TOO MANY RIDER?

Mass of Minion humanity read to ride!

MULTIPLE BEER JERSEY WINNERS!

WISHBONE RUBBING ELBOWS WITH CYCLING'S ELITE?

4TH OF JULY RIDE?

B-ROD IS BACK!

Belo News
June 27, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi.- As dawn broke, yet again, sunny and cool over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was trying to shake off another short night. Sharkman had played with Banjovi for a private party the night before, making for the short night......

Dave Duggan, now "Cuz!"
Welcome the Nation, Cuz!

As he crawled from his Shark Bed to the kitchen, he clicked on the Shark koffee maker and checked his text messages. Nope, nothing there from the missing Mad Dog....what the...???

As our hero launched from the Cove, he wondered it anyone else would be making the trip over.

Before exiting the Cove, there was Reb circling in the street, followed by Yeti Boy! Game on!

But where was Nikeboy? A test the previous evening had given our hero concerning the bridge in Galesburg had left the impression he would be riding. However, the Sharkman had actually launched a couple minutes late and NB is never late.

As the three riders got to Helmer, there was new Minion X-Rod ready for back to back Saturday's, but when he didn't see Nikeboy, he wondered if he should head back. Sharkman assured him that Nikeboy was never late, but some times baled if it was too cold, too wet, or some other reason.

As the four made their way to Galesburg, it wasn't long before Nikeboy caught on stating he was just a couple minutes late! Sorry Nikeboy, and this was just the start of the sorries to come on missing Minions!

Flash Gordon was back!

The riders were able to get through the bridge into Galesburg and waved at the early morning koffee group as they rode to the start.

The start looked empty from a distance, but it was quickly realized that the parking lot was closed, probably for re-surfacing, and the Nation was gathering in the big parking lot to the east of the school.

Once again, it was a mass of Minions, just waiting to get started.

There were beer jersey's everywhere and Sharkman could not decide who had the best jersey, so he declared them all winners and they will all get an opportunity to buy a kup of koffee for Sharkman! Don't worry, there are plenty of weeks left in the season to buy our hero a koffee, you lucky winner you!

Virgin Minion Dave Duggan was on board and when the Sharkman introduced himself to him and realized they shared the same last name, he began getting started on his family history from Ireland. You never want to get Sharkman started on that as your eyes will glaze over and you might find yourself in a time warp that you can't get out of.

The Cheetah returns!

After realizing they were not related, and that Dave did not have a Minion name, they thought of calling him Cuz (cousin) as a shirt tail relative of our intrepid hero, the Sharkman. The other name considered was coach, as he is a coach for the Western Michigan Bronco's, but that was just too obvious. So Cuz it is! Welcome to the mighty Minion Nation, Cuz!

The Cheetah and Flash Gordon were back after a hiatus, and there were probably more, but Sharkman couldn't get to them all! Oh, the humanity!

Sharkman took a count of 25 riders at the start and then asked for A and C Group riders. Since Cheetah and Skittles were in the mix, he knew there was an A Group, and Nikeboy again, volunteered to lead a C Group at the cut off.

More riders continued to pour in at the start and the number of riders was not determined but it was estimated at more than 35!

Which brings to mind.....the Commissioner of Cycling has concerns about the ever growing number of riders so please remember.

Bro-Man was back after his flat tire
debacle at the Tour de Taylor!

1. Please do not invite riders. We will certainly NOT turn riders away, but if this continues we will have a hard time managing the number and wear out our welcome in the community around Gull Lake.

2. If you do invite someone (which we discourage you from doing), YOU need to be there when they ride and you are responsible for them. Please do not expect the Nation to take care of riders you have invited. They are your responsibility.

3.  Make sure all riders understand the ride and it's traditions! The Nation tries to make sure we don't leave Minions behind and some riders do not like that. Conversely, the Nation does not want to wait long times for riders to catch back on.

4.  And while Belo News is at it, the A and B group must also maintain these rules and not leave Minions behind!

Nuff said....

As the riders went by the Klutch, our Barista was counting with a look of fright in her eyes, figuring how much koffee she was going to have to have ready on their return down the Champs le Galesburg!

As the Nation headed north, the A Group opened up a gap before turning off.

Gazelle Girl! And, of course, Toesetter!

This is another no-no!  Riders must stay together until the A Group splits off, otherwise riders at the back of the pack may miss the cut off or are some way's back and cannot catch a wheel as the A Group heads out. Stay together until the turn off!

The B Group continued on and Sasquatch and B-Rod pulled our hero to his ceremonial first sprint!

Brewman might have won with
this simple "Beer Jersey" but
Sharkman declared all winners!
He can taste the free koffee
already!

The B Group and C Group stayed together until just after the Rt. 89 light, where Nikeboy told riders to follow him on the C Group cut off before heading back to pick up Dragonfly.

Unfortunately, two Minions missed the turn, then went back to find Nikeboy, who had already made the turn with Dragonfly and was out of site. We apologize for not realizing those two Minions were off the back and then took a wrong turn and didn't get to the Klutch until well after the ride. It is getting very difficult with the number of riders to keep track of everyone, so please make sure you communicate if you are heading back for someone or leaving the ride while on course.

The pace was pretty fast, but steady as the Nation moved around the lake.

At the Digital Divide, the B and C Groups were together and were expecting to see the A Group any minutes. There were so many riders, the train had to cross the Digital Divide in two waves.

Sharkman, Gazelle Girl and Toesetter went to the front to lead the pace line as the speed picked up. It was a pretty good pace line the Nation moved towards getting Gazelle Girl to her coveted GGG Spot Sprint.

Add caption

As Gazelle Girl got into position, Zyckmann made a move from out of now where that caused the Nation to get concerned that he was going to do the unthinkable! However, as B-Rod was quoted as saying later, "he pulled off a the exact right moment" and Gazelle Girl reached her....win! It was another victory for America.

And the pace line didn't stop there!

There was still no A Group as the Nation headed south! What the....?

For whatever reason, Sharkman went to the front with Toesetter and others on his wheel. The pace, though quick, was not the usual frenzy to the finish.

The riders went through there rotations and at the bottom of the final hill to the finish, Stryker Guy found himself at the front. As the rider in front of him mentioned that Stryker Guy was getting the hill, he immediately pulled off, leaving our intrepid hero, the Sharkman in the lead.

Sharkman dug deep and attacked the hill, but found he was out of gas at the top, though he did get a second wind later!

At the summit of the final hill, the Nation swooped by our hero and headed down hill to the finish.

Belo News has no idea who won, but B-Rod stated he was second by a half a wheel!

The Klutch was jumping!

B-Rod is back!

Actually, B-Rod was feeling so good, he rocketed past the paparazzi and tofosi on the Champs le Galesburg, ran into the Klutch and threw his credit card before Andrew and said, "I"m buying!"
Is this a great country or what!?! B-Rod is back!

Nikeboy came into the shop to report that their were two wayward Minions and they weren't responding to his texts.

They later got to the Klutch as Sharkman and Yeti Boy were leaving and Nikeboy was heading to the start to look for them.

Subsequent contact with Skittles later in the day, revealed that the A Group had a mechanical when Kiwi's tire flatted and none of them stopped for koffee.

Apologizes for losing a few Minions this past Saturday and Sharkman will work to make sure it does not happen again! We leave no Minion's behind is important to him!

You won't want to miss this Saturday's ride, for the start of the holiday weekend!

It will be a double header!

Saturday, July 1, 2017

Tony the Tiger Jersey Day!  That's right, get out your Tony Jersey or Kellogg Jersey and let's start the Holiday weekend with some cereal!

Launch Time - 8:00 a.m. - SHARP!

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Independence Day! Wear your Red, White & Blue for our Nations Birthday!

Launch Time - 8:00 a.m. - SHARP! 

Depending on how many show up, the Nation may do the Southern Route for a change!

Be there!

WISHBONE RUBBING ELBOWS WITH CYCLING'S ELITE?

Sean (Wishbones Mary Free Bed physical therapist)
George and Our Hero, Wishbone!

Belo News
June 24, 2017

Lansing, Mi. - Some of the Nation may have noticed that our own Wishbone was absent from this past Saturday's ride. The perennial Minion who has made almost every week this year, was not present because he was up hobnobbing with cycling's elite. NO, not Sharkman, he was riding with the Nation, remember?

No, Wishbone was up at the MSU Grand Fondo hanging out with George Hincapie!

Though, we here at Belo News think it was George Hincapie hanging out with our Wishbone!

Congratulations Wishbone on one fantastic recovery from your injuries.

It was just a year ago that the Nation was in the Richland 4th of July Parade to honor Wishbone who was in a full body cast and riding in a golf cart at the time!

You've done the Nation proud, Wishbone!

NATION SAYS GOODBYE TO ONE OF THEIR OWN!

The Nation was ready to say goodbye to Ox!

RIDE OF SILENCE FOR OX!

"A" GROUP WRITE UP?

J-DOG PULLS OFF HAT TRICK!

NATION ROCKS THE TOUR DE TAYLOR!

LUCKY ONE'S LUNCH WRITE UP!

NEEDED: "C" GROUP LEADERS!

BLOODY 'ELL 'UNDRED SAVE THE DATE!

Belo News
June 21, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - It has been a wild couple of weeks around the Shark Cove. Off the heals of the Tour de Taylor, the Nation learned that one of their own, the legendary "Ox" had lost his 2 year battle with cancer. Sharkman lost another friend a couple days after.

Returning Minion and newly named
X-Rod!

Our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was conflicted as to whether to call the ride off, as the funeral for Ox was on Saturday morning. As he pondered this conundrum, he began to wonder what Ox would do. Our intrepid hero knew that Ox would want the Nation to ride and Lava Girl volunteered to pick the old Shark up at the Klutch and take him to the funeral.

Game on! Win-win!

So as dawn broke bright over the Shark Cove and Sharkman launched into the rising sun, he was disappointed that Mad Dog was AGAIN missing. However, that Style Guy the Nation all loves, Nikeboy, met our hero as he rode out of the Cove.

Up the road, a returning Minion, Rod jumped on. Rod had ridden so infrequently he had not been given a Minion Name. Since there was already a B-Rod, and with C-Rod not seeming right, Sharkman quickly named the returning Minion X-Rod! Welcome back to the mighty Shark Minion Nation, X-Rod.

Once again, Sharkman found the start crowded with riders getting their steads ready, with more new riders and faces. Sharkman and the Editors of Belo News are really beginning to have a hard time remembering all the names!

Zyckmann was ready to rock it!

Another, infrequent Minion had returned who did have a Minion Name. Yooper was back and sporting a very cool decal of the "UP" on his bike. Yooper got the name because, well, he is a Yooper! The decal actually looked a bit like a shark! Win-win! Welcome back Yooper!

Also a semi virgin Minion, Danny, was back and was later named Braveheart by Skittles! Welcome back Braveheart!

Though there was a count of 17 at the start, riders continued to pour in all over the course and the riders were numbered at around 25-27. Riders joined on as late as the Feed Zone in Dr. Dave!

Sharkman welcomed new riders, riders returning and gave some brief safety reminders before launching.  Sharkman also announced that the riders would group up at the top of the col de Norte and he would lead them in single file, past Ox's house, who lives on the course, in a ride of silence.

The sweet sound of pedals clicking in resounded throughout the Galesburg morning as the Nation headed to the Klutch, then on to their Field of Dreams known as the KK-TdG.

Occassional Minion Danny, now known
as Braveheart!

At the "A" Group cut off, Skittles led a group of roughly 5-6 riders and later, Kid Doster came past the "B" Group and headed for the "A's".

There was an immediate "Mechanical" when Boatman flatted, just before Sharkman took the first sprint under a yellow caution flag.

Boatman reported that he was going to go to Ox's funeral as well so told the Nation go on. It was learned later that his second tube flatted and someone from the "A" Group gave him another tube. Sharkman was pleased to report that he sat next to Boatman at the funeral so he did make it!

There were no riders for the "C" Group as the Nation passed the "C" Group cut off and rode through the Yorkville Church/Kellogg Korner/Kountry Klub section where another new Minion jumped on by the name of Clark Johnson. Welcome to the Nation!

At the summit of the Col de Norte, Sharkman got the Nation lined up and instructed that they would be riding single file, until the Holy Rollers. They would be riding past Ox's House, which is on the course known as the KK-TdG and that he would point to the house as they passed in silence to remember their fellow Minion.

Yooper was back aftter
couple of years absence!

To Sharkman's amazement, the Minions listened to instructions as he rode a steady 20 mph pace towards Ox's house. Even more amazingly, the Nation stayed silent for the entire stretch of road.

As Sharkman got to the house, he pointed to where Ox lived and then pointed up to the sky and several (if not all) Minions followed suit, remembering a great rider and great Minion. A fitting goodbye to one of our own.

We leave no Minion behind and Ox will ride on with the Nation in our hearts.

The ride continued and the Nation rode through the Holy Rollers, the Feed zone on to the Digital Divide, where the "A" Group caught on with the Nation.

Skittles did a write up that now follows.....






Minion Ride A Group Report

Yoopers, Yooper decal!
Almost looks like a deformed shark?

Belo News
Skittles

The A Group split off in the usual place with Skittles taking the first pull in front of Ironman, Falcon, Wunderbread, and a New Minion we’re calling Braveheart, and two other guys (sorry, can't remember names), eventually collecting Kid Doster along the way.  The group discussed and mutually decided to take turns pulling instead of sprinting for each stop sign.  

Braveheart took the lead following the Group’s rejoining the regular Minion Route and held the pace up around, oh, I don't know:  warp speed.  Skittles found himself towards the back of the group and finally made the front going up to M43 and with that much rest decided to pull with everything he had to average about 25mph for that section.  

Braveheart pulled the group up until Williams Rd, with Skittles out of the saddle and taking the lead at full throttle up his favorite sprint point on the Minion Ride. 

The Nation on the move!
courtesy of Nikeboy.

The A Ride continued on with no lack of pace, Skittles, Wunderbread and Ironman each taking turns pulling along at full throttle several times but the star of the day was definitely New Minion Braveheart.  Each of his several pulls were so fast it was as if he were attempting to force the earth to rotate in the opposite direction and therefore turn back time.  Superman did that once.  

Scary moment on the southern tip of Gull Lake when Ironman began shouting “ WHOA WHOA WHOA!!!” As a minivan backed out of its parking spot and nearly took out the entire A Group before slamming on its brakes.  

Braveheart took one final, longer and even faster pull to get the A Group caught up to the B Group, just prior to the M89 crossing to average just over 21mph.  

Coming up to the GGG Spot sprint, Skittles was in the lead again, head down, riding as fast and aero as possible. He was shocked, I say: SHOCKED to see Gazelle Girl come (around) so fast at the G Spot.  With a gentle lead out from Skittles followed by Ironman pushing her hard from behind, she took her ceremonial sprint and all was right with the Nation.

It was a victory for America!

Thanks Skittles for your "riveting" review of the ride!

The "Sweetheart of the Peloton!"

The entire Nation, "A" and "B" groups were together for the final ascent to the finish.

A fast moving pace line formed up almost immediately after the Nation got onto 37th and continued to build speed (see photos) as they went into the last hill before the finish. The "A" Rider were at the front, the "B" Riders were holding and enjoying the ride!

It is unclear as to all those involved in that final sprint, but J-Dog, once again took the final sprint, making it three weeks in a row. The coveted Hat Trick had been accomplished!

The fans went wild on the Champs le Galesburg at the riders zipped up their jerseys and waved to the paparazzi and tofosi.

Lava Girl was waiting, with a change of clothes for our hero, who was like Superman, getting out of his super hero jersey and into his sports coat and tie for the funeral.

Sharkman, as well as Zyckmann and Boatman made it to the funeral on time to pay respects for the Nation!

Kiwi was back!

This should get back to normal on this weeks KK-TdG!

Saturday, June 24, 2017

Beer Jersey Day!

That's right, Bunkie! There hasn't been a Beer Jersey Day this season so break out your favorite beer jersey and wear it in pride!

Launch Time - 8:00 a.m. - SHARP!

Be there!

Gecko was back!

Lava Girl joins the Nation!

Wildman and Dr. Dave enjoying a kup!

It was a great day in the Nation!
Courtesy of Nikeboy.

NATION ROCKS THE TOUR DE TAYLOR!

Minions at the Tour de Taylor!

Belo News
June 10, 207

Mattawan, Mi. - As dawn barely broke over the Shark Cove, we find our intrepid hero backing the Honda/Sharkmobile out of the drive with his four banger rack on the back. Sharkman was the bus drive for several Minions on the morning and as he sipped his koffee, he headed of to Yeti Boys spread, the Bread House, to pick him up. He was waiting in the drive, ready to rock!

Next stop, Mad Dog's, who was also waiting in front of his garage door as the morning began to break even brighter.

Team Taylor Minions! Thanks guys!

Next stop was the car wash near McDonald's just of I-94 at the Galesburg exit, where Ironman was waiting with his bike!

Game on!

When Sharkman and his entourage arrived at the start to register, they were greeted by DJ, TJ Seiwert announced their arrival on the P.A. System! Wow! Kia Pet also ran up to say hello as did Mo Pink! Both Bounty Hunter, Nickhead and the famous Iceman shouted out greetings to the Nation! Class act, those Team Taylor Minions!

After check in, more Minions arrived and a group photo was taken while a number of the Team Taylor Minions continued to greet the crowd and the Nation.

Even Sharkman goes to the bathroom....
or port o potty. Whatever......

A bunch of photos were taken and though only about 14 Minion are in the photo, it was estimated that there were well over 20 Minions riding. Several rode the shorter routes, like Easty and Greyhound due to commitments, and others, like Dragonfly and Cheddar Head rode with different groups.

As the Nation pulled out of the start, several people, noticing the jersey's, shouted out to the Minion Nation as they passed by.

The Nation stayed together through the rest station in Decatur, before heading south to face "the Wall."

For those who are not familiar with "the Wall," as you ride out of the very flat terrain that is Decatur, and past Harley's Topless Bar, it is difficult to fathom the hill that lay ahead. As riders head south out of Decatur on this very flat road, the ridge ahead looms but riders do not realize they have to climb it.

TJ, the DJ, welcoming the Nation!

As the Nation made it's way around the final bend, the hill known as "the Wall" came into view and a collective breath could be heard as the Nation looked up at it. Though unsure of the percent of incline, suffice it to say, this is one step, long hill.

Minions said goodbye to one another saying, "see you at the top!?" As Sharkman stated he would watch over the rear of the peloton. It was decided that the Nation would form back up at the top, at the first stop sign.

As one would expect, the Nation splintered as they looked like fly's climbing a wall looking for the top and praying their hearts wouldn't explode before getting to the top!

It was after the climb that things began to come apart for the mighty Minion Nation!

B-Rod, having not ridden much since knee surgery, began to experience bad cramping in his legs on the climb. At the stop, several riders mentioned there was a rest stop ahead, so Sharkman told the Nation to go on and he would wait for B-Rod.

As Sharkman attempted to pull B-Rod, he could only get up to certain speeds before the leg cramping would start again. Luckily, the strong winds that the Nation rode against on the way out, were now at their backs, which helped.

These guys rock!

As Sharkman and B-Rod came up to a Stop Sign, there was Bro-Man, along with other Minions repairing a flat tire. Once the tire was back in operation, the riders moved on to the rest stop, where the rest of the Nation was waiting and Bro-Man was able to get a floor pump to top off his tire.

Right after the rest stop, Bro-Man's tire flatted again and B-Rod was still having leg cramps.

10-4 and some other riders offered to stay with both Bro-Man and B-Rod to get them to the next rest station while the Nation rode on.

Mo-Pink fist bumping our hero at the start!

Ironman and Mad Dog pushed the pace while Sharkman stayed back with Minions who seemed to falter, then get a second wind and shoot back.

It was at the about this time that Sharkman learned that the ride was not 100K, but 110K or 68 miles! What the.......

He was informed it was always this way, but Sharkman and many other Minions didn't realize this until about the 40 mile marker!

After the final rest stop, the Nation returned to the hills they fought at the start and those extra 6 miles seemed very long!

The Nation arrived back at the start, the crowds were great! Kia Pet ran up to let the Nation know they had saved some pulled BBQ pork for them. They were even greeted with iced towels to cool off! Is this a great country or what!?!

Bro-Man's first of 3 flat's!

The lunch was outstanding and as the Shark and his entourage finished up, 10-4 and B-Rod were coming in and 10-4 reported that after Bro-Man had his third flat, he stopped at a rest station and someone was driving out to get him. Sharkman did follow up with Bro-Man later in the week and he was fine, though disappointed he couldn't finish the ride. He was riding particularly strong on the day and still made about 50 miles, but like a true Minion, wanted to finish the ride! Of course, waiting at a rest station for over an hour isn't much fun either!

The Tour de Taylor is a fantastic event and we hope that even more Shark Minions can make it next year! Remember, it is for the kids!

Thanks Team Taylor for a fantastic day!

A cast of thousands help Bro-Man.

Wildman can put down the BBQ Pork!

This guy is no slacker on the BBQ either!

Mad Dog, Ironman and Buff putting it down!

Zyckmann's wood bike was a big hit!

RETIREE'S LUNCH RIDE

Belo News

Sharkman, Gazelle Girl, and Zyckmann enjoying the
ambiance of the Walldorff!

June 13, 2017
Gazelle Girl

Zyckmann Estate, Mi. - With temps approaching 90 on a partly cloudy Tuesday morning, three brave Minions struck out from Zychmann's Gull Lake Flowerland for a Retiree's Lunch Ride to Hastings.

So as not to be thought of as "old" folks in spite of their retired status, Zychmann set a peppy pace that got the riders to The Walldorff in just a little over an hour.

With a history of spotty customer service at The Walldorff, Zychmann warned us that we would be greeted by one of two waitresses - one named Surly and the other named Surly 2. Instead, we were greeted by a woman I might call Surly Wannabe. Perhaps she was formerly employed by Ed Debevic's - the famous Chicago diner known for their "service with a smirk" and a "side order of sass." When I mentioned I needed a bit more time to decide what cheesy, greasy item to select from the menu Surly Wannabe replied, "I'm here 'til 5." Ouch. I didn't dare ask her to tell me more about the goat cheese/pesto pizza for fear that her response would be something akin to "What part don't you get."

The beer flowed, as did the conversation. We're truly hoping that the pretty young couple playing a serious game of canasta at the next table wasn't eavesdropping. If so, surly the chat coming from these three "bikers" was a topic of conversation when they met their pals for some lively chess later in the evening. "You wouldn't believe what these old people were talking about at lunch today!" Retired Minions have nothing to hide!

The trip back was considerably more tame with our bellies full of dark beer and cheesy, greasy menu items. The scenery was gorgeous - is gorgeous - out that way. And the trio looks forward to another adventure some time next month. We'll publicize it here and would be delighted to have others join in the fun.

BLOODY 'ELL 'UNDRED SAVE THE DATE!

Belo News
June 21, 2017

Triple Nasty Ranchero, Mi.- Don't forget to "Save the Date" for this years Bloody 'Ell 'Undred (BEU)!

Mark those Shark Minion Calendars for Saturday August 12, 2017 now!

Sharkman seems to have lost his BEU Jersey and is ripping the Shark Cove apart looking for it!

Oh, the humanity!

SHARK JERSEY DAY BRINGS 43 MINIONS!

"C" GROUP HAS STARTED?!? WAIT, ....WHAT?

LEADERS FOR "C" GROUP NEEDED!

GADGET GUY RETURNS, AND  BUYS!!!

NO KK-TdG THIS SATURDAY! WHY?

BECAUSE.....

THE MIGHTY SHARK MINION NATION RIDES THE TOUR de TAYLOR THIS SATURDAY, THAT'S WHY!

LUCKY ONES LUNCH RIDE ON TUESDAY!


Belo News
June 4, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - As dawn broke bright and cool over the Shark Cove (has this been a fantastic Spring or what?!?) our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, bound from bed, excited to again, ride with his Nation after being gone for two weeks!!!

Iceman and Bounty Hunter in their
commemorative Team Taylor Jersey's
and photo bombed by Kia Pet!

Our hero was unsure who would be riding over, as he had not heard from Mad Dog and only Reb was a sure thing.

The morning was cool enough for arm warmers as the old Shark mounted his trusty steed and headed out. No sign of Mad Dog......was it something he's said?

On the road, he found Reb with an actual cycling jersey on! Reb commented that it was the only one he has, which explains a lot......

The duo had only one minor instance as Sharkman looked left, thinking a rider was coming up, and drifted to the right as Reb blew his nose to the right and drifted left, causing the two to use diversionary tactics to avoid hitting each other. Reb commented he wasn't sure whose fault it was, giving Sharkman the opportunity to blame it on him.

As the two rode past the Klutch, the Early Morning Koffee Group was there to wave their hero on.

At the start, it was a sea of Shark Minion Jerserydom! There were so many riders, our hero had a hard time counting the riders, but someone confirmed a count of 43 on the morning!

Nickhead was back!

There were a couple of returning riders, but to be honest, so many riders it was hard to identify who was who (well that, and Sharkman's ability to remember names.....nuff said....).

One thing that was noted was the Style Man himself, Squeaky, who rode in dressed like he was heading out on a Nordic Expedition. Stocking cap, gloves, jacket, which he shed at the start. He was one warm dude!

Sharkman was able to get a shot of the new, 5 year Team Taylor Commemorative Jersey on Iceman and Bounty Hunter, kindly photo bombed by Kia Pet.

After the group photo, with the Shark Minion Jersey riders up front, Sharkman did not have to ask about an A Group because he knew there would be one!

Sharkman tried to do another count, but it seemed impossible as the long, brightly colored train, began to roll to the Klutch and out to the "Field of Dreams" known as the KK-TdG!

The Klutch Barista was at the window to count riders, with a look of fear in her eyes, as riders just kept passing the window. Sharkman was working the crowd like he was running for office, as the Nation began to build speed, heading north towards the A Group cut off.

Name this Minion! He had a name, but damn
if we can remember it!?!

Approximately 10-12 riders turned right the A Group cut off.

Gazelle Girl, Toesetter and Sasquatch lead our hero out like a well tuned race team. First, Gazelle Girl pealed off, then Toesetter, than, on a downhill, Sharkman went around led out man, Sasquatch and motored on to the first sprint win on the day.

Some riders started to fall off, and there were a couple of minor mechanicals as the Nation crossed Rt. 89.

Sharkman shouted out to the riders at the back that he was going to lead a "C" Group on the short cut that comes up right after the turn after Rt. 89 and before the col de No Name.

Dot Dot Dash, Dragonfly, Rosie and Gadget Guy, along with Hoosier Boy, who was riding as rear guard on the day, followed the old Shark.

When popped out, just short of the Kountry Klub, Sharkman told them to keep riding while he waited at the Rt. 43 stop to let the Nation know the "C" group was up ahead.

When they arrived, several riders asked how he had gotten out in front when he stated he had now one a sprint on the B Group (the first and honorary official sprint) and now the C Group. He was on a roll!

Stingray was back sporting a new
"Stingray" tatoo on his leg! 

The Nation quickly got back on track and caught the "C" Group in the Holy Rollers and they came back together at the Feed Zone at Frona's.

As the Nation went through the Inlet and sat up a bit, Dragonfly mentioned some riders were off the back, so Sharkman let the Nation know and went back to look for riders. Fortunately, Hoosier Boy was on post making sure riders were not left behind, which is getting more difficult with as many as 43 riders on the day!

Sharkman shot ahead to the Digital Divide and saw the Nation going around the curve at the Bermuda Triangle of Flat Tires, thinking he wouldn't see them until the Press Conference at the Klutch!

As he waited for riders at the crossing, the A Group pulled up, so, he announced he had beaten them to the Digital Divide, giving him the "Triple Crown" of sprinting, winning a sprint in each of the three groups! Is this a great country or what?!?

Well, it is in Sharkman's head!

Sharkman saw his opportunity and jumped on with Iceman, Bounty Hunter, and a few others, with Falcon on his wheel. The A Riders rode like the wind and Sharkman held on like someone trying to take a dram of a 20 year old bourbon! He was riding on the rivets as he saw the speedometer getting to around 30 mph! Sharkman felt like he was flying when Iceman asked, "where is Gazelle Girl?"

PJ's Bro! We need a better name for
this distinguished Minion!

This caused Falcon to lose his head, and come out from behind Sharkman's wheel and head to the front! Meanwhile. Toesetter was leading out his main squeeze and the Sweetheart of the Peloton, to her coveted GGG Spot Sprint! It was a victory for America!

The A and B Groups were now together, with the C Group not to far back, as the Nation started to head south. This part of the ride was a blur to our intrepid hero, as he spent most of his energy shouting out safety instructions like a mother hen gathering her flock.

The old Shark always worries when he sees that many riders bunched together for the final sprint and this one was loaded.

The speed picked up, and up, and up as the very fast moving train headed into the final ascent to the finish. At the top, thinking the speed couldn't get any higher, the Nation broke lose like someone had thrown some meat out to a school of sharks as they descended on the finish!

Unfortunately, Sharkman did not see who took the final sprint (not that it is important on a fine, sunny day, like this) but rumor had it that J-Dog had repeated, but that is purely speculation.

Padre was back in the mix!

It was indeed a fantastic day!

Big thanks to Hoosier Boy for riding he sweeper position! Sharkman couldn't do it without you!

The Nation zipped up their Shark Minion Jersey's for the ride down the Champs le Galesburg as the tofosi and paparazzi went wild!

Of the 43 riders, only 12 stayed for koffee and the riders were pleased to find out it had been paid for by someone with a "Chain Gang" jersey! Is this a great country or what?!?

Gadget Guy had a Chain Gang Jersey but was late getting in after the indignity of flatting on the Champs le Galesburg. He can take solice in knowing that was the first flat we know of that happened on the Champs le Galesburg!

Gazelle Girl!
and Other Guy!
Wait, THE Guy!

SPECIAL WORD ON OUR MINION, OX!

Those who did come in to the Klutch signed a Shark Minion Get Well Card for Ox. Gazelle Girl lovingly creates these cards and the Nation is grateful for her creativity!

Some may remember that Ox and his son Oxicito had been regular Shark Minions until Ox began his battle with Cancer two years ago. Though he had been doing well, he has had a recent set back and is in the fight of his life, so please keep Ox (Stan Hurn) in your hearts, thoughts and prayers. 

The Nation leaves no Minion behind!

If you would like to send Ox (Stan Hurn) a card, it would be great! We would love to see his mailbox filled with cards from the Nation!

Send it to his home address at:

Stan Hurn
3808 Heights Dr.
Hickory Corners, Mi.   49060

Sharkman rode solo home, happy in a great morning of riding and a fantastic tail wind!

The Squeakman, getting ready to
take of the first of 13 layers
of clothes.

THERE IS NOT KK-TdG THIS WEEK AS THE NATION RIDES THE TOUR de TAYLOR!

This week, the Nation will launch from the TdT Start at 7:30 A.M. - SHARP! Be there!

Signing the card! Don't those jerseys
look great! Oh, the humanity!

Where is Wildman's Jersey?
Isn't he reading Belo News?

Gadget Guy bought the koffee!

NO KK-TdG THIS SATURDAY! WHY?

DON'T FORGET TO WEAR YOU MINION JERSEY!

Belo News
June 7, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - For those Minions who didn't read the above, the Nation is riding the Tour de Taylor this Saturday so no KK-TdG! (We can't tell the Nation enough times...no KK-TdG this week!)

Sharkman wants to see a "sea of Shark Minion Jersey's at the TdT, so get'em out for the second week in a row!

The Nation will launch from the start of the TdT at 7:30 a.m. - SHARP!

Be there early for a group photo!

We will try to stay together, but the pace may be at a B+ level for much of the ride, so keep that in mind!

See you all there and again, WEAR YOUR SHARK MINION JERSEY!



LEADERS FOR "C" GROUP NEEDED!

Belo News
June 7, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - Since Sharkman "started" a C Group on the fly this past weekend, the Commissioner of Cycling is now looking for 2-3 Minions who will lead the group, at least until all of the C Group riders learn the "short cuts." This may or may not work, but we want to provide, yet another venue, for those who are coming back from injury, are getting to a point where they do not want to go as fast, or are like the Sharkman, getting old!

The plan would be that the Nation would wait, as before, until the first short cut after Rt. 89, after Gull Lake High School. The C Group will take the short cut and keep going once they get back tot he course. This way, the C group shouldn't be caught until somewhere in the Holy Roller Section and should be able to get into the Klutch within 15 minutes of the peloton(s).

Once the short cut is known, a leader will not be essential. Sharkman will continue to do this until the C group riders know the course.

Also, we are getting to a crucial stage in the number of riders, so you are encouraged to not invite more riders. If the number of riders increases anymore we may need to apply for a parade permit!

RETIREE'S LUNCH RIDE ON TUESDAY!

SAFETY!

Belo News
June 7, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - With the large number of riders, the Commissioner of Cycling wanted to go over safety AGAIN.

1. If you hear someone shout "Car Back!" move to the right and no more than two abreast. This should be done immediately and not after you finish telling your story or joke! Just do it!

2. Communicate! Let riders know if you are on the inside coming up on them. Let them know if you are standing in the pack. Signal or look back if you want back into the pace line, etc.

3. When the Nation is in a tight group, you cannot make sudden swerves. This means if a pot hole hasn't been identified and you come up on it fast, you may have to man up and hit it rather than swerve and take out several riders with you.

4. Do not cross the yellow lines!

5. Do not turn left early and drive against traffic!

6. In the final sprint, if you are boxed in, you are boxed in. Stay on you line as you move to the finish. Sudden swerving can cause a chain reaction in the peloton when the riders are bunched up so straight ahead unless you know you are clear. Hold your lines!

7. Do not circle in intersections, particularly at the top of the Col de Norte while we wait for riders to catch back on.

8. Be safe! This is fun, club racing and not a Cat 2 race. The objective is fun and being with great people and of course, having the honor of riding with the Sharkman, hizzelf!

Is this a great country or what?!?