Ragnarök 105

Be Careful Out There

2012-01-24T04:55:00.000-08:00

Some of the areas the 'rok goes through are very "squatchy". Keep your eyes peeled!

Hmmmmmm

2012-01-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all of the comments! It's always to get some constructive discussion going.

Really... thanks for the comments. It's great to see how excited people are to be involved with our race. Or how much people would like ride... just a few thoughts... and try not to take anything personally...

First off... Here is the deal... believe it or stuff it the majority of the riders in the race were in fact pulled out of a regulation sized grocery bag (paper) randomly. Seriously.

Secondly.... these races are not even true "races", at least that isn't our intent. Yes, any time a group of people ride bikes together there will be some racing... but these events are meant as endurance challenges. Yes we give out a rock (yes, our trophy is a rock) to the winners. Yeehaw. Your name also is at the top of one of our blog posts for ever!!! Ooooo boy! These races are meant to be fun, low key things... if you are hot headed enough to be all crazy on a blog because of these races then I'd be willing to venture a guess that you potentially are *edited* more suited to 24 hour races, or 12 hour races (WEMS events?).

We also make MAD bank... entry fees have skyrocketed all of the way to $0.00. Just think of all of the extra money we could make if we just opened the race up! It's a free race.

Hmmmm what else. Oh... I'd be glad to offer up some tips on what goes into a pretty sweet gravel course. These tips could come in handy when you start your own race that will undo all of the injustices done by our race. Seriously, if we can put on an event, anyone can.

See... it is our race. And we will run our race how we see fit (for the enjoyment and safety of the riders that show up). If you can't handle not being in a free race (that has the route posted either by us, or people on Map My Ride once it is over) then don't send in a postcard (or envelope, or slip of paper, or whatever it is that people send in).

Feel free to comment and disagree with how we are doing it, I don't mind... I don't think that Jake or Larry really mind either. What is frustrating is name-calling/swearing/etc. without any accountability.

Thanks.... Isaac

Results of the drawing

2012-01-12T07:30:00.000-08:00

Below is the list of those riders that were drawn for the event, followed by the first 20 reserves. We had over 200 entrants this year, which is good to see, but it makes it tough to turn that many folks away.
If your name was drawn and you cannot attend, let us know right away so we can notify the next person on the reserves list. Once we go past the deadline we expect everyone on the list to show up on race day, since you are taking a spot that someone else would have gladly taken.
If we have your name wrong, please let us know.

Riders drawn
	Abby Ruess
	Al Iverson
	Alix Magner
	Allen Sanborn
	Allison Kelly
	Andrea Cohen
	Ben Doom
	Ben Miller
	Ben Oney
	Bill Nelson
	Bob Shepard
	Brandon Manske
	Brandt Elson
	Brendan Moore
	Brett Stepanik
	Brett Swenson
	Brian Dukek
	Bryan Cochran
	Charlie Farrow
	Charly Tri
	Christine Carragee
	Dan Dittmer
	Dan Gold
	Dan Utoft
	Dave Cizmas
	David Praman
	David Schultz
	Death Rider
	Denise Ward
	Dennis Grelk
	Devin Curran
	Drew Wilson
	Ed Boltz
	Eddie Karow
	Grant Braasch
	Heath Weisbrod
	Hurl Everstone
	James Bialas
	Jay Pee
	Jeffery Penman
	Jeremy Kershaw
	Jeremy Koenig
	Jerry Wright
	Jessica Baltzley
	Jim Reed
	Joel Nichols
	Jon Anderson
	Joseph Meiser
	Kalli Phillips
	Kari Gates
	Keith Peterson
	Kelly MaCwilliams
	Kelly & Brad Skillicorn
	Kyle Chezik
	Larry Sauber
	Leah Gruhn
	Linsay Kocka
	Lisa Thompson
	Lonie Sauber
	Mara Larson
	Mark Benisek
	Mark Seaburg
	Martin Rudnick
	Mary Gonzalez
	Matt Burton-Kelly
	Matt Johnson
	Matt Nikodym
	Matt Petersen
	Maury Malanaphy
	Michael Pherneton
	Mick Carlson
	Molly Cochran
	Patti Iverson
	Paul Haberman
	Paul & Janna Krawczyk
	Pete Bell
	Pete Brueggen
	Phillip Carlton
	Porter Million
	Randy Allen
	Randy Anderson
	Ray Coyle
	Raymond Jick
	Rebecca Sauber
	Richard Parsons
	Rick Conrad
	Robbie Morford
	Roger Parenteau
	Ron Saul
	Ryan Carlson
	Ryan Horkey
	Scott Hippen
	Scott Shauss
	Steve Wagner
	Steven Steichen
	Sue Schroeder
	Syd Lahtinen
	T.C. Worely
	Ted Clausen
	Tiffany Foley
	Tim Bergeson
	Tim Ek
	Tim Krueger
	Tim Wertz
	Troy Lawrence

Reserves (in order)
	Curt Arrigoni
	Ross Hargrove
	John Berini
	Charlie Shad
	Bruce Anderson
	Bill Franken
	Caleb Donaldson
	Tom McBeain
	Brandon Meinke
	Andrew Lindberg
	David Strachan
	Christian Huseby
	Neal Cary
	Drew Klees
	Scott Meulebroeck
	Chris Zagozen
	Jeremy Fry
	Greg Ames
	John Hatcher
	Derek Chinn

The Postcard Deluge May Commence!

2011-12-01T17:53:00.001-08:00

As is roughly tradition... around the holiday season the annual postcard mailing is about to open up!

So... here is the low-down.

To gain entrance into Goodhue and Wabasha County's best gravel road event, you first must send in a postcard to Jake Huot. They must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2012. His info is as follows:

Ragnarok 105 c/o
Jacob Huot
1079 Putnam Ave.
Red Wing, MN 55066

One entry per card (tandem entries should have both names on one card).
18 yo or older please.
Please include your name, email address, m/f (or tandem)
Any card that does not include this info will be tossed.

Just like last year we will be capping the race at 105 entries. Sorry, but it's how we roll. After the first few days of the new year (to allow for the last cards to get in) we will draw cards at random. The roster will be posted as soon as it is finalized. We will then draw all of the cards to set up the reserves. Invariably quite a few folks will drop out, so quite a few people on the reserves will get in.

The race next year will be on April 14th, 2012. Around 105 miles (maybe a bit more). You can receive outside support at the first and second checkpoints (Zumbro Falls, and Lake City). You'll have roughly 12 hours to complete the course.

I think that's about it.... Jake... Larry... post up if I forgot anything...

2011-04-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Here are the overall results since I don't know how many people went to the official race-day website. Thanks again for a great day and race. It's looking like April 14th next year since Easter is so early.

Manske,Brandon ( #50 - Men )	1	6:40:00	16.7 mph
Ek,Tim ( #79 - Men )	2	6:40:00	16.7 mph
Meiser,Joe ( #47 - Men )	3	6:40:00	16.7 mph
Tri,Charly ( #1 - Men )	4	6:41:00	16.6 mph
Austin-Phillips,Jeff ( #122 - Men )	5	6:41:00	16.6 mph
Buffington,Jason ( #91 - Men )	6	6:41:00	16.6 mph
Farrow,Charlie ( #74 - Men )	7	6:52:00	16.2 mph
Norrie,Tim ( #37 - Men )	8	7:01:00	15.8 mph
Struchynski,John ( #13 - Men )	9	7:02:00	15.8 mph
Meyer,Dave ( #45 - Men )	10	7:22:00	15.1 mph
Everstone,Hurl ( #75 - Men )	11	7:27:00	14.9 mph
Cleary,Rick ( #86 - Men )	12	7:29:00	14.8 mph
Sova,Chad ( #16 - Men )	13	7:29:00	14.8 mph
Hendricks,Rich ( #66 - Men )	14	7:31:00	14.8 mph
Kern,Jon ( #61 - Men )	15	7:34:00	14.7 mph
Kershaw,Jeremy ( #60 - Men )	16	7:40:00	14.5 mph
Held,Robert ( #67 - Men )	17	7:51:00	14.2 mph
Marietta,Paul ( #49 - Men )	18	7:51:00	14.2 mph
Elson,Brandt ( #78 - Men )	19	7:51:00	14.2 mph
Rudnick,Martin ( #24 - Men )	20	7:55:00	14.0 mph
Palmer,Jim ( #32 - Men )	21	7:59:00	13.9 mph
VanErt,Chris ( #6 - Men )	22	8:06:00	13.7 mph
Vinar,Jason ( #5 - Men )	23	8:10:00	13.6 mph
Oney,Ben ( #36 - Men )	24	8:10:00	13.6 mph
Tetmeyer,Andy ( #11 - Men )	25	8:12:00	13.5 mph
Cizmas,David ( #88 - Men )	26	8:15:00	13.5 mph
Carlson,Mick ( #90 - Men )	27	8:16:00	13.4 mph
Skillicorn,Brad and Kelly ( #17 - Tandem )	28	8:17:00	13.4 mph
Bilek,Jerry ( #97 - Men )	29	8:19:00	13.4 mph
Dittmer,Dan ( #82 - Men )	30	8:21:00	13.3 mph
Millner,Chad ( #44 - Men )	31	8:21:00	13.3 mph
Hansen,Gerald ( #70 - Men )	32	8:23:00	13.3 mph
Karow,Eddie ( #62 - Men )	33	8:25:00	13.2 mph
Kowaliw,Mark ( #58 - Men )	34	8:25:00	13.2 mph
Weisbrod,Heath ( #3 - Men )	35	8:25:00	13.2 mph
Bialas,James ( #98 - Men )	36	8:28:00	13.1 mph
Nichols,Joel ( #39 - Men )	37	8:29:00	13.1 mph
Pitts,Justin ( #27 - Men )	38	8:30:00	13.1 mph
Tweed,Evan ( #9 - Men )	39	8:32:00	13.0 mph
Donovan,Jack ( #81 - Men )	40	8:34:00	13.0 mph
Nelson,Bill ( #40 - Men )	41	8:35:00	12.9 mph
Peterson,Keith ( #30 - Men )	42	8:36:00	12.9 mph
Boltz,Ed ( #96 - Men )	43	8:36:00	12.9 mph
Erickson,Scott ( #76 - Men )	44	8:40:00	12.8 mph
Swenson,Brett ( #12 - Men )	45	8:40:00	12.8 mph
Cary,Neil ( #35 - Men )	46	8:48:00	12.6 mph
Nickles,Ray ( #38 - Men )	47	8:52:00	12.5 mph
Vosberg,Roy ( #4 - Men )	48	9:00:00	12.3 mph
Pike,John ( #28 - Men )	49	9:03:00	12.3 mph
Coyne,Justin ( #84 - Men )	50	9:05:00	12.2 mph
Stark,Tim ( #15 - Men )	51	9:07:00	12.2 mph
Lawrence,Troy ( #54 - Men )	52	9:13:00	12.1 mph
Krawczyk,Paul and Janna ( #57 - Tandem )	53	9:21:00	11.9 mph
Larson,Mara ( #197 - Women )	54	9:22:00	11.9 mph
MacNaughton,Donald ( #52 - Men )	55	9:30:00	11.7 mph
Benishek,Mark ( #99 - Men )	56	9:30:00	11.7 mph
Franken,Bill ( #71 - Men )	57	9:31:00	11.7 mph
Johnson,Matt ( #63 - Men )	58	9:39:00	11.5 mph
Irving,Craig ( #65 - Men )	59	9:43:00	11.4 mph
Tyler,Dave ( #8 - Men )	60	9:51:00	11.3 mph
Larkin,Chris ( #56 - Men )	61	9:59:00	11.1 mph
Wenzel,Steve ( #129 - Men )	62	9:59:00	11.1 mph
Jazdzewski,Jeremiah ( #64 - Men )	63	10:01:00	11.1 mph
Dukek,Brian ( #80 - Men )	64	10:01:00	11.1 mph
MacWilliams,Kelly ( #51 - Women )	65	10:01:00	11.1 mph
Emery,Mark ( #77 - Men )	66	10:01:00	11.1 mph
Worley,TC ( #2 - Men )	67	10:02:00	11.1 mph
Morford,Robbie ( #42 - Men )	68	10:02:00	11.1 mph
Shepard,Bob ( #18 - Men )	69	10:06:00	11.0 mph
Carlson,Derek ( #89 - Men )	70	10:06:00	11.0 mph
Clausen,Ted ( #87 - Men )	71	10:11:00	10.9 mph
Pletka,Bruce ( #26 - Men )	72	10:13:00	10.9 mph
Parr,Brandon ( #31 - Men )	73	10:24:00	10.7 mph
Steeves,Dan ( #14 - Men )	74	10:26:00	10.6 mph
Foley,James ( #73 - Men )	75	10:28:00	10.6 mph
Loye,Jon ( #53 - Men )	76	10:28:00	10.6 mph
Brown,Bobby ( #94 - Men )	77	10:37:00	10.5 mph
Bruessel,Brent ( #93 - Men )	78	10:39:00	10.4 mph
Schneider,Joshua ( #20 - Men )	79	10:52:00	10.2 mph
Francl,Luc ( #72 - Men )	80	11:29:00	9.7 mph
Bruning,David ( #92 - Men )	81	11:31:00	9.6 mph
Marx,Larry ( #48 - Men )	82	11:31:00	9.6 mph
Gruhn,Leah ( #113 - Women )	83	12:08:00	9.2 mph
Mohr,Jere ( #43 - Men )	84	12:08:00	9.2 mph
Meulebroeck,Scott ( #46 - Men )	85	12:08:00	9.2 mph
Sauber,Larry ( #21 - Men )	86	DNF	16.4 mph
Sauber,Lonie ( #22 - Men )	87	DNF	15.6 mph
Sample,Todd ( #23 - Men )	88	DNF	15.2 mph
VanderWoude,Mark ( #7 - Men )	89	DNF	15.2 mph
Peterson,Josh ( #29 - Men )	90	DNF	15.0 mph
Oswald,Nick ( #34 - Men )	91	DNF	14.4 mph
Braasch,Grant ( #95 - Men )	92	DNF	14.0 mph
Hansen,Dan ( #69 - Men )	93	DNF	13.4 mph
Bell,Pete ( #100 - Men )	94	DNF	11.7 mph
Dech,Phil ( #83 - Men )	95	DNF	11.7 mph
Riley,Matt ( #25 - Men )	96	DNF	11.0 mph
Cole,Brad ( #85 - Men )	97	DNF	-

2011 is in the books

2011-04-11T18:08:00.000-07:00

Extra, Extra read all about it! Brandon Manske breaks Charly Tri's stranglehold on the Ragnarok and wins in a three person sprint! Tim Ek took a strong 2nd place, with Joe Meiser grabbing the remaining podium spot. All three finished with the same time of 6 hours and 40 minutes. That's an average speed of 16.7 mph over the 111 miles!

In the King of the Mountain competition Tim Ek, by virtue of being in the top 2 on every climb and winning 3 sprints to the "peak" wins with a total of 30 points (out of a possible 36). Joe Meiser was right behind with 25 points of his own. The always punchy Larry Sauber finished in a solid third place with 11 points.

Mara Larson took home another top Women's trophy with a time of 9 hours and 22 minutes on her trusty singlespeed. Kelly MacWilliams just over ten hours to take home second. Leah Gruhn came in just as we were about to call it an event to grab 3rd place.

Brad and Kelly Skillicorn grabbed the top tandem prize after being in the saddles for 8 hours and 17 minutes.

Thanks to our sponsors for providing support and some swag:

Wheelhouse Cycles - Andrew is a solid guy and has provided us with support while we are out on recon trips, helps with organizational things, hosted Friday night registration, and has a few real fancy road and cross machines at his shop. When you're in town stop by to grab a Gu or tube or one of his 10,000 pairs of biking gloves. Tell him the Ragnarok sent ya....

Cars-R-Coffins - Great people, strong riders, great fun. Thanks for another year of bringing down some awesome swag to be enjoyed by some weary racers.

Banjo Brothers - Makers of handy, dandy, reliable bags for your bike (and life). They stepped up with a nice selection of saddle bags and roll-up messenger bags. Don't get caught out in the hinterlands without one!

Salsa Cycles - Makers, designers, and riders of awesome bikes. Many a rider was on a Salsa this year as it seems that they just keep dialing in to what a long day in the saddle on rough roads requires.

Hed Wheels - Another year and another AMAZING wheelset given away. I think next year I am going to race just to see if I can somehow win these things! A big thanks to Hed! If you are looking for a light, fast-rolling, durable wheelset, you can't do much better than a Hed!

Also, thanks to Mississippi National Golf Course for hosting the start and finish. We went in not knowing what to expect, and while the bathrooms were locked in the morning, the course apologizes and it sounds like they want us to be back. The location can't be beat for access to the gravel, and they are some good people. Huge thanks to all for keeping the parking lot clean. I did a walk through when everyone was gone and I think it was cleaner after the race than before.

Most of all - Thanks to all the riders. You guys and gals are truly why we keep on coming back for another year. Hopefully we can find a few more hidden gem roads like the Zumbro Bottoms and "Heath's Hill"....

Preliminary calendars say that Ragnarok 5.0 will be on April 14th (Saturday after Easter). Details will follow as we know more.

2011-04-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

I posted a few of my pictures of this year's event.
find them here

You can also download pdf copies of this year's route on the results website.

Great Job Riders!

2011-04-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

Thanks for coming out for the 4th edition of our little race! Hope that you had fun between gritting your teeth and cursing our names.

We'll post up a more complete summary soon, but just wanted to thank everyone for another great year!

As always comments for ways to improve the race are always welcome.

Sleep well!

Good Morning Riders!

2011-04-09T03:33:00.000-07:00

It's 2 hours from go time...

Drink lots of water

Use lots of sunscreen

Have lots of fun

Be lots of safe!

Mississippi National Golf Links

2011-04-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

As stated elsewhere, we are using Mississippi National Golf Link's parking lot this year as the start/finish location. As luck would have it, tomorrow is their "opening day" for this year, which means there is bound to be lots of golfers out.
PLEASE understand that we are guests at their facility and I need your help to make this work.

When you arrive in the morning you will need to park in the "lower" lot, furthest from the club house. Try and take up as little space as possible, it will likely be a full house by afternoon.

You have been warned

2011-04-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking of poaching Ragnarok, please don't. Respect that there is a race in progress. If you are caught riding on course and are not in the race your postcard will not make it in the drawing next year.

I'm sorry we don't let everyone in the race, but for riders safety I do not want confusions at check points. We have checkpoints that are for the directors sanity that can be easily screwed up by a random on course.

Thanks for the courtesy. See you on Saturday. Don't forget, if your in town on Friday between 7-9 stop down at Wheelhouse bike shop and pick up your number early.

Quick little update

2011-04-07T18:33:00.001-07:00

At least for the 1st half of the course the MMRs are rideable for the most part. There is about 25-50 yards of one that is a foot of snow which will be a bit tough to ride through. The rest of the roads are mint!

Could there be records broken on Saturday?

Final Race Roster and notes

2011-04-04T18:29:00.001-07:00

To see the updated rules for Miss. National Start/Finish, Final Roster, Updates while the race is going on (if all works out)... please follow this link: Ragnarok Race Central

We will be having 'early' registration the night before at Wheelhouse Cycles. From 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday the 8th we'll be down at the shop (1932 Old West Main Street, Red Wing, MN) if you're in town the day before the race. It'll make your morning a bit easier knowing you can sleep in that extra 10 minutes.

For those that can't make it Friday night, we will be opening registration in the LOWER parking lot of the Mississippi National Golf Links at 6:15 am, April 9th. Registration will close at 7:15. After registration closes we'll have a quick rider meeting with some announcements and then we'll get out of your way and let the fun begin at 7:30 am sharp.

Under a week - Some safety reminders

2011-04-04T07:01:00.000-07:00

Many of you have ridden in gravel centuries/events before, and those that haven't have probably put on at least a few miles on the dusty/muddy/icy dirt roads this winter/spring... but some things to have in the back of your head while riding this weekend:

- Please obey all road signs. If the sign says stop. Please do so.
- It's a long race so be smart about bombing down hills and whatnot.... it's a gas, but always ride within yourself.
- When cresting a hill, or going around a blind corner always ride to the right side of the road.
- Gravel is a very inconsistent surface to ride on. For the most part the roads of Goodhue and Wabasha counties are premium surfaces to ride on. Patches of frost heaves, loose gravel, mud will still pop up though, so be prepared! Right now ice is even a possibility, though the temps this week should help in that respect.
- Dogs. In general the dogs we've ran across while riding this spring have been well behaved. Watch out though. Even when they are just trying to be friendly they can cause a crash.
- Be respectful of others. We're using the roads, but they are not closed and they are not solely ours. Don't litter. Smile at folks. Wave. Goodhue and Wabasha counties have been happy to give us permission to run the race so far. Let's not give them reason to change their minds.
- Be prepared. There is roughly 40-45 miles between civilization and in some of the valleys you probably will not get good cell reception/coverage. The organizers of the race also are not responsible for providing you with a way out if you get in trouble.
- You are responsible for you. We won't have piles of tubes, water, gel packs etc. We will not drive all over picking people up who have to drop out for whatever reason.
- Please have a working blinky red rear light and some sort of blinky white front light.

The main gravel roads are all shaping up VERY nicely. Awesome to just cruise on. The minimum maintenance roads on the other hand could be in... ummm.... interesting shape. We'll try and give an update later in the week as to the current shape of the roads, but as of now I would recommend bringing at least one or two spare pairs of socks (or some way to keep your tootsies dry).

Live updates

2011-03-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

We are going to take another crack at providing live updates on that new inter-web thingy again this year.
Updates and information can be found here.

Withdraw deadline

2011-03-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

Your last chance to chicken out of this year's Ragnarok is approaching.
The cut off for withdrawing without suffering scorn is Saturday, April 2nd at noon. If you aren't going to make it to this year's event and you are on the start list notify one of us via email, phone or PM before then.
A post on this blog or other website is not enough.
We will continue to fill vacancies with riders on reserve up until that deadline. After that, our start list will be set and we will expect you to show up rain or shine.

The start has moved this year to Mississippi National Golf links. More details to follow on what this means to you.

Cue sheets 101

2011-03-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

The following is a primer for anyone who hasn't used our cue sheets before.

Our route instructions are listed in a 4 column format. Each instruction will include an instruction number, a mileage, a 'tulip' diagram and information. The mileage will count up from the start or any place where you are instructed to reset your mileage, such as a checkpoint.

The tulip diagram is a graphical representation of the feature for the instruction. Normally this is an intersection of two or more roads, or a feature of a road. The tulip has two features. The dot and the arrow. No matter how the tulip is shown, you will travel through the intersection from the dot to the arrow. Normally the tulips are drawn so you are traveling from the bottom of the tulip, but this doesn't have to be the case. Note: all mileages are rounded to the nearest tenth of a mile. Example:

Instruction 1 is at mile 27.2. The diagram indicates caution is required at that location and the info describes why.

Instruction 2 is at mile 27.3 and it indicates that you are to take a right at a 4 way intersection and end up on Water street.

Instruction 3 shows a more complicated intersection where 3 roads meet. Here you would take the 90 degree right onto 355th street.

Instruction 4 indicates you should continue straight past an intersection with 200th street. When a name is in square brackets, it indicates the crossing street or road.

Instruction 5 shows one of the "King of the Mountain" locations. We will score the first several riders to this location for that competition. For the following riders, this location doesn't mean much, other than the top of a hill.

Instruction 6 shows that the primary road curves left, but you will take the secondary road to the right. In this case, the secondary road is 380th street.

Instruction 7 shows a turn onto a Minimum Maintenance road. The dashed line indicates the road is a less prominent road than a regular road.

Instruction 8 shows a checkpoint. At each checkpoint, make sure the person working that location has your number before you leave. You may also need to get a new set of cue notes at that location.

In summary, the text is normally there to provide or clarify the instruction, but the primary thing you should focus on is the tulip. Always travel from dot to arrow, no matter how the tulip is oriented on the page.

Getting down to crunch time

2011-03-23T16:16:00.000-07:00

Hello from the Ragnarok Central Command....

Some info for those interested about the 4th edition of our little sufferfest.

I'm a bit of a mendicant with the computer, trying to attach the elevation profile from our drive/walk-run from yesterday...

The Garmin says 6909 feet of elevation gain... who knows how accurate that actually is.

Some notes on changes from previous years:

1) We will have three tulip note sheets. You will get one at the start. One in Zumbro Falls. One in Lake City. Each sheet will be 8.5 x 11, and if folded in quarters will be the same size as our previous format, but should be much easier to deal with and less likely to fly all over the countryside. There will also be a map of the leg on the back of the tulips in case you get lost or need assistance or just like to see pretty pictures.

2) The course is a few miles longer this year. 111 miles to be exact. Why? We found a few more sweet roads that we wanted to include and that added a bit. The first leg will be the standard 40-45ish miles and be Red Wing to Zumbro Falls. The second leg will be about 40-45 and get you from Zumbro Falls to Lake City. The third leg will get you from Lake City to Red Wing.

3) The minimum maintenance road sections could be in marginal riding condition. We could jog on snowmobile tracks on roughly 1/2 of them... snow cover ranges from 2-3" in sections to maybe 2 feet. (update, had some good melting until our current snow accumulation of 3")

The course this year I think is the best yet (though conditions have yet to be good enough to ride it fully). Still has our signature climbing, with a bit more off the beaten track factor...

Updated List

2011-03-17T18:22:00.000-07:00

Updated List

The following riders have been selected (randomly) from the stack of 183 postcards. If you see your name on the list congrats! You now have a winter of training in front of you. You also must notify us (Jake) by 11:59 PM on April 6th if you cannot make it to the race. There are 78 people who would love to be racing, so if you can't make it. Please don't take a spot needlessly. Thanks.

For those not on the big list, we have pulled your cards randomly to set the "reserve" list. As people drop out, you will be notified in the order that your card was pulled and you'll then be in. We'll post the top twenty, and as that starts to dwindle we will update said list.

2011 Ragnarok 105 Starting List

Alan Oscarson
Andy Tetmeyer
Ben Oney
Bill Franken
Bill Nelson
Bob Shepard
Bobby Brown
Brad and Kelly Skillicorn
Brad Cole
Brandon Manske
Brandon Parr
Brandt Elson
Brent Bruessel
Brett Swenson
Brian Dukek
Bruce Pletka
Chad Millner
Chad Sova
Charlie Farrow
Charly Tri
Chelsea Strate
Chris Oswald
Chris Larkin
Chris VanErt
Craig Irving
Dan Dittmer
Dan Hansen
Dan Steeves
Dave Asp
Dave Tyler
David Bruning
David Cizmas
David Meyer and Julia Peek
Derek Carlson
Donald MacNaughton
Eddie Karow
Eric 'The Red'
Evan Tweed
Gerald Hansen
Grant Braasch
Heath Weisbrod
Hunter Sheldon
Hurl Everstone
Ian Nancekivell
Jack Donovan
James Bialas
James Foley
Jason Buffington
Jason Vinar
Jay Pitts
Jeff Austin-Phillips
Jere Mohr
Jeremiah Jazdzewski
Jeremy Kershaw
Jerry Bilek
Jim Palmer
Joe Meiser
Joel Nichols
John Pike
John Struchynski
Jon Kern
Jon Loye
Josh Peterson
Joshua Schneider
Justin Coyne
Keith Peterson
Kelly MacWilliams
Larry Marx
Larry Sauber
Leah Gruhn
Lonie Sauber
Luck Francl
Mara Larson
Mark Benishek
Mark Emery
Mark VanderWoude
Martin Rudnick
Matt Johnson
Matt Muraski
Matt Riley
Mick Carlson
Mike Larson
Neil Cary
Nick Oswald
Paul and Janna Krawczyk
Paul Marietta
Pete Bell
Phil Dech
Ray Nickles
Rich Hendricks
Rick Cleary
Robbie Morford
Robert Held
Ross Hargrove
Roy Vosberg
Scott Erickson
Scott Kinderman
Scott Meulebroeck
TC Worley
Ted Clausen
Tiffany Foley
Tim Ek
Tim Norrie
Tim Stark
Troy Lawrence

Alternate Top Twenty (in order)

Todd Sample
Mark Kowaliw
Rick Kompelien
Ed Boltz
Chewy Tottenhall

Pre-run

2011-03-12T17:05:00.000-08:00

We finished our pre-run today. 4 weeks to go. Let's hope those 4 weeks are warm and sunny.

Google map of key spots

2011-03-02T08:22:00.001-08:00

The following is a link to a google map with important spots for the Ragnarok 105 listed.

Link

It includes the new tentative location of the start/finish, the location of the checkpoint in Zumbro Falls, the locations of some places to stay in Red Wing if you are staying overnight and the locations of the hospitals in Lake City and Red Wing. Please ride safe and make sure the last bit of info is not needed by anyone.

The hotel by the start/finish is cheap and close, but not the finest. If you are just looking for a cheap place to lay down, this is probably ok.

There is a new Country Inn and Suites on the north-west end of town that is nice. Not sure of the rates.

Large fishing tournaments are not uncommon that time of year in Red Wing, so if you are planning on getting a room, don't wait too long.

Please check this blog frequently in the coming weeks for updates and changes and hope for a bit of warm weather.

Determining interest of possible start/finish change

2011-02-24T05:37:00.000-08:00

I need some feedback from Rag riders.
We have a chance to move the start/finish this year to Mississippi Natl golf course. This would allow us to avoid running through town for the finish and it would provide an on-site restaurant for after race refreshments.
First, would people take advantage of this and use the restaurant after the race ?
Second, if we use their lot as the start point, they have asked that any post race food or drink we have is purchased through them. Can we live with that, or is giving up that post race Surly beer too much to ask ?
It's important that if we use their lot, that we respect their wishes.

Getting things finished up

2011-02-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

Ragnarok headquarters are busy making the best race in Goodhue county even better.

Agenda; finishing line, tulipnotes cut or uncut, pre-driving and preriding.... that's all I'll tell you. Comment if you please, we might or might not listen.

Reminder; there is a ride that starts from the middle school on Sundays put on by a local rider. Get a hold of me if you want details.

Reminder; if you are needing to drop, let me know asap!

Take care!

Ragnarok 105 Promo 2011

2011-01-24T18:50:00.000-08:00

ROK Promo

2011-01-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Marcus Warrington (Larry's son) the future of SPH cycling, we have a promo video.

Also, there has been a local gravel ride that takes place every Sunday put on by a local rider. If your interested email me and I can get you details.

Some rules to put in your head

2011-01-16T07:13:00.000-08:00

If you've signed up for this thing you probably pretty much know what is going on, but here are some more specific rules:

0) You are responsible for yourself!

1) Follow the rules and laws of the road. You will be traveling on public roads that will not be closed in any way. If you see a stop sign, please stop, etc. etc. etc.

2) Wear a helmet while on course.

3) There will be one official checkpoint in the race this year. At Zumbro Falls we will have a checkpoint. At this point, and at only this point you can get outside assistance/help. There also are a couple of convenience stores to pick up water/chips/etc. Unfortunately the roller dogs are in short supply, so if you want a crappy hot dog you might just want to throw one in your jersey pocket. The course will pass a couple stores , but will only pass a couple really useful stores. So, have enough water and food!

4) Carry enough water and food!

5) You are responsible for yourself!

6) Ride within yourself. Watch your speed if you need to on the downhills. There are some long and very very fast descents. It's fun to bomb them, but be prepared to deal with loose gravel, washboard, oncoming tractors etc. Also, when you are climbing up a hill, it's probably smart to not be on the left side of the road. There isn't much traffic on these roads, but be smart.

7) You must have a computer or some means of tracking your progress (in miles).

8) Have some sort of small (or large) front and rear (red) lights. It doesn't have to be so you can see, but you want to be seen.

9) You are responsible for yourself!

10) Don't litter. Respect that we're riding on public roads.

11) Watch out for dogs, chickens, and livestock!

12) Have fun!!!

We will be starting at Colvill Park in Red Wing, MN. You will get the cue sheets for the first half of the race at registration. We will publish the cut-off times to get to the checkpoint in Zumbro Falls (where you get your second half cue sheets)and to finish.

I think I got most of the big ones. Please feel free to ask any questions as we get closer to the race...

Emails

2011-01-13T19:00:00.000-08:00

Here the list of riders I need email addresses from. Email me at jakedothuotathotmaildotcom

David Cizmas
Ray Nickles
Paul Marietta
John Struchynski

Reminder: if you need out please let us know asap! There are plenty of people that would love to race. If you choose not to show up on race day without a good explanation I will make your life miserable!

I will post rules and all the blahh you need to know before you show up soonish.

Lotto Time

2011-01-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

The following riders have been selected (randomly) from the stack of 183 postcards. If you see your name on the list congrats! You now have a winter of training in front of you. You also must notify us (Jake) by 11:59 PM on April 6th if you cannot make it to the race. There are 78 people who would love to be racing, so if you can't make it. Please don't take a spot needlessly. Thanks.

For those not on the big list, we have pulled your cards randomly to set the "reserve" list. As people drop out, you will be notified in the order that your card was pulled and you'll then be in. We'll post the top twenty, and as that starts to dwindle we will update said list.

2011 Ragnarok 105 Starting List

Alan Oscarson
Andrew Petersen
Andy Lambert
Andy Tetmeyer
Bill Franken
Bill Nelson
Bob Shepard
Bobby Brown
Brad and Kelly Skillicorn
Brad Cole
Brandon Parr
Brandt Elson
Brent Bruessel
Brian Dukek
Bruce Pletka
Chad Millner
Chad Sova
Charlie Farrow
Charly Tri
Chelsea Strate
Chris Larkin
Chris VanErt
Craig Irving
Dan Dittmer
Dan Hansen
Dan Steeves
Dave Asp
Dave Tyler
David Bruning
David Cizmas
David Meyer and Julia Peek
David Pramann
Derek Carlson
Donald MacNaughton
Eddie Karow
Eric 'The Red'
Evan Tweed
Gerald Hansen
Grant Braasch
Harlan Smith
Heath Weisbrod
Hunter Sheldon
Hurl Everstone
Ian Nancekivell
Jack Donovan
James Bialas
James Foley
Jason Buffington
Jay Pitts
Jeff Austin-Phillips
Jeff Zipfel
Jere Mohr
Jeremiah Jazdzewski
Jeremy Kershaw
Jerry Bilek
Jim Palmer
Joe Meiser
Joel Nichols
John Pike
John Struchynski
Jon Loye
Josh Peterson
Joshua Schneider
Justin Coyne
Keith Peterson
Kelly MacWilliams
Larry Marx
Larry Sauber
Leah Gruhn
Lee Nesbitt
Lonie Sauber
Luck Francl
Mara Larson
Mark Benishek
Mark Emery
Mark VanderWoude
Martin Rudnick
Matt Johnson
Matt Riley
Mick Carlson
Mike Larson
Neil Cary
Paul and Janna Krawczyk
Paul Marietta
Pete Bell
Pete Taylor
Phil Dech
Porter Million
Ray Nickles
Rich Hendricks
Rick Cleary
Robbie Morford
Robert Held
Roy Vosberg
Scott Erickson
Scott Kinderman
Scott Meulebroeck
Steven Wenzel
TC Worley
Ted Clausen
Tiffany Foley
Tim Ek
Tim Norrie
Tim Stark
Troy Lawrence

Alternate Top Twenty (in order)

Jon Kern
Randy Anderson
Jason Vinar
Brandon Manske
Ross Hargrove
Chris Oswald
Brett Swenson
Nick Oswald
Matt Muraski
Todd Sample
Mark Kowaliw
Rick Kompelien
Ed Boltz
Chewy Tottenhall

Sunday, sunday, sunday!

2010-12-28T16:21:00.001-08:00

The Rag Crew I believe will be getting together Sunday to figure out who is in and who is out. As previously stated it is a weighted lotto. What I can say is that all three time starters are..........................kidding no hints! Most of the entrants will go through the lotto, good luck.

Some of you have horrible hand writing and others decided not to give me an email address. This means make sure you check back here often! When the list comes out and your name is highlighted it means I need contact info. I'll give those people 2 weeks to get it to me.

Good Luck check back soon!

101

2010-12-09T18:39:00.001-08:00

Just broke 100 cards!

Some little nuggets about the probably 2011 course

2010-11-29T15:03:00.001-08:00

Just to get you salivating, and maybe get you to send in a card in case you are on the fence... a few tidbits of info regarding the changed up course...

1) The KOM lives. The first half of the race will be very similar to in years past (but not the same as previous editions).

2) We will still be going through Z-Falls. Hopefully the road out of town is able to be cleaned up a bit by the spring, but regardless the town was devastated by the fall rains. Driving through was a bit surreal, biking through could be the same.

3) There is no way for us to ever actually drive the whole course. Regardless of mode of transport (unless it is on two wheels).

4) I think that we have about the same amount of pavement as usual (not THAT much considering) with about twice or 3 times the minimum maintenance road mileage.

23

2010-11-28T19:05:00.001-08:00

# of cards the first day, thanks everyone. I expect a bunch tomorrow. I will send out emails in the next couple of days.

If I don't get back to you within a week of sending a card, email me at jakedothuot at hotmaildotcom.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T10:18:00.001-08:00

Game on!

With only a few day 'till registration a couple notes

2010-11-21T06:58:00.000-08:00

a)If you have sent in a card already, you might want to send another one. You know who you are.

b)Please DO NOT send more than one card, the mail man will hate you if you do! In our new weighted lotto system sending more that one card will penalize you!

c)We are all excited please respect the process. send post cards to Ragnarok105 1079 Putnam Ave Red Wing MN 55066 check later post for more details

d)If you are new to the Rag, this is an unsupported race and we will not be available to help you when you are in the middle of no where. Be prepared for anything along the course! Also, if you get in and don't show up without a good excuse, I will publicly post your name and email so respect us enough to check your schedule before sending. If this warning scares you, think twice before you send a postcard.

Happy postcarding, I will try to keep you posted on the # of cards I get.

The guide for registering for Ragnarok 105 V.4

2010-11-04T18:28:00.001-07:00

So we are doing things a bit different for 2011. We will still have you send a postcard with your name, age, gender, email and any other information you would like us to know about you. We will take all postcard with a post date from November 25th - December 25th, from there we will put all of you in a hat and draw 105 cards. Now all you Rag finishers are thinking, not fair, well it will be a bit weighted. For example if you have started and finished all three additions you have a good chance you will be drawn within the first few cards. We will be pretty strict on our weighting just to be fair to newcomers. For all of you that have signed up previously, got in, and didn't show, you better start begging now!

Recap:

Postcard; Name, Age, Date, Email, send to Ragnarok 105/ 1079 Putnam Ave, Red Wing, MN 55066

Dates open; November 25th - December 25th

Number of riders accepted; 105

Good Luck

We have something good for you!

2010-10-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

We drove what is pretty much the set course today. I will not be leaking anything at this time. All I have to say is this might be my favorite Rag course yet, which is saying a lot for all you newcomers. No pics sorry, it was tough enough to navigate let alone take pics(I signaled a couple wrong turns). Hopefully we will have a registration date and the number of entrants we will allow in the race this coming week.

Take Care!

Update your calander!

2010-10-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

Announcing the date for the fourth running of Ragnarok 105........drum roll.............April 9th, 2011! I will not tell you when or where you have to send your post card just yet. Will be riding and driving options for the course this weekend and reaveal the route next week........kidding the route is secret as all of the returning riders should know already. Untill then good luck with winter!

Check 1,2... 1,2

2010-10-26T20:28:00.001-07:00

(clearing throat sound)

Is this on? Be ready for some announcements in regards to the 2011 version of the 'Rok. Some changes are in store, but only good ones.

A little cat to let out of the bag... we will almost certainly have a "mountain top" finish this year... that should be enough to whet your appetite.

Shortly we'll have an official announcement of the date of the race (it'll be in early to mid April as always, just need to finalize things to set the exact date). We're also going to be driving the course to see if some of our new ideas make sense...

Zumbro Falls Checkpoint

2010-09-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

The Zumbro Falls checkpoint has been a bit damp this week.

I hope everyone is out on their bikes.

Offical Results

2010-04-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

It appears that the official results page (that were the live results) is down... so for all posterity here are the finishes of the 2010 Ragnarok.

1. Charly Tri 6 hours 16 minutes (repeat CHAMP!)

2. Tim Ek 6:16 (KOM winner)

3. Ryan Horkey 6:16

4. Charlie Farrow 6:17

5. Sean Mailen 6:17

6. John Struchynski 6:31

7. Ted Loosen 6:34

8. Joe Meiser 6:34

9. Larry Sauber 6:34

10. Sam St. Pierre 6:34

11. Brandt Elson 6:36

12. Brandon Manske 6:38

13. Jason Stukel 6:52

14. Heath Weisbrod 6:54

15. Jim Palmer 7:02

16. Rich Hendricks 7:02

17. Dave Pramann 7:02

18. Pat Dowling 7:02

19. Martin Rudnick 7:04 (1st SS)

20. Jeremy Kershaw 7:05

21. Hurl Everstone 7:12

22. Andy Lambert 7:12

23. Andrew Kroese 7:20

24. Dan Dittmer 7:20

25. Chad Millner 7:20

26. Jason Novak 7:20

27. Nick Oswald 7:23

28. Rob Green 7:35

29. Dennis Grelk 7:37

30. Eddie Karow 7:41

31. Kevin Jargo 7:45

32. Ray Nickles 7:52

33. Justin Pitts 7:53

34. Lee Nesbitt 7:53

35. Dan Hansen 7:54

36. Burton Avery 7:54

37. Eric Sudheimer 7:56

38. James Bialas 8:04

39. Paul and Janna Krawczyk (1st Tandem) 8:05

40. Neil Cary 8:09

41. Rob Belz 8:10

42. Mark Engen 8:10

43. Matt Engen 8:10

44. Roy Vosberg 8:16

45. Rick Kompelien 8:21

46. Josh Peterson 8:28

47. Matthew Johnson 8:33

48. Kristi Olson 8:39 (1st Female)

49. Matthew Horner 8:45

50. Mara Larson 8:45

51. Brian Dukek 8:45

52. Al Stauffer 8:45

53. Robert Danneker 8:48

54. Brett Swenson 8:50

55. Grant Braasch 8:52

56. Joshua Schneider 8:57

57. Ben Johnson 8:58

58. Susannah King 8:59

59. Tom McDonald 9:04

60. Elliott Krizek 9:07

61. Jeff Zipfel 9:08

62. Pete Bell 9:12

63. Bob Shepherd 9:13

64. Don Fox 9:16

65. Brent Bruessel 9:17

66. TC Worley 9:18

67. Troy Lawrence 9:26

68. Don McNaughton 9:34

69. Ross Hargrove 9:35

70. Jay Obenauer 9:42

71. Porter Million 10:24

72. Todd Larson 10:24

73. Derek Chinn 10:57

74. Scott Sundby 10:57

75. Scott Kinderman 11:03

Thanks to our Sponsors!!!

2010-04-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

We probably don't give our sponsors tons of publicity but big props go out to our sponsors this year:

Wheelhouse Cycles - Not only does Wheelhouse provide some awesome service when our bikes need some help after miles and miles of grit getting into every orifice of our bikes, but the shop donated a Fargo frame!!! Rob Belz was the lucky winner of the frame. We had a drawing of those who made it to the Zumbro Falls checkpoint and his name came up as the lucky one!

HED Wheels - A first time sponsor HED wheels came through big time. They donated a pair of wheels that were made specifically for races like these! Eric Sudheimer won these sweet running wheels for finishing 37th. We random number generated a number between 20 and 60 the night before. Yeah it's a weird way to give out such a sweet prize, but we're a weird race. Note... Andy Tetmeyer of HED wheels missed the start of the race due to missing Colvill Park yet he still came through with the wheels! If you're looking for a beautiful wheelset made by a local company who supports local racing, look no further than HED!

Cars-R-Coffins - Longtime sponsor Cars-R-Coffins came through with some unique little messenger bags and water bottles. Not only that but some of their crew came down and rocked the 'Rok! Thanks again Hurl and crew for supporting the local races!

Salsa Cycles - Again Salsa Cycles came through with some awesome swag. Unfortunately Jake had the stuff in his car and it broke down in Lake City while he was patrolling the course. We'll find a way to get some stuff out to random people who participated. Also, it was commented on more than once that it seemed almost EVERYONE was on a Salsa yesterday. The race was won on a Fisher, but I would venture a guess that 7 or 8 of the top ten were riding Salsa (either the Fargo or La Cruz or Chili Con Crosso - I think those are the right names). Thanks for the three years of support!!!

A few pics

2010-04-11T05:56:00.001-07:00

A few pictures taken at this year's 2010 Ragnarok 105

'Rok 2010 is in the books

2010-04-10T18:57:00.001-07:00

A beautiful April day saw a young Mr. Charly Tri get a small gap on the return climb up Lehrbach and held it through a mad dash through a little of downtown Red Wing to become the first repeat Ragnarok champion! He was closely followed by the climbing zen-master Tim Ek only seconds behind, while powerhouse Ryan Horkey rounded out the rock trophy recipients for the men. The top 5-6 guys were averaging well over 16 mph for the total 105 miles (for the first half to 3/4 almost 17-18!!!).

Kristi Olson was the top female finisher with an impressive preformance overcoming a couple of flat rear tires and some stiff competition from second place female Mara Larson and never say die Susannah King.

More complete results can be found for the time being at the links in the previous posts. We'll try and post up the official results on the blog tomorrow. Right now we're bushed.

Thanks to all who made this such a great race!

'Rok Crew

sorta kinda live updates... maybe

2010-04-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

We are going to try and do some near realtime updates
click on the links:

Checkpoints and final times

King of the Mountains points

No guarantees, but we'll give it a go.

Tulip note reading 101

2010-04-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's easy...

The dot on the tulip note is you, moving forward...

The arrow is the direction you go. If it's a left turn, the arrow points to the left. Etc.

Each tulip is drawn to replicate (or at least generally replicate) the intersection that you are going through. Follow the arrow!

When there is a note in [brackets] that is the road that you are crossing/passing/NOT going on. So for example this year at mile 11.7 you will take a right. The information/note says "stay on old Church road [Hill Valley road]". That means that you take a right while staying on Old Church road and the intersecting road, that you don't ride onto at this point, is Hill Valley.

We have noted the KOM locations in the first half of the race. These distances are approximate. We will try to match up where we are parked as close as possible, but it won't be perfect. We will make all attempts reasonable to make the KOM point clear. Most likely unless otherwise noted assume it's the back of the vehicle.

Thanks for reading... only a few more days!!!!

Tulip Notes

2010-04-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

Alrighty, we are working on stuffing folders. I have just a few notes on the notes.

1) They are cut 41/2 X 11, if you fold them in half they will fit nicely in your Banjo Brothers map holder.

2) KOM have a milage posted on the cue sheets, they will not be exact to where the official will be standing. The official line will be where we want it.

3) Your race folder will have a map in it just incase you need to be picked up and have to give your crew directions. If you choose to use it to find a short cut, do not bother to show up. This lists only major roads. If you think you want something more detailed you will need to pick that up yourself.

4) This year we will require you to tie your number plate to the front of your bike. We will have twist tie available to do so.

5) We are not sure if the bathrooms will be open at Colvill, last year they were but do not count on it. There is a Kwik Trip within a mile away. Make sure you have all the water you need before you show up. As with the bathroom, there might not be running water on yet. Another smart thing to have is sunscreen, if you have not looked at the forecast yet it's looking great as of today.

6) Most importantly, you are responsible for yourself, be prepared!

Last week!!!

2010-04-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

Just 5 days or so away!

To reiterate the details:

6:30-7:15 will be registration in Colvill Park, Red Wing, MN. We'll be down there a bit earlier, so feel free to stop down before then. It shouldn't take too long to get people registered, but try and get there well ahead of time. We want to start at 7:30 sharp.

You have until 1:00 to get to the Zumbro Falls cut-off. The note cards that you will get at registration will get you that far. If you make it to the cut-off in time you will obtain the cue sheets to get you back to Red Wing.

You have until 7:30 pm to return to Colvill Park. This is averaging less than 10 mph, if you can keep those legs moving you can make it!

Remember: You are responsible for yourself... we'll give you directions, but it is your responsibility to follow them and follow traffic laws etc. You'll be out on public roads, and people won't really be looking for you. We try and keep you off of sketchy sections of road, but you still need to be ready and neighborly.

Also, the dogs are certainly more frisky than normal with the early spring. Be careful out there.

Up next: some snapshots of the race profile (if I can just figure out my computer)

Lodging and service location information

2010-03-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a Google map that shows the location of the start and mid points. It also shows some lodging options in Red Wing.

Link to Google maps

2010-03-28T05:29:00.000-07:00

Last half of the race is double checked! If you have not started riding yet, you might want to do that. I will not come pick up any slack-assed folk and will leave you in Deliveranceville to be feasted on by mange stricken dogs. Which leads me to... BE PREPARED!

We will probably give some last min updated so stay posted, as of right now Covill park is under water and closed. Pretty sure it will be open by the time the Rok starts but stranger things have happened, so please keep checking the blog.

-The ROK Crew

Some Gravel Road Riding Tips

2010-03-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

As the race approaches here are a few tips for riding on gravel roads... most of you are probably experts but I'll give them anyway....

1. Pay attention! Most of the roads are lightly traveled by automobiles but they can sneak up on you.

2. When going up hills or around blind corners make sure to inch over to the right if possible. Cars will not expect to encounter cyclists, so being to the right is the safest place to be.

3. Dogs are out and about! We aren't on many different roads than the past couple of years so expect the same canine (and chicken) involvement as in years past. Be ready if a snarling dog runs out at you. On the course we haven't ran into any violent dogs, but dogs can have bad days too. So just have a plan if one starts to chase.

4. Be ready to fend for yourself. We'll give you accurate directions, but you must follow them or prepare to be lost. Also, if you have to drop out you must have your own strategy for getting back to civilization. You are responsible for you!

5. Water! Dust and wind and the sun can dehydrate. You must bring enough water to get you at least 60 or so miles. There is one town that we go directly through. Goodhue and Lake City will be passed relatively closely but are not on the route.

I'm sure there are a ton of other things I could talk about but it's time now to get out and ride!

Refresher on some rules

2010-03-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

If you've signed up for this thing you probably pretty much know what is going on, but here are some more specific rules:

0) You are responsible for yourself!

1) Follow the rules and laws of the road. You will be traveling on public roads that will not be closed in any way. If you see a stop sign, please stop, etc. etc. etc.

2) Wear a helmet while on course.

3) There will be one official checkpoint in the race this year. At approximately mile 55 we will have a checkpoint. At this point, and at only this point you can get outside assistance/help. There also are a couple of convenience stores to pick up water/chips/etc. Unfortunately the roller dogs are in short supply, so if you want a crappy hot dog you might just want to throw one in your jersey pocket. The course will pass within a couple of miles of two other towns, but will not pass anything really useful. So, have enough water and food!

4) Carry enough water and food!

5) You are responsible for yourself!

6) Ride within yourself. Watch your speed if you need to on the downhills. There are some long and very very fast descents. It's fun to bomb them, but be prepared to deal with loose gravel, washboard, oncoming tractors etc. Also, when you are climbing up a hill, it's probably smart to not be on the left side of the road. There isn't much traffic on these roads, but be smart.

7) You must have a computer or some means of tracking your progress (in miles).

8) Have some sort of small (or large) front and rear (red) lights. It doesn't have to be so you can see, but you want to be seen.

9) You are responsible for yourself!

10) Don't litter. Respect that we're riding on public roads.

11) Watch out for dogs, chickens, and livestock!

12) Have fun!!!

We will be starting at 7:30 am in Colvill Park in Red Wing, MN. You will get the cue sheets for the first half of the race at registration. We will publish the cut-off times to get to the checkpoint in Zumbro Falls and to finish.

I think I got most of the big ones. Please feel free to ask any questions as we get closer to the race... only a little over a month away!

Pics from the 2009 event

2010-02-20T07:47:00.001-08:00

Here are more pics from last years event.

http://picasaweb.google.com/larryboberry/Ragnarok200902?feat=directlink

Something to look at!

2010-02-20T04:09:00.001-08:00

Trainer Meeting

2010-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

What a better way to have a Rök meeting than spinning while watching "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia". Not much needs to be discussed in mid winter, but figured we should get together. The course has been picked, driven, and all it needs it to be double checked. Sponsors are together and excited (I hope).

Now all we need to say is train hard and show up!

Disclaimer: this is a self-supported race be prepared! (figured I'd start saying it now)

Almanzo 100

2010-01-02T08:15:00.000-08:00

If you don't know about the Almanzo 100 (which most of you race it), you can now sign up 'till the end of the month. It's a great race put on by a motivated director. I believe all of us from the Rok headquarters will see you there. My suggested training, ride in a wind tunnel, 'cause that the kind of wind you will have to conquer.

www.almanzo100.blogspot.com

Follow us on race day

2009-12-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

Keep up to date on race day on twitter. Ragnarok105

Recap of a few things

2009-12-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

In the coming days/weeks we'll be recapping the rules and logistics of the race. We had a couple of cut/paste snafus earlier so these will answer any questions you might have about the race (course, rules, etc).

Today's note:

This year we will only be having one official checkpoint. That's right, the Lake City checkpoint is being taken out of the race. The one and only time that the race will go by a convenience store will be at the checkpoint town in Zumbro Falls. The race will go within a few miles of Goodhue and Lake City but will not pass directly through/by them. If you've come to know and love the Kwik Trip in Lake City, we're sorry, but we wanted to include a few different roads in the race and this was the best way to do it. We think that the additional roads will more than offset the lost chance at another roller-dog.

So... summary... Race starts in Red Wing... at approximately mile 55 there will be a checkpoint (with a time cutoff) in Zumbro Falls... then another 50 mile shot to Red Wing. No other gas stations will be passed.

Some exciting sponsorship news

2009-12-10T16:49:00.000-08:00

Will be announced sometime soon... we're working on a couple of new sponsors who have been kind enough to offer up some cool swag (like... REALLLL cool swag... like... I really wish that I was racing so I was eligible swag!).

More will be announced once we work through some details.

Keep warm and get out and ride! A little snow and ice just makes things a little interesting!

Newbs that gave email addys should have gotten a confirmation

2009-12-08T18:44:00.000-08:00

Just sent out a pile of emails.

If your card had an email, and you're in, then you should have received an email. If you are a vet I assume you know the score so won't get one....

Hope the snow finds everyone well!

Thanks!

OFFICAL ROSTER IS UP!

2009-12-04T12:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in getting the official roster up. Ragnarok central was inundated with cards on the day that we got to 80 entrants. We didn't really have a great plan (somehow we envisioned getting 2-3 cards a day for a month or so to get to 80) so to be fair to all of those who got their cards in first, any of you that got your cards into my mailbox on the day that it got to (and went over) 80 people are in. I think that day was Wednesday, but my memory is foggy in my old age.

We will not be letting any others in and at least I don't accept bribes. Sorry!!!

Thanks all for a hectic last couple of days! Looking forward to more course recon and reports!

2009-12-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

Notes on Registration

2009-12-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

We're filling up fast, but not quite to the 80 entry cut-off. It will probably fill up tomorrow, so if you haven't sent anything in yet but want to be on the waiting list... feel free to continue sending in cards. Unless your name is Jason Stukel. You can stop sending in cards.

Some interesting notes so far in registration:

1) If the last 10 spots are taken by "rookies" there will be a complete 50-50 split between veterans and rookies. We might have to figure out some sort of MTV-like game to spice things up. I think Landon might be available to emcee....

2) Can a tandem win the 'Rok? I don't know about win, but there will be a Co-ed team toeing the line. Some of those downhills will be spicy on a tandem for sure!!!

3) Both previous winners have signed up.

I will try and send out emails to all of you who signed up with an email (you are still in if you didn't give me one, you just won't get a confirmation email). Might be a few days though. Have no fear. If anyone has any questions feel free to send them to igiesen_AT_charter_DOT_net.

Thanks...

OH! The roads right now are PERFECT! Nice and firm with no real loose stuff on top... with no wind they are FAST!

2009-11-29T16:35:00.000-08:00

So for all of the newbs that want in this year here is what we need on your postcard.

Name

Age

Class

No more that one name per card. Send it to:

Ragnarok 105 c/o Isaac Giesen

134 Kingswood Dr

Apt 210

Red Wing, MN 55066

Ok... here are the formalities. I think we are all in accordance with the rules, but here they are (only one of which will probably be brought up again... and again... and again...)

1. Sponsors, organizers and any hangers on are not responsible for your safety. Each rider is considered to be on their own little private excursion. If you wipe out on loose gravel it is not our fault. You are responsible for you.

2. Outside support is only allowed at our Zumbro Falls checkpoint. There will be convenience stores available in Zumbro Falls.

3. You will receive the first 1/2 of the tulip notes upon registering the morning of the event. The second 1/2 of the tulip notes will be given to you upon reaching the checkpoint. There will be a time cut-off for the checkpoint, and believe me, it will be very attainable by all who can keep moving forward. The time will be determined at a later date.

4. You must attempt to follow the course at all times. If you need to go off course for help or food or something you must re-enter the course where you left it. I doubt anyone will be super familiar with the roads that we're going over, but please... no shortcuts.

5. Use your head. Yield to traffic. Pay attention to the road surface (which will possibly vary from concrete like hard gravel roads to snow covered sloppy muddy mess) and ride accordingly.

6. At all times you are making progress on the course you must wear an approved helmet.

7. Obey all state, county, city, village, township, borough, etc. laws, along with the Rules of the Road.

8. We are not responsible if you get lost or stranded. Have a way of contacting the outside world should something go not to plan.

9. Must have a blinking red rear light and a front headlight (can be one tiny white LED... it's amazing how much that helps you be seen even in the daylight).

Just to remind newbs if we get your card prior to December 1st I will personally throw it in the garbage.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. A quick reminder to anyone that has never raced Ragnarok before. You will be able to sign up soon (Dec 1)! To those veterans who have yet to sign up get on it so you are secured a spot, I know there is quite the line up of newcomers that will be sending in postcard so get on it!

If you are a newcomer please find an old post that goes over all the rules to this race before you sign up. We will be posting all the rules again as soon as I wake up from my food coma that may come from dinner.

Take care!

Roster for 2010

2009-11-18T05:05:00.000-08:00

2010 Entrants in no particular order

J. Schneider

R. Hargrove

T. Ek

H. Weisbrod

P. Million

J. Novak

N. Cary

C. Millner

M. Larson

B. Dukek

J. Pitts (Jaypee)

M. Boehnlein

J. Palmer

P. Bell

J. Peterson (Death Rider)

C. Skogen

B. Shepherd

T.C. Worley

C. Tri (defending champ)

B. Bruessel

D. Dittmer

Z. Herringer

C. Farrow

S. King

J. Robb

G. Braasch

J. Kershaw

J. Meiser

S. Holland

J. Zipfel

B. Elson (2008 champ)

L. Sauber

R. Vosberg

D. Pramann

S. Kinderman

T. Lawrence

N. Oswald

S. Haraldson

K. Jargo

E. Karow

H. Everstone

T. Puzak

S. Pamlenyi

S. St. Pierre

K. Olson

T. Loosen

A. Lambert

C. Klempp

Mar. Engen

B. Johnson

J. Stukel

P. Krawczyk/J. Krawczyk

R. Danneker

T. Krueger

B. Swenson

J. Bunkelman

S. Mailen

B. Beulow

R. Horkey

M. Rudnick

E. Sudheimer

J. Struve

J. Rosane

R. Kompelien

M. Steiger

A. Snyder

P. Dowling

R. Hendricks

D. Fox

G. Ramirez

D. Wilson

P. Roenfanz

D. Hansen

B. Manske

J. Dyke

B. Avery

D. Carson

A. Tetmeyer

Mat. Engen

R. Anderson

R. Green

T. McDonald

T. Larson

A. Kroese

J. Hyma

R. Nickles

J. Kleve

M. Horner

A. Stauffer

D. Chinn

M. Johnson

Ch. Chennert

E. Fredrickson

E. Krizek

M. Riley

R. Belz

L. Nesbitt

D. Bucholz

N. Hackensack

C. Hanson

P. Stoffel

D. McNaughton

T. Andrew

S. Sundby

C. Finch

J. Grooms

J. Bialas

D. Grelk

J. Struchynski

Registration is closed. Sorry to say that if your name isn't on this list you are on the waiting list (which will be sorted by random order per day that I received the card).

THANKS!

Your nuts if you didnt ride!

2009-11-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a chance to ride this weekend. You may never get a better November day.

Classes!

2009-11-05T18:57:00.001-08:00

Please put your sex and class on your postcard. If you sent one in already you should have known the drill.

Classes are, Single Speed, Open men, Open women.

Open for business!

2009-11-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

For all that have started Ragnarok V.1 or V.2. You may now register!

We have decided for all that have started our wonderful race before, you get a head start. We are opening up registration until December 1st for you. After that game on for everyone else. We will be letting in 80 riders this year, and under no circumstance will we be letting in anymore. We let in a few straglers last year and we are sticking to our guns this year. Registration will end with the 80th registrant. Please make sure you sign up only if you are able to race. I know things come up last minute, but DO NOT sign up then not ride your bike enough to finish the race. Please DO NOT put more than one name on a postcard. Only the first name on the card will be taken. Send postcards to Ragnarok 105, 134 Kingswood Drive Apt 210 Red Wing, MN 55066.

The race will take place April 10th, 2010.

Ready set GO!

Directors B-fast.

2009-11-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

News News News

2009-10-29T14:57:00.000-07:00

Hey all there isn't actually much news YET. We will be meeting sometime next week to set a date and get things rolling. Usually registration is sometime near the beginning of the year (give a week or two in either direction). Thanks to the creator of Almanzo 100 we will be part of race for the cup. Check it. www.raceforthecup.blogspot.com Till then take care.

Full KotM results

2009-04-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

For the second edition of the 'Rok, we added a King of the Mountains competition to spice up things. We figured that a good way to get the 100 mile suffering started was to throw out the carrot of a climbers award. In the first 30 miles of the race there were 8 big (for MN) gravel road climbs that can hurt. Vegas had one of the LCR crew (either Heath Weisbrod or Larry Sauber) as the odds on favorites? Why? Because to win this award you had to be ready to suffer, and maybe not be the most strategic racer. Lots of matches would have to be burned to win this coveted prize.

Final Standings in the KoM competition:

1. Larry Sauber

2. Tim Ek

3. Heath Weisbrod

4. Charlie Farrow

5. Jeremy Fry

6. Brad Prudhom

Individual Climbs (10 pts. for first, 7 for 2nd, 5 for 3rd)

Climb 1 - Lehrbach

1. Larry Sauber

2. Heath Weisbrod

3. Tim Ek

Climb 2 - Orchard

1. Heath Weisbrod

2. Larry Sauber

3. Tim Ek

Climb 3 - County 45

1. Larry Sauber

2. Tim Ek

3. Charlie Farrow

Climb 4 - Hill Valley

1. Heath Weisbrod

2. Tim Ek

3. Larry Sauber

Climb 5 - Kolshorn

1. Heath Weisbrod

2. Tim Ek

3. Larry Sauber

Climb 6 - 240th

1. Tim Ek

2. Larry Sauber

3. Charlie Farrow

Climb 7 - 350th (Minimum Maintenance)

1. Larry Sauber

2. Charlie Farrow

3. Jeremy Fry

Climb 8 - Weibusch

1. Larry Sauber

2. Tim Ek

3. Charlie Farrow

I am fairly certain that we'll hold the KOM again next year. We may tweak things a bit. Any suggestions would be welcome (though who knows if we'll go with them....)

'09 Rok is in the books

2009-04-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

Great job to all the racers that finished!

Quick post for now... more details later or tomorrow

Summary of results

Top 3 Overall

1. Charly Tri

2. Charlie Farrow

3. Jeremy Fry

Top SS

1. Heath Weisbrod

Top Female

1. Rebecca Sauber

Thanks to all who raced, helped racers, and have followed this blog...

More complete results and photos to come later....

T-minus 10 hours?

2009-04-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

HEY HEY

Should be an epic day... maybe not as epic weatherwise, but that'll just mean the speeds will be a little faster (but no less exhausting).

Reminders...

6:30 - 7:15 is the check in time. Please don't wait until the last minute to show up.

Start is at 7:30.

Must finish by 7:30 pm.

Remember to be ready to fend for yourself, but if possible buddy up. The buddy system makes a race like tomorrow's doable.

Remember to be safe. The race is held on open roads and people won't really be expecting to see you. Downhills will be fast. Ride safe and ride smart.

Remember to have fun. It's hard. But it is also fun. The roads are pretty scenic and rustic for the most part and are some of the best Goodhue and Wabasha counties have to offer.

See ya'll tomorrow bright and early!

Pre ride madness!

2009-04-12T07:10:00.001-07:00

Well we managed to ride the course yesterday, and sorry for anyone that loves peanut butter roads and nasty decents, the whole course is in superb condition. The graters managed to get out on a couple roads but didn't make it much harder on us.

The tulips are spot on so if you get lost, not our fault! I have to say that even if it is perfect weather the course is still a bit more challenging than last year, so hope for nice weather.

Hope this finds everyone ready for next week! Be sure you carry enough with you to make it 50mi. at a time. We didn't see many cars but the ones we came across were not going slow, so make sure you remeber to be safe no matter the state of mind.

Stay healthy and see you next week!

Introducing KOM!

2009-04-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

To start out with something exciting, we are introducing the all new KOM (King of the Mountain) challenge. A hand full of climbs, eight to be exact, in the first 30 miles will count in the KOM. The first three up the hill will score points. The best part is you get a REALLY cool prize!

Rules: You are responsible for you! Know your limits. Have an escape. The only outside assistance you can receive is in Zumbro Falls (half way check point). You will be disqualified if you receive help outside of the checkpoint. We ask that no cars follow your rider, if you do the rider will be disqualified. You have 12 hours to complete the race. Start is 7:30 am and for you that can't compute, that means 7:30 pm is your end time. Checkpoint cutoffs will be 1:00 in Zumbro Falls, 4:00 in Lake City and 7:30 in Red Wing. And you are responsible for yourself! You are on public open roads, follow the rules, stay to the right when coming to the top of a hill or on blind spots. You are in rural MN you might run across hillbillies or any other mostly intoxicated drivers. To be extra safe, have a rear red light and a small flashing front light. Once again you are responsible for yourself.

Registration: Registration opens at 6:30 and closes at 7:15. Plan well, the race will start with or without you. ONLY REGISTERED RIDERS WILL BE GIVEN CUE SHEETS!

Tulip Refresher Course

2009-04-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

I know that some of you guys/gals are more the follow the course tape type of people, so this "race" will be a change. The course will be given to you in two halves. You'll get tulip notes at raceday sign-in for the first half of the race. Once you get to the Zumbro Falls checkpoint you'll receive the instructions for the second half of the race. Approximate size of the notes will be 4.25" x 5.5" (maybe a bit smaller).

Each instruction will include an instruction number, an overall mileage, a tulip diagram and an information cell. The overall mileage will count up from the start or any place where you are instructed to reset your mileage, such as a checkpoint.

The tulip diagram is a graphical representation of the location for the instruction. Normally this is an intersection of two or more roads, or a feature of a road. The tulip always has two features, the dot and the arrow. No matter how the tulip is oriented, you always will travel from the dot to the arrow for that instruction. Normally the tulips are drawn so you are traveling from the bottom of the tulip, but this doesn't have to be the case.

Here is a sample note:

The first tulip of instruction 1 ("Begin") shows that the mileage is zero, so you would want to zero your odometer at that instruction.

The 2nd shows that you will approach a T intersection (in this case it's County road 1) and take a right. This intersection is aproximately 1.0 miles from the last zero.

The third instruction shows that the road turns left, with another road branching off on the right. When a road is in brackets, ex. [350th street], it is indicating the intersecting or connecting road, but NOT the road you take. So in our example above, we stay on County 1 which bends to the left and 350th street intersects from the right.

Instruction 4 is similar. Since 210th street is in brackets [], it indicates the intersecting road is 210th street, but the tulip shows we keep going straight.
!! When in doubt, always follow the tulip and ignore the street or road names provided.

Instruction 5 shows a more complex intersection that we approach from the bottom right and end up taking a hard left a the delta.

Instuction 6 shows that the road we are on bends right, but we take 250th Street that intersects from the left.

When information is in quotes and a small dash is shown on the tulip, as shown in instruction 7, it indicates the text that is on a sign. That sign will be where the dash is shown at the intersection.

Instruction 8 simply shows that we take a right at a Y intersection and that intersection is at approximately 5.6 miles from the last odometer zero.

Tulip 9 shows the location of a checkpoint.

In summary, the text is normally there to provide or clarify the instruction, but the primary thing you should focus on is the tulip.
Always travel from dot to arrow, no matter how the tulip is oriented on the page.

Course update!

2009-03-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

Well, the course was driven yesterday, and if things shape up it should be a brutal course, but could have some fast times depending on the wind. The roads were 100% passable in a front wheel drive wagon (driven capably by an ex-Rally driver). But the minimum maintenance roads could be a slog. In fact depending on how things dry out and if the county decides to start re-graveling lots of the roads could be a slog.

Here is a picture from one of the roads:

Not too bad eh?

If you are looking for info on the tulip notes, we will have some stuff posted on them sometime this weekend (I will be out of town for work until Saturday). If you really have a hankering for crafting up a card holder, the dimensions and style will be the same as last year. A quartered 8.5 x 11 sheet (so roughly 4.25 wide by 5.5 high) will be the ticket yet again.

Hope the training is going well!

Some Details on the Race Day for those who are wondering

2009-03-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hi again

On race day (April 18th!) registration will open at 6:30 am in Colville Park in Red Wing, MN. The main parking lot area will be where we convene. The official starting line will be the Dog Poop sign again. I think that there was a port-a-potty style bathroom at the start last year, but not certain

The start of the race will be 7:30 am sharp.

The First Checkpoint will be at roughly the halfway mark. The same park in Zumbro Falls will be the meeting area. There will be outside support allowed at this point, and this point only! This is a change from last year. The second checkpoint will not allow outside support. If you are not checked in at the Zumbro Falls checkpoint by 2:30 pm you will not get the second half course tulip notes.

There will be another checkpoint along the way with about 25 miles to go. This one is for our own sanity so we know where people are on the course. NO outside help or support will be allowed here.

The race will finish at the same place that the race started. Colvill Park. You must be at the finish line (dog poop sign again) by 7:30 to complete the race officially.

Here are the towns you will go through and what you can expect to see in the way of amenities:

Red Wing (start and finish) - hotels, gas stations, etc. No gas stations or convenience stores are on the route until the last mile or so. Also has a hospital, Peebles store and (2) Subways for some reason.

Zumbro Falls (Checkpoint 1) - two convenience stores and a couple of bars that may provide a decent burger

Millville - no stores or bathrooms or parks are on the course or even in Millville

Lake City - a convenience store will be on the route, there are also fast food opportunities a few blocks off the course and we'll be rolling right past a medical center.

There will be at least 55 or so miles without easy refueling so be prepared with enough water and food. The weather last year was about freezing and WINDY. Brutal. The week before it was about 70 and sunny. Could be warmer, could be rainy... could be snowing... BE PREPARED! You are responsible for you.

More reports from out on the course tomorrow probably.

Official Race Roster Part Deux

2009-03-05T19:32:00.001-08:00

Alrighty... April 18th is gettin' closer... if you have gotten a confirmation email from one of the Ragnarok directors and your name isn't on this list, let me know at igiesen at charter dot net . Thanks all...

In alphabetical order (last initial):

xBakken, Justin - Open M

xBekke, Tim - Open M

xBell, Pete - Open M

xBerrigan, Corie - Open F

xBoehnlein, Michael - Open M

xBraasch, Grant - Open M

xBraun, Craig - SS M

xBruessel, Brent - Open M

xDittmer, Dan - Open M

xDukek, Brian - Open M

xEk, Tim - Open M

xElson, Brandt - Open M

xEverstone, Hurl - Open M

xFarrow, Charlie - Open M

xFischer, Todd - Open M

xFredrickson, Eric - SS M

xFry, Jeremy - Open M

xGoetzelman, Steve - Open M

xGoltz, Caleb - Open M

xGrabowski, Anne - Open F

xHaberman, Paul - Open M

xHansen, Dan - Open M

xHansen, Scott - Open M

xHaraldson, Scott - Open M

xHargrove, Ross - Open M

xHerringer, Zachary - Open M

xJargo, Kevin - Open M

xJeppeson, Shawn - Open M

xKarow, Eddie - Open M

xKershaw, Jeremy - SS M

xKinderman, Scott - Open M

xKing, Susannah - Open F

xKrizek, Elliott - Open M

xLambert, Andy - Open M

xLarson, Dave - Open M

xLarson, Marty - Open M

xLavell, Josh - Open M

xLawrence, Matt - Open M

xLawrencre, Troy - Open M

xMeiser, Joe - Open F

xMeyer, David - Open M

xMontgomery, Margaret - Open F

xMontgomery, Monty - Open M

xMuraski, Mark - Open M

xMuraski, Matt - Open M

xMillner, Chad - Open M

xNancekivell, Ian - Open M

xNickles, Ray - Open M

xNovak, Jason - Open M

xO'Cary, Neil - Open M

xOswald, Nick - SS M

xPalmer, Jim - Open M

xPerry, Brad - Open M

xPeterson, Josh - Open M

xPitts, Justin - Open M

xPramann, David - Open M

xPrudhom, Jason - Open M

xRegenold, Stephen - Open M

xRobb, JJ - Open M

xRosenberg, Andrew - Open M

xRyan, Pete - Open M

xSauber, Larry - Open M

xSauber, Lonie - Open M

xSauber, Rebecca - Open F

xSaul, Ron - Open M

xSchneider, Joshua - Open M

xShepherd, Bob - Open M

xSime, Eric - SS M

xSkogen, Chris - Open M

xStock, Pete - Open M

xStruve, Jesse - Open M

xTenge, Ryan - Open M

xTri, Charly - Open M

xVosberg, Roy - SS M

xWaxmonsky, Nicole - Open F

xWeisbrod, Heath - SS M

xWorley, TC - SS M

xZipfel, Jeff - SS M

CREEPING CLOSER!!!

2009-02-24T18:13:00.001-08:00

Hopefully all of the lucky ones who are in for the '09 edition have been training. We have a few additions and changes from last year's course that should make for some added fun times. Yes, there may be a few more hills.... (in Mr. Burns's voice) Excellent.....

Conditions on course last Saturday:

Yes, that is a minimum maintenance road, and yes that is 3-4 inches of snow on it. At least two sections of min. maintenance road that you will have to contend with. I would guess by the middle of April the snow will be gone (but what will be in it's place???? those who finished last year remember what can happen.... mwah ha ha haaaa).

Final, Final, Updated, Final, Official Roster will be posted later this week. If you haven't heard from me in one way shape or form via email consider yourself unlucky and not in. Sorry!

2 Months, 18 days!!! hope your riding!

2009-02-01T06:07:00.000-08:00

Sorry about the lack of updates... truthfully not much to say.

With the beautiful weather we were treated with yesterday I managed to hop on the steed and get a ride in. The roads we mostly frozen, the tops of the hills were PB. Min maintenance road still have snowmobile traffic on them (that was scary). I did manage to snap some pics I'll get them posted up soon.

Safe riding!

Just incase you need something to look at.

2008-12-11T06:56:00.000-08:00

These are not to recent, as you can see there is no snow.

I think we're "full"

2008-10-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

Hi all...

1) Maybe I'm just naive, but I'm a bit shocked at how fast 50 slots have filled up. Thanks! We must have done something right last year.

2) If you showed up last year, with the weather as it was, to race and don't see you name on the list (haven't gotten a confirmation email from me either) don't fret. We are opening up additional slots for you. We will know who you are. Let's say.... have a card in the mail by Dec. 31st and your spot will still be there. Yes we'll be over 50, but they are our rules, so we can break them.

3) If you want to be put on a waiting list, let me know (via postcard). Invariably there will be quite a few people dropping out as spring rolls around so all isn't lost.

Again, a big thanks to those who have entered. This is still only the second year for this race so we're still getting comfortable with the logistics. In future years we may open the race up to more folks, but for now it is what it is. Thanks again and have a happy halloween!

Official '09 Rules Post

2008-10-29T04:16:00.001-07:00

Ok... here are the formalities. I think we are all in accordance with the rules, but here they are (only one of which will probably be brought up again... and again... and again...)

1. Sponsors, organizers and any hangers on are not responsible for your safety. Each rider is considered to be on their own little private excursion. If you wipe out on loose gravel it is not our fault. You are responsible for you.

2. Outside support is only allowed at our Zumbro Falls checkpoint. There will be convenience stores available in Zumbro Falls and also at roughly mile 80.

3. You will receive the first 1/2 of the tulip notes upon registering the morning of the event. The second 1/2 of the tulip notes will be given to you upon reaching the checkpoint. There will be a time cut-off for the checkpoint, and believe me, it will be very attainable by all who can keep moving forward. The time will be determined at a later date.

4. You must attempt to follow the course at all times. If you need to go off course for help or food or something you must re-enter the course where you left it. I doubt anyone will be super familiar with the roads that we're going over, but please... no shortcuts.

5. Use your head. Yield to traffic. Pay attention to the road surface (which will possibly vary from concrete like hard gravel roads to snow covered sloppy muddy mess) and ride accordingly.

6. At all times you are making progress on the course you must wear an approved helmet.

7. Obey all state, county, city, village, township, borough, etc. laws, along with the Rules of the Road.

8. We are not responsible if you get lost or stranded. Have a way of contacting the outside world should something go not to plan.

9. Must have a blinking red rear light and a front headlight (can be one tiny white LED... it's amazing how much that helps you be seen even in the daylight).

I think that's it. Next post may be accompanied by pictures from a recon ride....

DATE CHANGE!!!

2008-10-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Ok all,

Sorry to do this, but I think most of you will be happy with this change...

Due to Easter falling on the 12th of April (three freaking weeks after last year), in the interests of keeping everyone's family happy... the new date will be April 18th (still on a Saturday).

This is still a full two weeks before Trans Iowa for those who are into that. The change has also happened soon enough so I hope people haven't booked rooms etc. Again, sorry to have to do this, we are generally actually pretty well organized, just forgot to check the major holidays.

On other news I just received 11 more postcards today. You should be receiving emails shortly confirming your entrance if you are in today's batch. Yikes.

Official '09 Race Roster

2008-10-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

Ok... no real message other than a list of the people goofy enough to sign up for this wacky race...

Susannah K. - Open F
Margaret M. - Open F
Rebecca S. - Open F
Nicole W. - Open F

Justin B. - Open M
Pete B. - Open M
Bryan B. - Open M
Michael B. - Open M
Grant B. - Open M
Brent B. - Open M
Dan D. - Open M
Brian D. - Open M
Brandt E. - Open M - Defending Champ
Hurl E. - Open M
Charlie F. - Open M
Jeremy F. - Open M
Paul H. - Open M
Dan H. - Open M
Scott H. - Open M
Ross H. - Open M
Kevin J. - Open M
Shawn J. - Open M
Eddie K. - Open M
Scott K. - Open M
Marty L. - Open M
Troy L. - Open M
Porter M. - Open M
Chad M. - Open M
Ray N. - Open M
Jason N. - Open M
Neil O'C - Open M
Jim P. - Open M
Jay P. - Open M
David P. - Open M
Jason P. - Open M
Stephen R. - Open M
Death R. - Open M
JJ R. - Open M
Andrew R. - Open M
Pete R. - Open M
Larry S. - Open M
Lonie S. - Open M
Ron S. - Open M
Joshua S. - Open M
Bob S. - Open M
Jesse S. - Open M
Pete S. - Open M
Ryan T. - Open M

Nick O. - SS M
Heath W. - SS M
T.C. W. - SS M
Jeff Z. - SS M

Registratiön is öfficially ÖPEN for Ragnarök '09

2008-10-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well kids, it's that time of year again to pick up/dust off/make your postcards. The Ragnarok 105 is back in business for another year. I'd say it will be bigger and better than last year, but honestly, I don't think it can be (ok, in theory the weather could be worse).

Some details:

When: April 18th, 2009. (edit... was April 11th, but that is Easter weekend)
Where: Starts and ends at Colville Park in Red Wing, MN.
What: The Ragnarok 105 is a mainly unsupported "race" that traverses the countryside east, west, and south of Red Wing in Goodhue and Wabasha counties. The length of the course is approximately 105 miles, and it will be almost a totally different course this year. There will be ONE location where you will be allowed to receive outside assistance from a support crew if you want. At least one other town to refuel (no outside crew support there though).

Quick rules:

1A. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOURSELF!
1. Must wear a helmet while on the course.
2. Must have front and rear lights (nothing fancy, just something blinking).
3. Must follow the rules of the road. If there is a stop sign, stop (officially I'm saying this...), if the speed limit is 55 mph, please don't exceed the speed limit.
4. You will get 1/2 of the course on tulip notes at the start. The other 1/2 will be given to you at the Zumbro Falls checkpoint.
5. There will be time cutoffs. More details later.

I'll be more detailed with the official rules as we go along (not too long into the future, just lazy tonight).

But, for now... here is what you really will want to know.

A) We are capping the field at 50 riders.
B) First come, first in... no lottery.
C) IF you are crazy enough to want to be in for the race, all you have to do is mail a postcard or card of some sort though the Postal Service to:

Isaac Giesen
134 Kingswood Drive #210
Red Wing, MN 55066

With the following information:

Your name
Your gender
Class (open or singlespeed)
Age
email

When I receive the postcard I will fire off a confirmation email.

I think that's it. Any questions? Post em up here or email me at i.giesen@charter.net .

Thanks for reading!

Fall ride is probably off (at least officially)

2008-10-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry to all that were hoping to get in an official unofficial fall 'rok. The schedules are starting to look tighter and tighter and a pre-planned ride (at least for us) this fall isn't going to happen. If you wanted to get in a ride we can definitely point you in the right directions. I will try and post up the PDF files someplace (I suck at the internets) so if you wanted to retrace your steps of last spring you will be able to.

Check back in a few days and we'll kick off the '09 Ragnarok discussions! Yessir!

Fall running of the 'Rok

2008-08-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

Just throwing this out there... a few of us (or at least Larry and I) will be riding the course sometime in September. When we have more details I'll post here. If you wanted to try the race in April but were injured, scared, etc. maybe this is the time? If you were unable to finish... maybe this will be better conditions to try? Want to see how fast you could finish without freezing slush and massive headwinds? This is your chance! We wouldn't really have it be a group ride so much as everyone would start at the same time and you'd know that at least someone else is out there suffering with you. No checkpoints etc. Of course, that means no support by any organizers. The notes are right, so you'd be fending for yourselves (unless you travel at our pace then be safe in knowing you won't get lost).

Remember... version 2 might just be even better!!! (will have at least one more minimum maintenance quagmire at least)

Hope your summers are going great...

- Isaac

Official Results

2008-04-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

#	Rider	Class	Overall	Class	Z-Falls	Goodhue	Finish	MPH
30	Brandt Elson	M-O	1	1	11:31 AM	1:36 PM	3:40 PM	13.32
20	David Pramann	M-O	2	2	11:31 AM	1:28 PM	3:41 PM	13.29
14	Joel Cahalan	M-SS	3	1	11:31 AM	1:33 PM	4:04 PM	12.69
44	Larry Sauber	M-O	4	3	11:48 AM	1:57 PM	4:17 PM	12.37
38	Brian Dukek	M-SS	5	2	11:52 AM	2:15 PM	4:38 PM	11.89
33	Heath Weisbrod	M-SS	6	3	11:31 AM	2:14 PM	4:52 PM	11.59
5	Grant Braasch	M-O	7	4	11:55 AM	2:25 PM	5:00 PM	11.42
49	Dan Dittmer	M-O	8	5	11:51 AM	2:25 PM	5:00 PM	11.42
50	Josh Peterson	M-O	9	6	11:53 AM	2:45 PM	5:00 PM	11.42
3	Hurl Everson	M-O	10	7	11:50 AM	2:31 PM	5:01 PM	11.40
43	Lonny Mahoney	M-O	11	8	12:10 PM	2:37 PM	5:11 PM	11.20
32	Mark Muraski	M-O	12	9	11:55 AM	2:37 PM	5:12 PM	11.18
17	Paul Haberman	M-O	13	10	12:11 PM	2:39 PM	5:25 PM	10.94
40	Eddie Karow	M-O	14	11	12:11 PM	2:39 PM	5:25 PM	10.94
37	Porter Million	M-O	15	12	1:15 PM	3:51 PM	7:08 PM	9.30
45	Troy Lawrence	M-O	16	13	12:25 PM	3:51 PM	7:08 PM	9.30
12	Scott Kinderman	M-O	17	14	12:25 PM	3:51 PM	7:08 PM	9.30
27	Craig Braun	M-SS			11:46 AM			14.03
23	Matt Lawrence	M-O			11:46 AM			14.03
47	Pete Bell	M-O			12:05 PM			13.03
34	Justin Pitts	M-O			12:06 PM			12.99
10	Dave Meyer	M-O			12:22 PM			12.25
2	Chris Skogen	M-SS			12:25 PM			12.13
26	Pete Stock	M-O			12:30 PM			11.92
48	Matt Muraski	M-O			12:35 PM			11.72
8	Jeff Zipfel	M-SS			1:10 PM			10.48
7	Z. Herringer	M-O			1:34 PM			9.78
29	Susannah King	F-O			1:34 PM			9.78
42	Shawn Jeppeson	M-O			1:39 PM			9.64
15	Lonie Sauber	M-O			1:39 PM			9.64
4	Calvin Bean	M-O			1:47 PM			9.43
19	Rich Omdahl	M-O			1:47 PM			9.43
51	Bryan Beck	M-O
25	Jeff Zadra	M-O
24	Andrew Petersen	M-SS
39	JJ Robb	M-SS

Ragnarök 2008 is in the freaking books!

2008-04-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

Congrats to all who attempted this beast today. Weather today? about 28-30 at the start. Got all the way to maybe 36 or so. The wind never wavered from being stiff and from the North North West.

First finisher arrived at 3:41. Last three finishers arrived at 7:09. Awesome job by all who tried (except maybe Dave M. who needs to go to an orienteering clinic or two, eh... I guess you get a good job to Dave), the conditions definately made this ride/race a different animal.

Overall Champ - Brandt Elson
Men's SS Champ - Joel Cahalan

Big Attaboy to Porter, Troy and Scott. You were never more than about 30 minutes from missing cutoffs, but you kept that pace going the WHOLE day and finished strong! Way to be. Made me wish I could have been out there on the roads.

Tentative date (without consulting anything more than my computer calendar) for the second edition: 4/11/09.

Official results and some pictures to show up tomorrow probably sometime.

Before I forget. Thanks to our sponsors for providing some swag and support: The Route Bike Shops, Cars R Coffins, Surly, SPH Cycling Ltd. and Josh from Generation Outdoors.

T-minus about 12 freaking hours

2008-04-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well, the weather isn't exactly ideal, and has caused many a racer to throw in the towel but we've still got potentially 45 crazies still in with a chance (I predict 30 or so starters max).

Very last post pre-race:

Weather - so far no appreciable (if any) snow has fallen on the course. It rained HARD last night and has been drizzly today. An inch or two of snow is in the forecast. Be prepared for a full day of sub 35-40 degrees and WET! Hypothermia is nothing to scoff at and we (the organizers) are not responsible for rescuing you if you get in trouble. You and only You (or maybe you and some friends who are riding together) are responsible for yourself.

Registration is in Colvill Park, in Red Wing, starting at 6:30. There are not any bathroom facilities open in the park, so if nature is going to call plan to drive to a convenience store or stop at one or McDonald's on the way into town. Sorry, but the race is free and renting a biffy is not in the budget. Also, it will probably be cold and wet sitting around before the race starts, so while I would prefer that everyone doesn't converge on the registration table at once, later might actually be better.

And finally.... to all racers - GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, BE SAFE!

Some final notes

2008-04-10T04:50:00.000-07:00

Just a few days away. The weather looks crappy, but not COMPLETELY horrible. PLEASE please please be prepared for wet, windy, COLD weather. Some final notes:

A front and a rear light is required to be on at all times on the course.
A Helmet must be worn at all times progressing down the course.
You really should have a computer to help with navigation.
A fully charged cell phone is also a very good idea. You will need some way of contacting the outside world. We will not look for you if you don't make it to checkpoints.
Rain jackets/pants/whatever you need to traverse 100+ miles while in possibly drizzly, possibly windy, probably cold (think 35-40 degrees) weather.

PLEASE note that Colvill Park currently does not have any open bathrooms. As you head into town please take advantage of the many convenience stores or fast food joints to make that pit stop.

Here is a google link of key points - start and checkpoints

Some directions to Colville park (note that you'll want to go through town if you want to go to the bathroom):

Coming into Red Wing from the north on US Hwy 61

Once in or near Red Wing take Highway 61 through town towards the south.
Outside of town about 1.5 miles, you will want to exit the highway to the right (there is a sign for a city park).

(This is the first and only exit south of town on the 4 lane stretch. If you get to where the road goes back to 2 lanes, you just missed your turn. If you miss it, take the very next right hand turn into the correctional facility [MN 252], drive through the lot and keep going on that street. This will bring you back to the missed exit)

Take a right on the frontage road and another immediate right onto Nyphara lane.
At the bottom of the hill, take another right under the bridges.
Once in the park, keep to the right and look for the group of cyclists.

Coming into Red wing from the west or south on State Hwy 58

As you come into Red Wing, after the first stop light, the road will become two lanes at the bottom of a big hill.
Continue on this road as it heads towards downtown on Hwy 58/Bush street. Then you get to 7^th Street, you will take a right onto 7^th street

(There is a liquor store on the right and a Kwik Trip on your left.)

Take 7^th street for about 1.5 miles.
When you can see Hwy 61 on your left, take a left onto Nymphara lane.
Take another left at the bottom of the hill under the bridges
Once in the park, keep to the right and look for the group of cyclists.

Coming into Red Wing from the south on US Hwy 61

As you approach Red Wing, Highway 61 will turn into 4 lanes.
Immediately after it becomes 4 lanes, take the exit on the left.
Take a right on the frontage road and another immediate right onto Nyphara lane.
At the bottom of the hill, take another right under the bridges.
Once in the park, keep to the right and look for the group of cyclists.

T-minus less than one week

2008-04-06T18:37:00.000-07:00

Well, Jake and I finally got out to ride the whole course yesterday. Conditions were about perfect (I should have had on sunscreen though!) and we can all only hope that they are close to as good next Saturday. Initial forecast for Saturday is slightly crummy with a chance of crappy. Hopefully the unreliable long range forecasts are unreliable. Regardless the course should be mostly firm for 95% of the way. Two sections of road are going to be pure slop at best (unless there is a deep freeze).

Some other tidbits before I forget:

- max descending speed - 39.8 mph (coasting... I'm a SSer)
- total dogs that ran out and chased us - about 10
- total dogs that actually seemed to care - .5
- number of weird looks from convenience store clerks - 1.75

One other surprise: There seemed to be decent cell coverage for most of the course actually. This is important if you have troubles or need to drop out etc. We (the organizers) will not be responsible for providing assistance in the event of something happening. You are responsible for getting yourself out of any trouble you might get into. Please have a plan if you need to drop out.

2008-03-16T07:03:00.001-07:00

Conditions on course range from

to

Just thought you all might like to know. At least as it sits now almost the whole course is fairly firm. As you can see from the above picture, a few sections will probably not be too dry in a few weeks.

Updated and Official Race Roster

2008-03-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

Not many dropouts yet.... please let me know if you aren't going to make it (comment works)

Female Open
Brokaw, Sara
Sauber, Rebecca
Waxmonsky, Nicole

Female Singlespeed/Fixed
Henry, Kate
King, Susannah

Male Open
Bean, Calvin
Beck, Bryan
Bell, Craig
Bell, Pete
Boecker, Sascha
Braasch, Grant
Cahalan, Joel
Dittmer, Dan
Elson, Brandt
Gustafson, Chris
Haberman, Paul
Herringer, Zachary
Jeppeson, Shawn
Karow, Eddie
Kinderman, Scott
Larson, Doug
Lawrence, Matt
Lawrence, Troy
Mahoney, Lonny
Meyer, Dave
Million, Porter
Muraski, Mark
Muraski, Matt
Omdahl, Rich
Peterson, Josh
Pitts, Justin
Pramann, David
Sauber, Larry
Sauber, Lonie
Stock, Pete
Tri, Charly
Zadra, Jeff
Zeigle, Paul

Male Singlespeed/Fixed Gear
Braun, Craig A
Dukek, Brian
Everson, Hurl
Petersen, Andrew
Pierre, Andrew
Robb, JJ
Skogen, Chris
Weisbrod, Heath
Zipfel, Jeff

If you don't see your name listed let me know. I may have missed it. I'd prefer to not let more people in until more people officially drop out, but if you make a good case and make me cry I'll probably let you in (as long as you realize that only a small percentage of people will actually think that this race is fun while the race is going on).

The Nitty Gritty Details

2008-02-29T15:54:00.000-08:00

Registration - Colville Park 6:30 am - 7:15 am the day of the race

Race Start - 7:30 am

Zumbro Falls Checkpoint (Time cut-off) - 2:00 pm

Goodhue Checkpoint (no Time cut-off... suggested cut-off) - 4:30 pm

Finish (Colville Park, Red Wing) - 7:30 pm

You'll get the second set of race notes/directions at the Zumbro Falls checkpoint. If you don't get there by 2:00 you won't get the notes.

Hope you've been able to get out and train....

Road Conditions

2008-02-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

Not much to say, just wanted to inform that at least for the moment the roads are in pretty good condition to ride. A bit slick in spots (ice) but generally firm grippy conditions. Cross bike would be ideal this weekend.... will continue to update the conditions as winter's icy grip might begin to yield to spring.

Bike Set-up

2008-02-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

Hopefully everyones' training is going swell. Some of you might be interested in the set-up that I would use if I were doing this race (note: many of you probably have much more experience with these types of things, plus EVERYONE is different so there are quite a few grains of salt). Mainly I wanted to get something else at the top of the page so people know we're still here. Here goes:

For most of my longer gravel road excursions I use my mountain bike, which happens to be a steel 29er built by Walt at Waltworks a few years back. It started out life with a suspension fork and derailleurs, but then I lost brain cells and decided to simplify. Rigid fork and an ENO hub solved that problem. Gearing for the roads around here is a solid 34-16.

I like the hand/wrist position offered by the Mary bars. For longer rides/races I'll even slap on some barends to the inner portion of the bars for an added hand position. With some creative bar-taping that gives three unique hand positions, which for me is a good thing.

Tires for me tend to gravitate to semi-slick mountain tires ahead of cross tires. My favorite set-up is a Kenda Karma 1.9 in front, and a Bontrager Jones XR 1.8 (Front version) in the rear pumped up to maybe 55-60 psi.

Nice blinky red tail light and a couple little blinky white lights in the front are a standard gravel road accessory (front and rear lights - can be tiny and blinky - are required for the 'Rök). For incredibly long and hot rides I will throw a couple of Two Fish water bottle cages onto my fork legs to up my water bottle carrying capacity to 4 bottles (I don't like having tons of weight on my back).

I hope to get out on some of the roads on Saturday with the studs on. Maybe I'll post some pictures.

Tulip Notes 101

2008-01-08T15:28:00.000-08:00

The course will be given to you in two halves. You'll get tulip notes at raceday sign-in for the first half of the race. Once you get to the Zumbro Falls checkpoint you'll receive the instructions for the second half of the race. Approximate size of the notes will be 4.25" x 5.5" (maybe a bit smaller).

Each instruction will include an instruction number, an overall mileage, a tulip diagram and an information cell. The overall mileage will count up from the start or any place where you are instructed to reset your mileage, such as a checkpoint.

The tulip diagram is a graphical representation of the location for the instruction. Normally this is an intersection of two or more roads, or a feature of a road. The tulip always has two features, the dot and the arrow. No matter how the tulip is oriented, you always will travel from the dot to the arrow for that instruction. Normally the tulips are drawn so you are traveling from the bottom of the tulip, but this doesn't have to be the case.

Here is a sample note:

The first tulip of instruction 1 ("Begin") shows that the mileage is zero, so you would want to zero your odometer at that instruction.

The 2nd shows that you will approach a T intersection (in this case it's County road 1) and take a right. This intersection is aproximately 1.0 miles from the last zero.

The third instruction shows that the road turns left, with another road branching off on the right. When a road is in brackets, ex. [350th street], it is indicating the intersecting or connecting road, but NOT the road you take. So in our example above, we stay on County 1 which bends to the left and 350th street intersects from the right.

Instruction 4 is similar. Since 210th street is in brackets [], it indicates the intersecting road is 210th street, but the tulip shows we keep going straight.
!! When in doubt, always follow the tulip and ignore the street or road names provided.

Instruction 5 shows a more complex intersection that we approach from the bottom right and end up taking a hard left a the delta.

Instuction 6 shows that the road we are on bends right, but we take 250th Street that intersects from the left.

When information is in quotes and a small dash is shown on the tulip, as shown in instruction 7, it indicates the text that is on a sign. That sign will be where the dash is shown at the intersection.

Instruction 8 simply shows that we take a right at a Y intersection and that intersection is at approximately 5.6 miles from the last odometer zero.

Tulip 9 shows the location of a checkpoint.

In summary, the text is normally there to provide or clarify the instruction, but the primary thing you should focus on is the tulip.
Always travel from dot to arrow, no matter how the tulip is oriented on the page.