But both riders were pretty bundled up for their adventure......

"What did you do this winter, Gazelle
Girl?" asked Mad Dog!

The duo launched at 8 a.m. and actually had to air pedal to go slow, as the wind was pushing them quickly to the start and they did not want to stand around in the cold waiting for launch.

As they approached the Klutch in downtown Galesburg, the crowds were already begin to grow in anticipation of Opening Day! The riders also noticed an extremely tall rider coming out of the Koffee Klutch holding on to some koffee and maybe some pastries? He was in Road Kit and it looked like a Team Taylor Jacket. With that height, it had to be Greyhound and both riders assumed he was parked there and was going to ride to the start.

As the two rode on to the start, they found Zyckmann and Toast heading in the other direction. It turned out they were headed for the warmth of the Klutch and maybe some koffee. However, they turned back and took refuge from the wind at the front door of the school after they saw their hero.

Brewman was waiting in his car as the riders rode in and soon after Padre joined the group.

Gazelle Girl and her entourage of Toesetter, Stryker Guy and LK rolled up under the radar and didn't get a "Gazelle Girl" call until she had rolled to a stop.

Shortly after, PJ rolled in wearing riding shorts! Wait, what? Shorts! 31 degree windchill and 20 mph winds and PJ chose shorts?

Oh, yes he did!

PJ showed up in shorts!
Oh, the humanity!

But where was Greyhound? Riders reported that they thought they had seen his Tesla parked at the Kluch.....but no Greyhound?

Maybe he was waiting for the Nation to ride past the Klutch, where he could stay warm and just join on......

After presentations by a couple of State Senators, the Governor and the Mayor had given the key to the City to Sharkman, and Eddy Merckx awarded our hero one of his yellow jerseys the Nation was anxious.... Just another day in the life of our hero, the Sharkman........Yes, the Nation was ready to rock!

Sharkman made a few statements, including the fact he did not want to be given the first sprint AND that no sprint wins would be reported in April and part of May as riders got into shape and it was considered "Spring Season." Well, unless Sharkman wins a sprint. After all, it doesn't happen often and it IS all about the Sharkman......

Sharkman gave the call to start as the sound of pedals clicking in echoed throughout the school yard and the ones of fans, paparazzi and tofosi cheered the hero's on!  The train pulled out of the station at 9:00 a.m. - SHARP! (Sharkman loves it when a plan comes together!)

Is this a great country or what?!?

Sharkman still can't take a selfie....cut Toast right
out of the shot!

As the Nation rolled passed the Klutch, no Greyhound? What the........

Where in the world is Greyhound! Come back!

An APB was put out immediately!

The 11 Minions headed north into the hurricane force winds and as Toast was heard to say, "the Nation were all fighting for a spot at the BACK of the peloton!"

Sharkman went up and down the pace line, pressing the flesh and catching up with everyone like he was running for office.

LK took the front (always good to have a young rider to pull) and refused to take the sprint! Being the class act that he is, he signaled to Sharkman to latch on and quickly brought him to the front and then gently pulled aside to give the old Shark the first sprint!

The 31st Season was underway!

The wind was brutal as the Nation headed north! When Sharkman gave the "all clear" to cross G Ave. the wind and a wardrobe malfunction stopped half the peloton!

Zyckmann and LK spent a lot of time at the front and Zyckmann was so far out in front some thought he was being anti social! But he bought koffee and all was forgiven.

Styker Guy, just off of his 62 mile Barry-Roubaix run was also in mid season form, as he is in training to do the Continental Divide ride from Canada to Mexico, along with Easty in August. What are these guys drinking???

Sharkman was actually just behind Zyckmann and LK as they headed up the col de Norte, when he got blasted by that north wind and was actually pushed to the shoulder. The wind was brutal, but the nation would have it behind them on the way back to the Klutch!

Sharkman, celebrity koffee drinker Floyd and Toast!

As the Nation made the turn to the south, and the wind started to howl, the train started to really move! Pedaling became effortless as Zyckmann got even further out front!

After the Holy Rollers and the food stop, PJ mentioned major pot holes on the street the Nation usually uses, so they stayed on East Gull Lake Drives newly paved pave!

When the Nation arrived at the digital divide, Toast asked about the pace line and Sharkman went to the front to get it started. With the wind at their back, it was a "thing of beauty," as the riders took turns at the front and kept he pace at around 22-23 mph with some pretty easy pedaling. A major discussion began concerning why the Nation couldn't seem to create this thing of beauty, well, consistently.

No one had an answer, though Gazelle Girl weighed in that the Nation can only do a pace line clockwise.......

Sharkman stated it was because they are Minions!

More koffee, Minions?

As they approached the GGG Spot Sprint and with Gazelle Girl feeling comfortable, Zyckmann broke from the pack and began to lead the "Sweetheart of the Peloton" out to the sprint, which she took easily, to shouts of "It was a victory for America!"

The Shark Nation seemed so pleased with their pace line skills, they formed up another one as they headed down to the finish. The tailwind was a  delight and all loved how silent it got when the train got up to speeds above 20 mph.

The Nation played nice until they climbed the final ascent and then it became every Minion for themselves to the fast finish!

The paparazzi and tofosi went wild on the Champs le Galesburb as the riders zipped up their jerseys for the sponsors and waived to their adoring fans!

As mentioned, Zyckmann was quick on the draw to get his credit card out to buy Bottomless's for the Nation!

Thanks Zyckmann!

Zyckmann also bought a piece of pie and topped it off with some (well actually, a lot) of whipped cream! He did not provide any extra spoons. However, when you lead the pack all morning, in hurricane force winds, a rider does need to refuel! Right?....Right?......Right?

When you ride like Zyckmann did,
you can eat all you want!

A retired Kellogg employee and friend of both Sharkman and Toast by the name of Floyd was also there for the press conference where all the attention seemed to be on Zyckmann's podium finish at Barry-Roubaix, his upcoming London Marathon and that pie. And, of course, Stryker Guys upcoming Continental Divide Ride!

Sharkman and Mad Dog headed out into the wind for the return to the Cove and for lack of a better term, it was not a pretty ride but both riders made it home, finishing up their longest ride of the year!

What an Opening Day!

This is a great country!

You won't want to miss this weeks edition of the KK-Tour de Gull!



The forecast for the temperature is pretty close to this past week, so launch time will stay the same. It is hoped that the wind will not be as bad!

Saturday, April 27, 2019

Launch Time - 9:00 a.m. - SHARP! Be there!





NEW AND IMPROVED TOUR de TAYLOR THIS YEAR!

THE DIRTY DONUT RACE, SATURDAY JUNE 9, 2019!

Belo News
April 24, 2019


Shark Cove, Mi. - Hey Minions! Do you like donuts? Do you like riding gravel roads? Do you like team events? Do you like riding for a good cause?

Well, Team Taylor has something for you so listen up!

Iceman sent Belo News a message indicating that Tour de Taylor has morphed into something new and exciting... and it has the Nation written all over it.   Team Taylor has joined forces for a new event here in SW Michigan called the Dirty Donut race, so take it away, Iceman......... 


Ride Bikes, eat donuts, have fun on the safety of gravel roads.  Start finish  US 131 Dragway in Martin. Date June 9.

While this is a race, it is meant for everyone...and any kind of bike can work.  The more you eat, the more time is deducted.  Some of the Minion Nation could turn in a NEGATIVE time!!!  Oh the humanity!

There are a couple other donut races around the country and they get upwards of 3,000 racers, so we are hoping this grows into something ridiculously big and fun.

More info at https://dirtydonutrace.com/

Proceeds still go to Make A Wish via Taylor G's Dirty Dozen Club.  So we still push money to that great cause.

What can you do?

Once the Nation has begun its routine,  could you post about the ride in your email blog and talk it up a bit in the peloton.



TOUR FOR TEENS SET FOR JULY 13, 2019!

Belo News
July 13, 2019

Richland, Mi. - Mark your calendars for The Second Annual "Tour for Teens!" !

We were unable to post the flyer, but it has been sent out with the Shark Minion Update!

The ride that has a Metric Century and a Half Metric Century, as well as Quarter Metric Century is set for Saturday, July 13, 2019.

This was reported to be a great event last year and there is an earlier bird entry by April 30, 2019.



Riders joining the Minion rides acknowledge the inherent risk involved with bicycle riding and by joining any Minion ride hold harmless any rider involved.

OPENING DAY IS HERE!

OH, THE HUMANITY!

THIS IS A GREAT COUNTRY!!!

OPENING DAY THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2019!

LET THE 31ST SEASON BEGIN!

GAZELLE GIRL LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS!

TOUR FOR TEENS, JULY 13, 2019!

Belo News
April, 17, 2019

Shark Cove, Mi. - That day that every Shark Minion waits for all winter is finally here!

That's right, Bunkie! With Spring in the air, it is time to say:

Opening Day is  here!

Is this a great country or what?!?

Any Shark Minion worth their salt (whatever that means?) will want to be there!

After the photo ops (no legitimate Shark Minions wants to miss the Opening Day Photo Op, right?), speeches by the Mayor of Galesburg, a couple of Senators and Congressman, Eddy Merckx and of course, our on intrepid hero, the Sharkman, the train will pull out of the station at 9:00 A.M. - SHARP!

For those Minions launching from the Shark Cove, that means our Sharkman will launch at 8 A.M. - Sharp!

Opening Day Is Here!

Saturday, April 20, 2019

Launch Time 9:00 A.M. - SHARP!

As Belo News goes to press, it appears that the weather will be cool and clear, but if there is any doubt, check your email and the blog for any update. Remember, the Shark Nation will ride in the rain, but will not START in the rain.....well, usually......

Be there!

MINIONS ROCK BARRY-ROUBAIX!

Belo News

Zyckman on the podium....well, close!

April 13, 2019

Hastings, Mi. - The text, emails and photos started arriving in the News Room here at Belo News on Saturday afternoon! It was obvious that the mighty Shark Minion Nation had rocked Barry-Roubaix!

First in was a report for Field Correspondent Reb, including photographs, of the legend that is our own Zyckmann! The venerable Barry-Roubaix racer had finished 4th in the 60+ age group and was already celebrating with Reb, who had also completed the course! Nice job, Minions! You did the Nation proud!

Second up was a report from Field Correspondent Rainman, along with a photo of he, Steamboat and Iceman! Great ride, Minions!

Zyckmann and Field Correspondent, Reb!

Finally, a report from the legend of the peloton, Stryker Guy, who finished the 62 mile course on his mountain bike! He also reported, no photos!

"Wait, ....what?" Sharkman responded, to which the following photograph was submitted!

Quite fitting, Belo News thought, quite fitting!

Congratulations to all the Minions who rode!

See you all on Saturday!

Dreamboat, Rainman and Iceman at
Barry-Roubaix!

Stryker Guy enjoying his BR Water Bottle!

Volunteers Wanted for KRVT Trail Connection Campaign!

Belo News
April 17, 2019
From the Sweetheart of the Peloton!

Triple Nasty Ranchero, Mi. - Gazelle Sports co-owner and former bossman to Gazelle Girl, Chris Crowell, is looking for people to help with the campaign to connect the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail from Galesburg to the Battle Creek Linear Park Trail. Volunteers would attend a few meetings, help identify and solicit donors, and participate in building community attention to the trail.

Any interested parties should call or email Gazelle Girl - 665-4555 / joan.o@comcast.net

If it’s easier for you to get your hands on money than it is to come up with time... you can donate to this cool cause here:

https://krvt.networkforgood.com/projects/69682-2019-capital-campaign-to-complete-the-krvt

Thank you!!!
GG

TOUR FOR TEENS SET FOR JULY 13, 2019!

Belo News
July 13, 2019

Richland, Mi. - Mark your calendars for The Second Annual "Tour for Teens!" !

We were unable to post the flyer, but it has been sent out with the Shark Minion Update!

The ride that has a Metric Century and a Half Metric Century, as well as Quarter Metric Century is set for Saturday, July 13, 2019.

This was reported to be a great event last year and there is an earlier bird entry by April 30, 2019.



Riders joining the Minion rides acknowledge the inherent risk involved with bicycle riding and by joining any Minion ride hold harmless any rider involved.

WHERE HAS SHARKMAN BEEN ALL WINTER?!?

MINIONS RIDING MELTING MAN/BARRY-ROUBAIX!

OPENING DAY, SATURDAY APRIL 20, 2019!

Sharkman on the trails at La Tierra, New Mexico!

LATEST OPENING DAY ON RECORD!

SASQUATCH IN EARLY SEASON TRACK TRAINING???

Belo News
March 19, 2019

Shark Cove, Mi. - So, is there going to be an Opening Day?

Where in the world is Sharkman!

Inquiring minds want to know and if the Nation is anything, it is inquiring!

What has our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, been up to this winter!

The Great Moultini and our hero in New Mexico!

Are there conflicts with travel, Melting Man, Barry Roubaix?!?

Oh, yes there are!

Our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, has been a busy shark!

Let's start with Sharkman's winter!

After spending 4 weeks in New Mexico for the holiday's, with a 5 day side trip to California, doing some fantastic mountain biking, Sharkman and Lava Girl returned to the Shark Cove in the early days of January to find very warm weather here in Michigan!

Sharkman loves winter and was very disappointed there was no snow!

But Sharkman tried to make the best of it!

Sharkman and Lava Girl in the mountains.

Being not only warm, but dry, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, and his wingman Yeti Boy got in some great fat tire riding out at the Fort until the snow finally arrived in Mid January!

Once the snow was here, the two indulged in snowshoeing and cross country skiing most days! Actually, they had a record number of miles on the both skis and snowshoes!

As mentioned, Sharkman loves winter so it wasn't enough from his perspective, so he and  Lava Girl headed up to the U.P. for a few days to snowshoe, photograph Snowy Owls and to do the hike to the Eben Ice Caves!

It was a fantastic 5 days and Sharkman is in love with the U.P.!

Lava Girl? Not so much......

Sharkman and Yeti Boy snowshoeing!

Is his a great country or what?!?

A week after returning home, the duo headed down to Cincinnati to see Hamilton with some friends!

This is a great country!

Then March hit and the old Shark wasn't ready for it! Normally he is out in Santa Fe and will be going later in May.

He was not happy about the rain, freeze, slush, freeze, ice, slush, thaw and refreeze of the first couple of weeks of March! It seemed like all he was doing was riding the trainer in the basement and playing a little Pickle Ball once a week.

Because of all this, our intrepid leader has had a difficult time of getting psyched up for Opening Day!

There are also a few races coming up with Minions planning to ride, like Melting Man this weekend and Barry-Roubaix on April 13. With Sharkman gone April 6, the only date left was Saturday, April 20, 2019 for Opening Day!

Sharkmans shot of a Snowy Owl!

Oh, the humanity!

Lava Girl and Sharkman hiking to the
Eben Ice Caves.

The latest start ever for the mighty Shark Minion Nation, but a start none the less.

Some have mentioned they can use the extra weeks to get into bike shape, others will be in great shape after doing Melting Man and/or Barry-Roubaix!

Opening Day will be on the Saturday of Easter Weekend but it is hoped a lot of the Nation will be home for the Holiday and able to make it out for a great Saturday morning start to the season.

Skittles has done an early recon of the Nations "Field of Dreams"and reported that there was nothing of note on the Tour de Gull course, though Sharkman's experience doing an occasional ride to Galesburg and back has revealed some major pot holes!

Our hero on the Eben Ice Caves!

Opening Day will be a great opportunity to enjoy an easy ride, catch up on what everyone has been doing all winter, and just being back on the road.

As has been past practice, Belo New will not report sprints, wins, etc, until late May/early June. It will be Spring Season through most of May.

An email reminder with launch time will go out the Thursday morning before April 20, 2019.

Get ready! It is coming! The Day every Minion awaits!

Opening Day, Saturday, April 20, 2019!

Be there!

Join the Nation for the 31st season of our own Sharknedo!

And don't forget your Shark Jersey!

This IS a great country!!!


EARLY SEASON TRAINING???

Belo News
March 19, 2019
Lexus Velodrome

Sasquatch looking fit for 2019!
Are you ready?

Detroit, Mi. - So what do Minions do to get ready for the season you ask?

Well legendary Minion, Sasquatch, headed over to the Lexus Velodrome in Detroit to train and watch some racing! The regular Minion reported that it was not only fun, but gave him an appreciation of how fast those track riders are!

Is this a great country or what!?!

Lexus Velodrome in Detroit!

The Nation awaits Sasquatches return on Opening Day!








Riders joining the Minion rides acknowledge the inherent risk involved with bicycle riding and by joining any Minion ride hold harmless any rider involved.

IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?!?

IN LIEU OF ICEMAN RIDE/PARTY ROCKS PLAYERS!

NO SADDLE? CHECK! 

Sharkman celebrating 30 years of Saturday morning rides!

BEER LOADED CAMELBAK? CHECK!

"LET'S RIDE!"

SHARK BOWL MANIA!!!

FINAL SEASON STANDINGS!

THANKS FOR A FANTASTIC 30TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON!!!

Belo News
November 4, 2018

Augusta, Mi. - Oh, what a season!

As dawn broke over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was sleeping in for a change.

The start time for this day's ride would be much later and out at the Fort.

Please note Zyckmann's missing saddle!
Oh, the humanity!

It had been quite a 30th Anniversary Season, topped of with a special edition mighty Shark Minion Nation kit, Sharkman Birthday, and the fact that Sharkman had finished first for the 30 year in a row? Well, that is why he is the Nation's hero! (See final season standings)

4 years ago, after what has become known as the Mudman Year at the Iceman, Sharkman and Gazelle Girl decided that the Iceman Cometh had become a bit too "corporate" and they decided to have an In Lieu of Iceman Ride/Party at the Fort, followed by fun at Players in Augusta. This gave an opportunity to those who did not take part in the Iceman Cometh.

As a matter of fact, the Party after the Iceman was what had seemed to change over the years and it was decided that the Nation could have it's own party at Player and not have to drive for 4 hours to get there!

At 2:00 p.m. - SHARP! a hardy few Minions, toed the line at the Fort Custer Trail head. Gazelle Girl, Zyckmann, Hoosier Boy, Reb, PsychoCross, and Sharkman we ready to rock after a few start photos were taken by the paparazzi.

Zyckmann is somewhat legendary for riding the Iceman with certain, self imposed challenges. One year he rode with no saddle (feeling that if he could not sit he would ride harder and faster) and another year with a Camelbak filled with beer (no one is completely sure of his reason for this one other than it was a great idea!).

In remembrance of these legendary feats of daring, Zyckmann decided to go for the double header of cycling challenges and do both at the same time on this beautiful fall afternoon!

Oh, the humanity!

Sharkman only worried that after too many sips on that Camelbak, he may forget he had removed his saddle!

Ready to rock the trails!

The group headed out on the Red (in reverse) with Sharkman at the rear, protecting the peloton and keeping any emergency vehicles off their butts. Sharkman does not like "tailgating" when mountain biking.

Additionally, Sharkman thought it pretty funny to watch Zyckmann attempting the double feat of keeping his butt from hitting the seat post and trying to sip from his Camelbak at the same time!

After traversing the Red, with several stops to discuss what should be placed in Zyckmann's seat post, the group decided they had enough time to do, what has come to be known as, "The Sharkman Loop."

The "Sharkman Loop" is a ride of the Crazy Beaver to the start of the Green, over to the Trenches and back to the trail head.

Always a fun jaunt.

Reb sporting the latest in
cycling attire!

The group came back to the trail head for finish photos and adult beverages. PsychoCross decided he needed more laps and headed out again, as Hoosier Boy decided he needed to warm his feet, but not his legs, and he and Zyckmann got in a discussion of which Minions got their names on the back of the Anniversary Jersey.

It was then time to head over to Players where the Waitress asked if the group was the Sharkman Group? Oh, the humanity!

Spouses and other riders began to pour in with Wildman and Mrs. Wildman (Gwen), Sasquatch, Toesetter and Mrs. Zyckmann (Marsha) and of course, Lava Girl.

PsychoCross arrived late, after riding an additional lap, complete with his Banjovi Tee! Is this a great country or what?!?


The big surprise for our intrepid hero on this day, was a gift from Zyckmann in celebration of 30 years of Miniondom!

THANK YOU ZYCKMANN!

Sharkman was very impressed with the wrapping and whipped out his pocket knife (which was apparently impressive to the audience) to try to gently cut the wrapping away. However, once he learned from Zyckmann that it was newpaper wrap from the NY Times (who knew, it looked so good!) Sharkman tore into the wrapper like it was the last Doritos in the bag!

What was in the beautifully wrapped box, you ask?

Sharkman was delighted to find a.....ta da! Shark Bowl! is this a great country or what?!?

Take a look at that photo! Everyone wanted to have their photo taken with this VERY unique and now coveted (that's right Bunkie, get your own!) Shark Bowl!

Sharkman could hardly contain his excitement and couldn't wait to fill the unique piece of sculpture with cereal!

Or  better yet, ice cream!

Oh, the humanity, this is a great country!

PsychoCross ready to rock it!

After numerous beers, a big chicken burrito (Players has great food!) and a lot of laughs, the Nation bid adieu to the 30th year of the mighty Minion Nation! And what a season it was!

On to year 31! It was a fantastic season and thanks to each and every Shark Minion!

Sharkman feels blessed to have you all in his Shark life!

God bless and see you all next season!

Let the photos tell the story!

Zyckmann showing off his
jersey, before removing his
saddle!

Not to be outdone, Hoosier Boy and his
jersey, sans tights! Oh, the humanity!

Gazellen Girl with her beloved Ford
Taurus, covering the bird poop!

Post ride frivolity. Note Zyckmann still sipping
from his Camelback!

Hoosier Boy enjoying a beverage with
cold feet.

Just a better view of Hoosier Boy's
foot wear!

Seriously, it was actually pretty
nice out. Reb just likes the look!

Names on the jersey were a big topic.

A better look......

Sharkman's favorite spot!
He does love his koffee!

The gang was there at Players!
Gazelle Girl, Wildman and Mrs. Wildman (Gwen) and
Sasquatch!

"I have something for you, Sharkman!"
"Yes!" Sharkman responded!

Mrs. Zyckmann (Marsha) and Toesetter!

Sharkman and his pocket knife, which was a big hit!

Sharkman still cutting away on the wrapping!

Sharkman and Lava Girl loving that wrapping!

Shark Bowl!
Is this a great country or what?!?

"No, you can't have my Shark Bowl, Lava Girl!
Get your own!"

Everyone wanted a shot with THE
Shark Bowl!

Shark Bowl!

Thanks Psycho for the unsolicated
plug for Banjovi! You rock!

FINAL SEASON STANDINGS!

Belo News
November 4, 2018

Shark Cove, MI. - The final season standings were announce for the 30th Anniversary Year. In a season marked by the most rain outs and weather related cancellations in Shark Minion history!

But what a great season and as previously reported, Sharkman swept the season once again, as he has for the past 30 years!

After all, he is a legend in his own mind!

And always remember, it is ALWAYS about the Sharkman!

All for one and that one is THE SHARKMAN!

Viva Bikes!

FINAL SEASON STANDINGS!

1st  Sharkman
2d   Some Shark Minion
3rd  Gazelle Girl
4th  Some other Shark Minion
5th  Sharkman couldn't remember
6th  Sharkman
7th  That Minion whose name Sharkman can't remember.....
8th  Mighty Mouse
9th  Zyckmann
10th the rest of the mighty Shark Minion Nation!

See you all next year!

Riders joining the Minion rides acknowledge the inherent risk involved with bicycle riding and by joining any Minion ride hold harmless any rider involved.