Wednesday, September 20, 2017

EASTY ON FIRE!

Even Easty's neon yellow knee warmers were on fire!


STROKER EDGES S.O.S. AT FINISH!

BROMAN RETURNS TO THE NATION!

DREAMBOAT PULLING OUT OF THE HARBOR!

BREAD PARTY THIS SATURDAY!

RETIREE'S LUNCH COMING UP!

GAZELLE SPORT MIGHTY MINION NATION NIGHT! 


Belo News
September 16, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - As dawn broke bright, and not as cool, over the Shark Cove, we find our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, ready to ride! After all, he had an extra half hour to sleep and to get ready as the start time had been moved back a bit earlier this year due to the cold Saturday's and loss of light!

Clothes selection was much easier on this fine morning and the Sharkman only needed some arm warmers to compliment his kit for the day.

Yeti Boy was ready as the old Shark launched from the Cove (no Mad Dog.....what in the hell happened to Mad Dog?).

The two riders picked up the flashing light of Reb as he met them on Watkins for the ride over to the start.

Once again, there was no one at the start as the three riders approached the front parking lot of the school.

However, Easty pulled in, as well as Rocket Man and Chad, now known as S.O.S.

A few minutes later, Gazelle Girl came sliding in to a very small, "Gazelle Girl!" Well, there weren't many Minions there! Where is everyone?!?

She was sporting a new "sticker" that Toesetter got for her and mounted on her bike without her even knowing. What a sweetheart, that Toesetter, she thought! Well, until she saw what it said......see photo below.

Broman returned to the peloton after a long hiatus and was ready to ride.

Stroker pulled in a short time later filling out the starting group.
Gazelle Girls butt, oh and the new name
for her bike courtesy of Tows Setter!

After a few photos and autographs, the Nation pulled out of the station at exactly 8:30 a.m. - SHARP!

On their way to the Klutch they picked up Greyhound and then at the Klutch, PJ, Broman's bro, jumped on making it 11 riders on the day.

Reb and Gazelle Girl pulled our intrepid hero until Rocket Man came around and gave him a wheel and a lead out to the first sprint. Sharkman took it at a scorching 22.5 mph! Whoa, what did he have for breakfast!?! He did comment it was the great lead out he got from Reb, Gazelle Girl and Rocket Man.

The ride was very mellow, but fast paced none the less. Yeti Boy and S.O.S. fought out the Col de Twin lakes climb and the pace really picked up in the Kountry Klub section.
Easty sporting his neon yellow
knee warmers. And they
were hot!

Easty, who was sporting his neon yellow knee warmers again, was particularly spunky and took some major pulls from Kellogg Korner to the Kountry Klub and throughout the morning.

As the Nation steamed to the Rt. 43 sprint, Sharkman was near the front when Easty went by and shouted out, "jump on Sharkman, we'll get you the sprint!"

Sharkman responded that he would do the best he could as he grabbed the wheel and dug deep.

Easty was on fire and led our hero out to take the sprint with Yeti Boy nipping at his tail! It was a victory for America and for Easty!

The Nation rode through the Col de Norte, the Holy Rollers and on to the Inlet before gathering up for the Digital Divide crossing and the subsequent pace line.

As all are aware, and for whatever reason, the Nation has always formed up a pace line after the Digital Divide. How this got started has been a mystery, but has seemed not only to have become a tradition, but a great way to work on team work, speed and pace line in general. Sometimes it works and sometimes.....well it just doesn't. On this gloriously sunny and beautiful day, on smooth pavement and under a tunnel of trees, well, it just didn't seem to work until the very end. Riders kept picking up speed, rather than keeping it steady, did not seem to want to slow down in the peel off lane, and generally much slower than normal.
Broman returns!

However, as the Nation reached the curve before the finish, East, a perennial leader on the day, shot out to take Gazelle Girl to capture her coveted GGG Spot Spring easily! Another victory for America and for Easty. The man was smoking in those neon yellow knee warmers!

For the second week in a row, the mighty Minion train moved slowly to the finish. Sharkman, getting concerned about how bunched up it was, went to the front and started to pull as best he could.

Reb came up and took over for a while and then Sharkman again. Where was everyone?

As the Nation crested the final ascent to the finish, a cast of thousands, well more like 9 since Broman and PJ had dropped off, insuring everyone a top ten finish, came around Reb and Sharkman.

It was a fight to the finish as Stroker came out of no where to nip S.O.S. with none other than Easty taking the third spot on the podium! Did we mention Easty was on fire?

It was another victory for America and for Easty! Oh, the humanity! Sharkman took 4th, which usually does not get reported, but hey, it is our intrepid hero, right?
Not sure what Yeti Boy was
talking about, but the discussion
was intense!

The crowds went wild on the Champs le Galesburg as the hero's zipped up their jersey's for the sponsors.

When they arrived at the Klutch, Dreamboat was waiting and had bought koffee for the Nation! Is this a great country or what!?! Thanks Dreamboat!!!

Dreamboat is being transferred to southern California for Kellogg (tough work if you can find it, eh?) and it was his last Saturday in the Nation. He had intended to get up to ride, but couldn't get his sorry young butt out of bed! Oh, the humanity! But he did make it to the Klutch and he will be missed. Particularly by the Klutch, who loved feeding him pancakes, which he put down like nobody's business!

Gazelle Girl debuted a new book that she and Toe Setter had been collaborating on after a conversation he had with our own Wishbone. Apparently, Toesetter makes his own lunches and does so by having a propensity to make "wad" lunches of mac'n cheese, canned vegetables, ground meat and various other items....a big bowl of "stuff" that is quick and offers copious leftovers. Wishbone exclaimed to Toesetter, "You should write a Cookbook!" and "walla!" there is one now!

Gazelle Girl was signing books when Toesetter arrived! (See photos of the cover jacket below).

Everyone stayed a bit longer than normal, as it hard to say goodby to Dreamboat. But Sharkman said he wouldn't say goodby, but hope to see you again soon! The Nation will hold a spot in the peloton for Dreamboat! Good luck in the new role and we look forward to seeing you again soon!

So, what about this Saturday?!?

Saturday, September 23, 2017

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

Be there!



























E' Big Wad Cookbook!














Another great Saturday in the Nation!




















SHARK MINION NIGHT AT GAZELLE SPORTS!

IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?!?

Belo News
September 20, 2017

Kalamazoo, Mi. - Have you put your RSVP in yet? What are you waiting for Bunkie! Don't you want to be one of "the in people?"

Do you like Gazelle Sports? Do you like getting a deal? Well this is for you, Bunkie!

Gazelle Sports is planning a Shark Minion Night on Thursday, September 28 from 5-8 at Gazelle Sports on Burdick in Kalamazoo. There will be food and drink (beer, hard cider, wine, pop and some appetizers). Minions will receive a discount on anything they purchase that evening.  Our own Nikeboy has been working with Gazelle Sports on the event and he will be inviting others.  

There is a rumor that the Nation will migrate from Gazelle Sports some time around 7:30-8:00 p.m. down to Central City Tap House for a nightcap!

Right now the guest list is looking like the royals of Miniondom so don't wait, get your reservation in NOW! Sharkman and Lava Girl, Mr. and Mrs. Yeti Boy, Gazelle Girl, and more! Don't wait! 

Anyone who is anyone in the cycling world will be there! Be part of the "in" crowd! Well, as much as being a Minion can be "in" anyway!

Previously, RSVP's were supposed to go only to Nikeboy who had to set a date of 9/1 due to his travel. 

However, Gazelle Girl has volunteered to take reservations up until 9/25! Is this a great country or what?!?

But don't wait! 

Oh, the humanity! This is a great country!

Get your reservations in to Gazelle Girl ASAP at joan.o@comcast.net 

So get those RSVP's in to Gazelle Girl ASAP, Bunkie!


SHARK MINIONS INVITED TO THE BREAD

LOVERS PARTY/FUND RAISER!


Belo News
September 23, 2017
Yeti Boy's famous brick fired oven!
Oh, the humanity!

Breadman Estate, Mi. - In some circles Yeti is known as The Bread Man.  Over 7 years ago he built an outdoor wood fired oven and has been cranking out Aritsan Bread and Pizzas for friends and neighbors.  Once a year he and Nancy host a giant party in his yard to celebrate the coming of Fat Tire season and a another year of successful baking.  Bread, cheese, meat, pizza and beer, yes beer, make up the menu.  This year an added attraction is BanJovi with the standard headliners.  This event is a fund raiser for the Calhoun County Trail Alliance.  Proceeds will go to fund maintenance on the trail.  All Minions and family are invited.  Bring nothing except an appetite and a check book!

   63 West Minges, Battle Creek, MI, September 23 4 pm.

Parking is tight, so get as close as you can, get your checkbook and come on in for the party!

You must RSVP and don't wait! Email Yeti Boy ASAP at and let him know you're coming: schweitzerdl@gmail.com




RETIREE'S LUNCH RIDE ANNOUNCED!


Belo News
September 26, 2017

Zyckmann Estate, Mi. - It is time for another lunch! You don't have to be retired to take part, Bunkie!

Here are all the details! 

Be there!




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


Wednesday, September 13, 2017

SHARKMAN WINS! TWICE!


Brewman in his MSU kit
 and Gazelle Girl at the start.
WAIT,....WHAT?


FOUR WAY TIE ON COLLEGE GAME DAY!


GAZELLE GIRL BUYS KOFFEE? 

WAIT, .....WHAT?!?

SHARK MINION NIGHT AT GAZELLE SPORTS COMING UP FAST BUNKIE!

MINIONS INVITED TO BREAD LOVERS PARTY!

FT. CUSTER TRAILS NOW "BI-DIRECTIONAL!

RETIREE'S LUNCH ANNOUNCED!

SKITTLES KICKS BUTT, MAKES NATION PROUD!

NIKEBOY CHECKS IN FROM ITALY! OH, THE HUMANITY!

Belo News
September 9, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - As dawn broke cold and bright over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was again, scrambling for what to wear. Yes, it was going to be another cold ride over to the start. As a matter of fact, the Shark Thermometer read 43.5 as our hero pulled on his leg warmers, wind jacket, gloves, etc. etc etc......
Yeti Boy, not looking to happy
with the cold weather!

Yeti Boy pulled up and the two riders took off sans Mad Dog (where are you Mad Dog? The Nation awaits!) and Nikeboy, who is touring Italy for like the 100th time. It is believed he was Italian in a previous life. And not Reb. Ah, the Fall season when football starts and parents with kids have sports.

The ride to the start was uneventful, but a bit darkish indicating to Sharkman it might be time to move the start time back.

As the two riders got to the bridge, it had been closed once again, but the riders could not determine why and simply rode past the "Road Closed" signs.

As they approached the start, there were cars parked in the larger lot, but it seemed to be for a youth football game. There were no riders waiting!

Sharkman believes this was the first time that he could remember that there were no riders waiting at the start? What could it mean?

As the two were looking at the electronic sign near the stop light on the corner, Gazelle Girl snuck in behind them and got a very delayed, "Gazelle Girl!"

Shortly after, Brewman arrived, wearing his MSU kit. Kevin, aka O.K.C. (other Kevin Camp but working on a possible different MNTBD)), in his Custer Cyclery kit. Not a college, but could be the winner on the day.
Greyhound looking fast in his NMU
Wildcat's kit!

Sharkman was sporting his Badger kit, but it could not be seen under his jacket.

Then Greyhound arrived in his Northern Michigan kit. So far, a three way tie on College Game Day, but Sharkman would be happy to tie, knowing he would be the lone Badger in the group.

A few photographs were snapped and the crew pulled out of the station with five riders......

Shortly after launch, Hutch arrived sporting his Western Michigan kit under his jacket. So the standings at this point were Badgers, Spartans, Bronco's and Wildcats! A four way tie!

As the Nation entered the first stretch up 36th Street, Kid Doster jumped on and shortly later, Boatman, bringing the ride total to nine riders. Was there an event on this day or did the cold keep riders away?

Gazelle Girl "sorta" led our intrepid hero to the first sprint as they seemed to talk the entire way until the last hill when Sharkman darted out to a torrid speed of at least 18.5 mph to take the sprint, with O.K.C. coming up fast on his left.

Due to the size of the peloton and/or the cold, the peloton seemed to stick together and talk. Brewman took the next sprint and Sharkman was so far behind on the col de Twin Lakes, was unsure of who took the climb.
O.K.C. enjoying a Botttomless!

The Nation motored through the col de No Name, Yorkville Church, Kellogg Korner, and Kountry Klub section with their usual speed and came together after the turn after the Kountry Klub, finishing en mass at the Rt. 43 sprint.

The Nation continued to pick up speed as it rode single file on Rt. 43, up the col de Norte, where they stopped only momentarily, and on through the Holy Rollers to the Feed Stop.

Kid Doster and O.K.C. did a lot of pulling at the front and if there was a Custer Cyclery College, these guys would have won on the day!

However, at the Inlet Sprint, the old Shark was right behind the two and didn't think either was going to go for the sprint. So Sharkman made a move from the back and only O.K.C. responded. However, he seemed to let up just before the stop ahead and Sharkman pulled it out. O.K.C. later reported that he didn't know where the sprint finish was, however, Sharkman felt he was being the good Minion he seems to be and let the ole Shark take it.

The pace line formed up after the Digital Divide and though quick, seemed a bit "herky jerky" as the speed did not remain constant. The riders coming off the line didn't seem to want to slow down and the riders taking over were taking the speed up rather than keeping it steady. REMINDER (learning moment): for first time pace liners, the idea is to maintain a steady speed when you take over the front, not speed up. Also, when you hear the "clear" call simply move to the left and let up to drop back.  Additionally, when you are the last rider on the inside, it is proper etiquette to let the rider coming back know you are the last rider."
Boatman in his Bissell University kit.


The pace line did deliver Gazelle Girl to her GGG Spot Sprint finish. She did go a bit earlier than she might have anticipated, however, O.K.C. quickly went to the front to pull her ahead of the pack as she then came around to take the finish! Another victory for America!

As the Hutch and Kid Doster had dropped off after the GGG Spot Sprint and the number of riders dropped to seven, assuring Sharkman a top ten finish!

As he was commenting on this, the Nation crossed G Ave. and began the assault on the finish.

Sharkman and Greyhound went to the front to try to pick up the pace and Sharkman enjoyed the jet stream that is the Greyhound wake. As a matter of fact, as the Greyhound decided move to the left to allow people through, Sharkman shouted, "where you going?"

Yeti Boy was making a move to the right as the Nation started to move up.

As the Nation approached the final ascent to the downhill finish, Greyhound came back to the front (YES, though Sharkman) and put in a hell of a pull at the front.

About half way down the hill, Sharkman decided to make a move figuring the Nation would quickly follow, but no....wait, what? The Sharkman seemed to time his move perfectly (or at least in his mind he did) and no one came after him! Sharkman looked in his mirror and no one was on the chase!

Sharkman took the tape with Greyhound capturing the second step on the podium! Thanks Greyhound! It was a victory for America!

The crowds on the Champs le Galesburg went wild watching their hero, the Sharkman, zip up his Badger jersey, grinning from ear to ear!

Gazelle Girl was so happy for her hero that she threw down all the cash in her cutesy DOPE pouch - all $10 - and shouted, "Koffee for everyone!"

Yeti Boy wasn't sure $10 would be enough and threw more money in! Hell, everyone was feeling so good that when Andrew tried to bring change, it was turned down! You gotta love that mighty Minion Nation crowd! Oh, the humanity!
The Klutch was rocking!

The group, though small, hung out at the Klutch for three rounds of Bottomless before heading back out to a much warmer morning.

So, what will happen this week?!?

Come on out and find out! There are only a few weeks left and Saturday is looking pretty nice!

New Launch Time - New Launch Time - New Launch Time!

Saturday, September 16, 2017

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

Be there!

SHARK MINION NIGHT AT GAZELLE SPORTS!

IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?!?

Belo News
September 6, 2017

Kalamazoo, Mi. - Have you put your RSVP in yet? What are you waiting for Bunkie!

Do you like Gazelle Sports? Do you like getting a deal? Well this is for you, Bunkie!

Gazelle Sports is planning a Shark Minion Night on Thursday, September 28 from 5-8 at Gazelle Sports on Burdick in Kalamazoo. There will be food and drink (beer, hard cider, wine, pop and some appetizers). Minions will receive a discount on anything they purchase that evening.  Our own Nikeboy has been working with Gazelle Sports on the event and he will be inviting others.  

There is a rumor that the Nation will migrate from Gazelle Sports some time around 7:30-8:00 p.m. down to Central City Tap House for a nightcap!

Right now the guest list is looking like the royals of Miniondom so don't wait, get your reservation in NOW! Sharkman and Lava Girl, Mr. and Mrs. Yeti Boy, Gazelle Girl, and more! Don't wait! 

Anyone who is anyone in the cycling world will be there! Be part of the "in" crowd! Well, as much as being a Minion can be "in" anyway!

Previously, RSVP's were supposed to go only to Nikeboy who had to set a date of 9/1 due to his travel. 

However, Gazelle Girl has volunteered to take reservations up until 9/25! Is this a great country or what?!?

But don't wait! 

Oh, the humanity! This is a great country!

Get your reservations in to Gazelle Girl ASAP at joan.o@comcast.net 

So get those RSVP's in to Gazelle Girl ASAP, Bunkie!


SHARK MINIONS INVITED TO THE BREAD

LOVERS PARTY/FUND RAISER!


Belo News
September 23, 2017
Yeti Boy's famous brick fired oven!
Oh, the humanity!

Breadman Estate, Mi. - In some circles Yeti is known as The Bread Man.  Over 7 years ago he built an outdoor wood fired oven and has been cranking out Aritsan Bread and Pizzas for friends and neighbors.  Once a year he and Nancy host a giant party in his yard to celebrate the coming of Fat Tire season and a another year of successful baking.  Bread, cheese, meat, pizza and beer, yes beer, make up the menu.  This year an added attraction is BanJovi with the standard headliners.  This event is a fund raiser for the Calhoun County Trail Alliance.  Proceeds will go to fund maintenance on the trail.  All Minions and family are invited.  Bring nothing except an appetite and a check book!

   63 West Minges, Battle Creek, MI, September 23 4 pm.

Parking is tight, so get as close as you can, get your checkbook and come on in for the party!

You must RSVP and don't wait! Email Yeti Boy ASAP at and let him know you're coming: schweitzerdl@gmail.com


FT. CUSTER TRAILS NOW "BI-DIRECTIONAL!


Belo News
September 13, 2017

Augusta, Mi. - Just in! Stingray reported the news all cyclist knew was coming!  The Fort Custer trails are now Bi-Directional and they will be changing on a daily basis. There is signage that explains the changes and what day each trail is set for riders to go in which direction.

This could take some getting use to, eh Bunkie!

Thanks Stingray and Hutch for the heads up!














RETIREE'S LUNCH RIDE ANNOUNCED!


Belo News
September 26, 2017

Zyckmann Estate, Mi. - It is time for another lunch! You don't have to be retired to take part, Bunkie!

Here are all the details! 

Be there!






SKITTLES KICKS BUTT, MAKES NATION PROUD!


Belo News
September 9, 2017
Skittles in action!
Tom Wolfe Reporting

Alma, Mi. - The Cyclocross Season finally kicked off this past Saturday with our own Skittles participating in the Avalon Pontoons Alma Grand Prix of Cyclocross (try to say that 10 time fast!).

Despite his Fourth Row Call-up, Skittles quickly moved up into the the top ten and eventually top five! Oh, the humanity!

Dicing his way through the many undulating small hills, a tricky 90° turn followed immediately by a 180° turn and many, many tight corners.

Ultimately the pride of the Minion Nation took his best result to date! 5th place in the Men's Expert Cat 3/4 Race! It was a victory for America!

Great job, Skittles! You did the Shark Nation proud! 


Skittles on the podium!

NIKEBOY CHECKS IN FROM ITALY! 

OH, THE HUMANITY!


Belo News
Nikeboy and his valet! We'd hate to be carrying
Nikeboy's luggage around like that, eh?
Hope he left a nice tip!
September 13, 2017

Somewhere, Italy - For those in the Nation who are not friends with Nikeboy on Facebook or Instagram, we are please to report that he and Nike Girl are cruising their way through Italy as Belo News goes to press. Checking in today, the intrepid global legend reported that he was in Northern Italy and since Sunday, he has covered 124 miles with nearly 13,000 feet of climb! (Yes, Bunkie, you read that correctly!)

Nikeboy went on to state that "nothing is flat over here! Two more days of riding then home on Saturday!"

Thanks for the report Nikeboy and we await your return!










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

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

DURANGO KID MAKES CELEBRITY APPEARANCE!

SHARKMAN SHOWS!


ANOTHER COLD START!

COLLEGE GAME DAY THIS SATURDAY!

DON'T FORGET TO RSVP FOR GAZELLE SPORTS SHARK MINION NIGHT!

Belo News,
September 2, 2017

Shark Cove, Mi. - As dawn broke cold and bright over the Shark Cove, our intrepid hero, the Sharkman, was having a difficult time prying his little shark body out of his nice warm bed. The old Shark wasn't even supposed to be riding on this cool morning, but got a pass as the famous Durango Kid was in town for a wedding and he just had to ride with him! Actually, our hero had partied a bit too hard the night before, making the escape from bed even more difficult. Our hero had been "over served," though in all candor, he was the one doing the serving.
Celebrity Rider, Durango Kid with
the Sharkman!

Sharkman quietly slid out of bed, as there were house guests at the Cove he did not want to wake, and sucked down his coffee like he did the bourbon on the previous evening, in hopes of feeling better.

What to wear, what to wear.......again, it was cold and the Shark Thermometer read 45 degrees!

Again, in the Shark Basement the Sharkman rifled through his bike clothes locker like Wolf King looking for that last bag of Doritos's.

Once fully clothed (the way he felt he needed to check in the mirror to make sure) our intrepid hero opened the Shark Cove Garage door to see Yeti Boy and the Durango Kid pull up.

The Durango Kid, long time Shark Minion and President of the Mountain States Chapter of the Shark Minions, was in town for a wedding and ready to ride! Always great to have this veteran of the Iron Horse in the mix!

As the three made their way towards the start, Reb jumped on along Watkins Road and begged to hear the story of the trio's conquering the Iron Horse in 2010, a story the Sharkman never tires of hearing or telling.....actually, he just likes to hear himself tell the story......
Geko was dressed so bright, Reb had to shield his eyes!

With the bridge now open again, the trio slid into town, past the Klutch with a wave, and headed to the start where riders began to gather.

Another Virgin Minion was in the mix! New Minion Kevin (MNTBD) brought Jackie (MNTBD)! Welcome to the mighty Minion Nation, Jackie (MNTBD).

Also, new Minion Brian was back and was named Rocket Man! Good thing he came up with the name as the Minion name "Specimen" was still in the hopper. Better hurry up, Kevin!

And of course, the Durango Kid was in the mix, signing autograph's and posing for photo's between making adjustment to his pedals and making sure he had a clean water bottle!

Gecko arrived on his pink colored Land Shark (maybe his name should have been Chameleon?) and wearing quite an "outfit." Does the Nation have yet another Style Guy?

Actually, he was dressed so brightly, Reb had to shield his eyes from the glare!
Virgin Minion Jackie!

After interviews and photos for the press, Skittles came rocketing in, dismounted like they do at the Little 5, and began to disrobe his heavy, cold weather gear for the ride, which was all caught on camera.

To the sound of pedals clicking in and Sharkman shouts of "Two abreast!!" the Nation pulled out of the station, passed the Klutch and rode on to their Field of Dreams known as the Koffee Klutch - Tour de Gull!

As the Nation approached the A Group turn, no one lined up and the old Shark knew it would be another B+ ride! They way he was feeling, this was not good news.....

Tan Man was pulling Sharkman to the opening sprint, which he took easily at a blistering 18.2 mph!

The mighty Minion Nation proceeded through the next couple of sprints, with Sharkman working his little dorsal off to get up the col de Twin Lakes. Not that he is normally good at climbing, but on this day it was like his feet were mired in sand.

The Nation got the unusual pass at the light on Rt. 89 and buzzed right through as the Sharkman checked to make sure all had crossed. Speeds picked up as the Nation went past the Yorkville Church, Kellogg Korner, the Kountry Klub and on to the Rt. 43 Sprint as Sharkman pointed out the land marks to the Durango Kid. Durango reads about the ride, but only get's to ride the course about once a year and looks at the course on the back of his Minion jersey. However, on this cold day, all the jersey's were covered with jackets and vest due to the cold!
Skittles doing his Superman impression
without a phone booth!

At the top of the Col de Norte, Sharkman was smart enough to shout "Moving!" after he got moving and went to the front. But it was short lived as the Nation sped around him into the Holy Rollers where they left their intrepid hero at the back, looking for some Alka Seltzer!

After the Feed Zone, the Nation got ready for the Digital Divide and the GGG Spot Sprint.

A nice pace line formed up, as did the speed, and the Nation was rocking to get Gazelle Girl into position for her sprint.

Skittles moved up very early and signaled for the Sweetheart of the Peloton to grab on to his wheel so he could lead her out, but Gazelle Girl knew it was way to early to lay it down! She was waiting for that sweet spot and knew exactly when she would make her move.

Timing it perfectly, and with about 100 meters (Editors are not sure on this as they don't understand the metric system) to go, Gazelle Girl took Skittles wheel, then shot out like a sling shot to secure the GGG Spot Spring! All was well in the kingdom!

As the Nation headed south, it was again a slow grouping as everyone jockeyed for position.

Sharkman, of course, was still feeling drinkified (is that a word?) - (It is now!) and was at the back and missed most of the action as Kiwi timed his escape perfectly and beat out Skittles and Tan Man for the tape.
Lava Girl with house guests Terry and Tom Mohl!
Welcome to the Klutch and the Nationon!

The fans went wild on the Champs le Galesburg to see their hero's, as well as celebrity rider, Durango Kid, as they zipped up their jersey's for the sponsors, paparazzi and tofosi!

Greyhound shot ahead and bought koffee for the Nation! Thanks Greyhound!

Lava Girl and their house guests, along with the lovely Toni, Mrs. Durango Kid, were waiting at the Klutch and were enjoying what they describe as an excellent breakfast!

They were also there to give Sharkman, Yeti Boy and Durango Kid a ride back, but Yeti and the Kid decided to ride back with Reb, but our "couldn't get enough koffee intrepid hero, Sharkman, took the ride!

Durango Kid taking questions and checking his phone
during the Press Conference!
You won't want to miss this weeks edition!

It is College Game Day! It is the Start of the College Football Season so get your favorite College Kit out and show your support! Who will win? Michigan, Michigan State or Western Michigan? Maybe Wisconsin? How about Purdue? Oh, the humanity!

Saturday, September 9, 2017

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

Be there!






SHARK MINION NIGHT AT GAZELLE SPORTS!

IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?!?

Belo News
September 6, 2017

Kalamazoo, Mi. - Have you put your RSVP in yet? What are you waiting for Bunkie!

Do you like Gazelle Sports? Do you like getting a deal? Well this is for you, Bunkie!

Gazelle Sports is planning a Shark Minion Night on Thursday, September 28 from 5-8 at Gazelle Sports on Burdick in Kalamazoo. There will be food and drink (beer, hard cider, wine, pop and some appetizers). Minions will receive a discount on anything they purchase that evening.  Our own Nikeboy has been working with Gazelle Sports on the event and he will be inviting others.  

Previously, RSVP's were supposed to go only to Nikeboy who had to set a date of 9/1 due to his travel. 

However, Gazelle Girl has volunteered to take reservations up until 9/25! Is this a great country or what?!?

But don't wait! Sharkman and Lava Girl will be there to sign autographs! Consider this Sharkmans RSVP, Gazelle Girl! There may be some post Gazelle Sports drinking at a local establishment! Oh, the humanity! This is a great country!

Get your reservations in to Gazelle Girl ASAP at joan.o@comcast.net 

So get those RSVP's in to Gazelle Girl ASAP, Bunkie!


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