Fat Cyclist » Blog Archive » Thinking About 2011

Thinking About 2011

11.18.2010 | 1:09 pm

Yesterday, I had LASIK surgery, correcting my nearsightedness. The most awesome part of this, of course, was that I then got to spend the rest of the day laying around in bed, taking long naps. With total impunity. It was a rare and wonderful thing.

And, of course, I got to put lots and lots of eyedrops in my eyes. Three different kinds of eyedrops.

And now, today, I find the following things are true about my eyesight:

I get a cool halo effect around lights, or anything that has light reflecting off it. As if I were in a love scene in a movie. Without, of course, any of the actual love scene stuff happening.
Stuff that seemed really blurry because it was far away no longer seems blurry at all.
The heat vision I requested doesn’t seem to be working yet.
The ability to shoot laser beams from my eyes is also (temporarily, I’m sure) still not quite there. That will come with time, though.

Of course, I’m sure that you are — right this very second — saying to yourself, “I sure wish I could have been there to witness Fatty’s LASIK surgery. And you can! Here’s the actual video of my eyes being laser-ified. Not for the squeamish. Or for the person who doesn’t have eleven minutes lying around.

Also, I’ve been told that I shouldn’t read or use the computer for 24 hours, which means that I am currently disobeying the Dr. Lasik’s (not his real name) orders.

But the thing is, I want to get your advice. So I’ve got a short post, with the hope that you’ll give me some useful ideas.

Next Year…And Beyond

It’s been a crazy-busy year. I’ve raced, ridden, and run in some awesome places.

But now, suddenly, all those things are behind me. So now I’ve got to figure out what should be my objectives for next year? What races should I do? What events should I attend? Of course, I want to do some of my favorite traditional events, but I’d like to see some new stuff as well.

So far, here are the things The Runner and I have planned for 2011:

Ogden Marathon (May 21): This is The Runner’s favorite marathon. It’s local, it’s beautiful. She’s especially excited about this one because we’ve agreed she should train hard for this one and do it fast, without waiting up for me.
LiveStrong Challenge Bay Area (June ?): Team Fatty will be at all the LiveStrong Challenges, but I’m going to make a special effort to be at this one in person.
Leadville 100 (August 13): This year, my plan is to do it on a geared bike and make one last serious effort at a sub-9-hour finish. Having done the race in 9:17 on a SS, I think that’s possible.
Levi’s Gran Fondo (October 1): I loved this ride. A lot.
Death Valley Marathon (December): We had planned to do this marathon this December, but I am far too broken down to do it. Our revised plan is for me to actually try building a running base and get so I can do a marathon without messing myself up in the process. What a clever idea!
Disney World “Goofy’s Race and a Half” Challenge (January 2012): Okay, this is actually in 2012, but it’s close enough that we’re putting it on the schedule anyway. The Runner wants to do the “Goofy’s Challenge” at Disney World, which is where you do a half marathon one day, and a full marathon the next. I will probably join her for one or the other, but not both.

But What Else?

Here’s the thing, though. I want to do some new stuff. Try some different rides, some different races.

And that’s where I want your help.

I expect that a lot of you have been thinking about your big objectives — races, events, or just plain rides — you want to do next year (or the year after that, or the year after that). And there’s a good chance that this big ride you’ve got in mind is something I would love to do.

So leave a comment, describing it. Tell me what it is, and when it is. Road or mountain. In the US, or outside it. And if you’ve got a URL, that helps too.

The world’s full of awesome places to ride, and I want to see some of them.

So help me out.

255 Comments

Comment by The Real Doug | 11.18.2010 | 1:14 pm

I don’t have a ride to inform you about, Am just suprised I am the first to comment. Good luch with the eyes. I have to get busier at work!

PS look at the Assualt on Mt. Mitche;ll in NC.
Comment by Katherine | 11.18.2010 | 1:15 pm

Come out and see us in Colorado! Try the Front Range 50 on May 7 and/or the Breck 100/68/32 on July 16. I’ll be doing my first year of MTB racing next spring and those two are on my list. I hear Wyoming also has some interesting races, including a 111k.

Then take some time to visit us at the IMBA office in Boulder.
Comment by The Real Doug | 11.18.2010 | 1:16 pm

I’ll type slower next time.

I don’t have a ride to inform you about, Am just surprised I am the first to comment. Good luck with the eyes. I have to get busier at work!
PS look at the Assault on Mt. Mitchell in NC.
Comment by Purduerose | 11.18.2010 | 1:25 pm

The 2 Marathons that I would love to do, you may like.

The Marine Corp Marathon in DC. The course takes you by quite a few of the monuments.

and

http://www.redwoodsmarathon.org/ This on is a marathon through The redwoods in CA.

Unfortunately they are both in October so it is one or the other for me, you can do both if you would like.
Comment by Lisa | 11.18.2010 | 1:26 pm

Check out the Hood to Coast Relay. :)
Comment by Brandy | 11.18.2010 | 1:28 pm

My family has a LARGE working cattle ranch in Northern California. Lots of fun and you can bring your whole clan(or not), ride bikes, ride horses, see buffalo, swim in the creek, or just relax! Add it on to the Levi’s or Livestrong weekend. It isnt far. Email me.

And I cant wait to witness your laser vision!
Ride lots & ride safe, Brandy
Comment by Walter | 11.18.2010 | 1:28 pm

If interested in multiple CA trips, give the Death Ride a gander. Unfortunately I’ll be in HI that time, but am planning on it for the following year.

Road cycling, 130miles, 15000ft through the CA Alps.

http://www.deathride.com/
Comment by TMZ | 11.18.2010 | 1:33 pm

Try the Leadville Trail Marathon (26.2 on the trails around LV). It’s over July 4th weekend so it would likely fit nicely in your schedule.
Comment by Zyzzyx | 11.18.2010 | 1:34 pm

Not sure it fits into something Fatty would want to do, but its on my schedule for next year.

Ride across the country, Portland to DC, August 2011. In a velomobile. With 30-40 others velomobile riders.

http://www.rolloveramerica.eu/

Gonna be a grand time, with some serious mileage. Looking at averaging 120 miles/day.
Comment by iowakathy | 11.18.2010 | 1:35 pm

have you considered a week in Iowa on a bike with 20,000 of like minded individuals? Check out http://ragbrai.com/. It is a BLAST, addictive too.
Comment by Michelle | 11.18.2010 | 1:37 pm

http://www.doughman.org/

Durham, NC – It’s a triathlon with a twist. Each individual on a team only does one of the legs of the race – and there happens to be a bike portion. You just have to conquer your eating challenge first :-)

I did this race the first two years it was held, and it’s “interesting.” It was also featured on Man vs Food a year ago. If I still lived in Durham, I would do it every year.

And as everyone struggles down the road holding back their meal, we all just take a deep breath, raise our fists and say “It’s for the kids!!!” Then you gulp down what was surely vomit. Because if you hurl, you get a time penalty.

Consider it :-)
Comment by Todd | 11.18.2010 | 1:39 pm

Colnago Gran Fondo San Diego – http://granfondosandiego.com/

Road century, probably sometime around March. My friend did it this year and said it was awesome, so I have to try it myself (and San Diego is my hometown).
Comment by Larry Nicolette | 11.18.2010 | 1:39 pm

The wilderness 101. This is a 101 MTB race in beautifuly Pennsylvania. Chris Eatough has won it three times. July 30th is the tentative date, so it would be close to Leadville, but it could be a good training ride for you. http://www.mtntouring.com/mountain/htm/wilderness_101/w101_body.htm

Or, the Pittsburgh Marathon. It is only a week out from Ogden, so it probably won’t happen for you, but just in case. http://www.pittsburghmarathon.com/
Comment by Zack | 11.18.2010 | 1:40 pm

Dear Fatty,
you should run the peachtree road race in atlanta. Im sure your not going to come all the way to georgia to run a 10K, but its big deal here every 4th of july. You asked for suggestions, so i have given a suggestion… that an i would love for there to be a team fatty in the peach tree road race this year.
Comment by George | 11.18.2010 | 1:42 pm

May I suggest the Moab Skinny Tire Century in Mid-September? It would fit well between the Leadville 100 and Levi’s Gran Fondo. You can do it without leaving the state and still be close to family. Best of luck with your “new looks.”
Comment by Santi | 11.18.2010 | 1:45 pm

The Laramie Enduro could be a great prep race for LT100. laramieenduro.org for more info.

I’ve seen (not in person) people representing Team Fatty there.
Comment by plum | 11.18.2010 | 1:46 pm

August 2011. Top of Mount Washington baby. Get in touch with me. Let’s do it.

http://bit.ly/2QtXb , from the 2009 edition.
Comment by Eric | 11.18.2010 | 1:48 pm

Given your love of food, I would suggest the Wine and Dine half marathon at Disney. This is one event that has made me and my wife seriously think about attempting a half marathon. Added plus, the food and wine festival will help satisfy your hunger after the race. If you decide to run this, I may have to start training.
http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/wine-and-dine-half-marathon/
Comment by AC | 11.18.2010 | 1:49 pm

Just mere centuries, but the Tour of the Unknown Coast in norCal in May is a great ride, and challenging. On a mtn bike, the Capitol Forest 50/100 is a great course, almost an opposite of Lville, since it’s at low altitude and close to 100% singletrack (I’m not bagging on Lville).
Comment by skinny clydesdale | 11.18.2010 | 1:51 pm

Long time reader, first time commenter. Why haven’t you ever done LOTOJA? Every cyclist in Utah needs to do it at some point. 206 miles of pure enjoyment.
Comment by Kathy McElhaney | 11.18.2010 | 1:51 pm

Walter beat me to it – Tour of the California Alps, AKA the Death Ride! My husband did it this year, finished all 5 passes. Take the family a few days early and enjoy beautiful Lake Tahoe in July.

You can read his recap here: http://mcmomentsandmemories.blogspot.com/2010/07/death-ride-recap.html

Actual ride info: http://www.deathride.com/
Comment by josh | 11.18.2010 | 1:52 pm

I was going to suggest RAGBRAI, but iowakathy beat me to it.
Comment by Heather S | 11.18.2010 | 1:53 pm

‘Paris to Ancaster’ is my winter trainer motivation! Canada’s largest bike race, 1800 participants last year. The race is in April. It’s 60 km mostly on gravel roads, farm lanes, rail trail, and some singletrack. Individual effort counts for a lot, but working together can also play a role.

There are also shorter courses (35 km, kids course), and options for SS, tandem (includes trail-a-bikes), and even unicycle. I’ll be racing with my husband in the ‘couples’ category; it’s our combined time that counts.
Comment by Sandra | 11.18.2010 | 1:54 pm

Hey Fatty, Check out the Pan Mass Challenge here in MASSACHUSETTS. This year it has raised 33 million for the DANA FARBER Cancer institute. 2 day ride 192 miles. all of the money raised (100%) goes to the charity. It is the first weekend in August. It is INCREDIBLE…. It is the largest fundraiser in the world!!!
http://www.pmc.org
just a suggestion of course
Comment by Nick | 11.18.2010 | 1:55 pm

Come to the Midwest. You can ride your bike in the mountains whenever you want! Come to the Midwest and experience our world class prairie flatlands.

Join us for such great events as the Almanzo 100(http://www.almanzo100.com/Page%203-Almanzo.html) or Trans Iowa(http://www.transiowa.blogspot.com/) or one of the many other gravel races(http://www.gravelgrindernews.com/).
Comment by Allison | 11.18.2010 | 1:57 pm

Without a doubt the best mountain biking experience of my life was the Transalp Challenge (http://www.bike-magazin.de/event/bike-transalp/?L=1. It is an 8 day, 2-person stage race across the Alps starting in southern Germany and finishing in northern Italy. You travel through some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. The race consists of racing pros as well as leisurely riders enjoying the scenery. There are time cut-offs, however. It is a climbers paradise! You start in one city in the morning and finish in another that afternoon. All your luggage is waiting there for you. My husband and I have done this ride 4 times… first as friends, the 2nd as boyfriend/girlfriend, the 3rd engaged, and the 4th married.
The Shenandoah 100 in Virginia is an awesome event on the U.S. east coast. Lots of climbing and mostly singletrack.
Comment by Laurie | 11.18.2010 | 2:00 pm

The Triple Bypass in Colorado in July. Starts in Evergreen (outside of Denver) and travels over three mountain passes ending in Avon. You ride over Squaw Pass, Loveland Pass and Vail Pass. 120 miles, 10,600 feet of climbing. It’s tough. I dropped halfway up Loveland last year due to altitude sickness and I live in Denver. Many friends and my husband finished, though, and it’s quite an accomplishment.

http://www.teamevergreen.org/triple
Comment by owen | 11.18.2010 | 2:01 pm

give the Iceman Cometh Challange a try. Its the largest mountain bike race in the states and takes place on first Sat in November. 28 miles fast and furious – go under 2 hours and you are legend!! Great party afterwards and watch all the top pro’s go at it. Perfect for your singlespeed or geared bike.
Comment by Matthew | 11.18.2010 | 2:02 pm

Looking forward to the Hood To Coast Relay as well. :D It really is “crazy fun”.

I’d love to experience the Seattle To Portland ride at least once in my life as well. Maybe next year…
Comment by Mikeonhisbike | 11.18.2010 | 2:03 pm

Dude, it’s about time that you come back to the pacific northwest and finally do the STP. In one day of course. It’s not a race but it you need it to be I’ll race you.
Comment by Cyclingjimbo | 11.18.2010 | 2:05 pm

Two rides come to mind that you might enjoy, and both are reasonably close: Ride the Rockies and the Triple Bypass. One is a week long tour of 400+ miles of beautiful mountain scenery; the other is a brutish one day ride of 120 miles with over 10,000 feet of climbing.

If you like heat, there’s always RAGBRAI.

Are you working up to a cyclist’s bucket list, all the great rides you want to do before you can’t? Might make for an interesting post soemtime.
Comment by Huber | 11.18.2010 | 2:07 pm

How bout some sort of tour of your own devising? Ride from your house to (insert cool destination here) and blog about it from the road. I’d love to read a “Cold Beer and Crocodiles”-type account from you. (Fun book about a reporters ride AROUND Australia)
Comment by Randoboy | 11.18.2010 | 2:07 pm

So, you’ve done mountains. Long mountains with easy grades. That’s nice. It’s a good way to get you ready for east-coast mountains. Short mountains with horrible grades.

For starters, come join us for a 200K of Nowhere. It’s like the 100 Miles of Nowhere (and we will be doing this as part of that … if that made sense). But longer.

That will get you ready for a 400K. I put the route together for one we’re running in the spring. There’s a new road on it, for which I will be lionized. And then burned at the stake.

Then, I’m planning on Paris-Brest-Paris. This is the mac daddy 1200K. I’m going out with the 84-hour crowd to see how far I can ride, as fast as I can ride, without sleeping. Gee-haw.

In September, you can come do Bundrick’s Revenge. It’s another 200K, but with 17,000 (yes, you read that right: 17,000) feet of climbing. The middle is Brasstown Bald, where parts of the road pitch up to 22 (yes, you read that right: 22. Maybe the lasik surgery messed something up?) percent.

Come over to the Dark Side, Fatty. It won’t hurt … for long.
Comment by ollyoop | 11.18.2010 | 2:11 pm

Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay! From Haines Junction, Yukon to Haines, Alaska (148 miles). 1, 2, 4 and 8 person teams – and a good party at the end ;)
Comment by Garmon | 11.18.2010 | 2:11 pm

Live on the edge. Go to Mexico. Ride Rosarito-Ensenada. A 50 mile ride with 5000 of your closest friends.

http://www.rosaritoensenada.org/english/

It’s a party on wheels. And it’s held twice a year so you have two chances to fit it in your calendar.
Comment by Mandy | 11.18.2010 | 2:14 pm

Heal quickly from lasik surgery – I want to do that someday, it would be awesome.

I did the Goofy Challenge, dumbest thing I ever did. I didn’t train for it, that wast the dumb part. I recommend running a little more than 1 15 mile run for it, just saying. I brought a throw away camera and stopped and got my picture taken with some cartoon characters, then almost threw up on Minnie Mouse.
Comment by Amy | 11.18.2010 | 2:21 pm

x2 on RAGBRAI – there is nothing quite like it and descriptions cannot do it justice.
Comment by Greg | 11.18.2010 | 2:21 pm

Have to agree with the LOTOJA suggestion: longest sanctioned one day race in the U.S.; a beautiful course; extremely well organized; charitable opportunities. Only challenge is getting past the entry lottery.
Comment by Robert | 11.18.2010 | 2:22 pm

Laramie Enduro 111k is a great event. Also check out the “El Vaquero Loco” 25k or 50k trail run in August in Afton Wy. Lots of beautiful high mountain single track. It’s way better than running on the road. Seriously, it’s perfect for mountain bikers who, for some reason, are trying to run. We’re just 2 hours north of Evanston, Wy (the fireworks and alcohol capital of Utah).
Comment by G | 11.18.2010 | 2:22 pm

You and the Runner should totally do the Big Bend 50k Trail Run through Big Bend National Park in Texas!

http://www.bigbend50.com

You won’t be sorry that you did.

THEN…

After you have recovered from that, head on over to Big Bend Ranch State Park and hit up the bazillion miles of mountain bike trails there.

GAH…It’s my favorite place on earth and I truly believe that ALL outdoor enthusiasts need to experience it!
Comment by Arizona Guy | 11.18.2010 | 2:23 pm

Was that the evil Lord Sauron?? I could swear he was looking right at me through the computer. You’ll not takes my precious!!

I ran Disney this year and it was kind of cool to give Goofey the high-five about 6 times… that is a pretty fast course and I qualified for Boston there.

However – big races suck and after Boston, I don;t expect to ever enter a marathon with over 5,000 people. Go for Redwoods, Death Valley and those sorts…
Comment by Adam | 11.18.2010 | 2:23 pm

In 2011, you need to come ride the Brown County Breakdown (http://www.browncountymountainbiking.com/breakdown/index.html).
Mid-October. Group mountain bike ride with 500+ of your closest friends.
There were a few Fat Cyclist jerseys in the crowd this year, which I think makes you contractually obligated to come, right?

More reasons:
You can ride 20-100 miles of beautiful singletrack on trails that work for both geared and single speed bikes.
You ride all day and then get fed pulled pork, fried chicken, and fried biscuits (yep).
Free beer the night before the ride (you know, for carbo-loading).
Camaraderie and shenanigans.
Prizes!

See you there!
Comment by G | 11.18.2010 | 2:24 pm

I need to add to my previous post.

The Big Bend 50 for January of 2011 is already full, but it’s something to think about for 2012.
Comment by Megs | 11.18.2010 | 2:28 pm

You totally need to do the following tow races:

Warrior Dash http://www.warriordash.com/

Muddy Buddy http://www.muddybuddy.com

I have done the Muddy Buddy for years and loved it! It is even more fun when you dress up :-)

And I am excited to have found the Warrior Dash and can’t wait to accomplish that fun task.

I think as a runner/rider etc. You always need to take time for some fun races to entertain yourself. (not saying you need any help with that).
Comment by MTBBOY | 11.18.2010 | 2:29 pm

Fatty, I agree with the Wilderness 101 in State College in Late July posted above and also the Shennadoah 100 Labor Day weekend. MTB of course. Both of these places have some of the best mountain biking I have ever done.

I am hitting the BC Bike Race this year in July. Everyone I know that has done it raves about it!
Comment by Notbob | 11.18.2010 | 2:29 pm

http://testofmetal.com/

Best mountain bike trails in the world. Bring gears. Lots of them.
Comment by Big E | 11.18.2010 | 2:29 pm

Two words: CYCLO-FREAKIN’-CROSS!!!!!
Comment by Megs | 11.18.2010 | 2:32 pm

Also, would you recommend lasik? I am a runner/climber/rider and my husband is trying to convince me to get it so I don’t have to bother with contacts anymore. But truthfully I get sick to my stomach with anything having to do with eye stuff (it took many years to be able to even put contacts in).

Any advice or suggestions or comments would be awesome.

And goodluck with the recovery!
Comment by matt | 11.18.2010 | 2:35 pm

one of my former customers is a part time resident of Leadville. He’s also one of the organizers/racers of the Boom Days Pack Burro Race.

http://www.packburroracing.com/

Would love to read your write-up after running around the trails of Leadville attached to a jackass!
Comment by Eliana | 11.18.2010 | 2:39 pm

I would encourage you to ride the Pan-Mass Challenge. 5000 riders, 2000 volunteers, and 33 million dollars raised to fight cancer. Plus, it covers some of the best roads in MA with awesome water stops, great support, and hardly any cars. PMC is undoubtedly the greatest event I have ever been part of, and once you start, you’ll always want to come back for more.
Comment by Fred | 11.18.2010 | 2:44 pm

Fatty,

Two road bike rides that I would recommend here in Texas. First is the greatest bike ride of all time,

The Shiner G.H.A.S.P. (Great Houston/Austin to Shiner Pedal)!!! Ta-Daaa! (First week in May each year).

http://www.shiner.com/shinerghasp/

I don’t know what your feelings are toward the consumption of beer, but I will admit a certain bias when it comes to this ride. Any ride that ends a a brewer is going to have a significant advantage as far as I’m concerned. It’s actually two rides, rolling at the same time. One starts in Houston, the other starts in Austin, and 100 miles later they both end at the Kosmo Spoetzl Brewer in Shiner, TX, home of the great Shiner Bock Beer. A few thousand of your closest cycling friends, live music, and free beer a the finish. Just a great time. Allow me to extend an invitation to you, The Runner, and everyone else you care to bring with you to join me, my family, and my cycling crew for BBQ at my parent’s nearby ranch after the ride.

Now, if you want to climb some hills, I would recommend the Tour das Hugel, (German for Tour the Hills). Another Austin ride, with 10,000 feet of climbing in 100 miles. I must admit that I have never done this ride, (I’m afraid. I admit it.) Please take a look at the first link on the home page entitled “Do not attempt this ride”. From what I understand, less than 10% of the riders who start this ride each year, actually finish. Proceed with caution. You have been warned.

Would love to have you join us at The Shiner G.H.A.S.P.

Fred
Comment by Rob | 11.18.2010 | 2:46 pm

You need to get yourself up to Canada for the BC Bike Race.

http://www.bcbikerace.com/

This isn’t one of these multi-day mountain bike races that takes place mostly on roads and double-track. No sir, this is 7 days of the best single track riding in the world.
Comment by Katie | 11.18.2010 | 2:47 pm

Similar to the Hood to Coast race, there is the Spokane to Sandpoint race http://www.spokanetosandpoint.com/
the best part is the midnight rollercoaster ride! We also have a 100K relay (or solo) race and a 100K ride each year here in the rolling hills of eastern Washington.
Comment by Fred | 11.18.2010 | 2:47 pm

Sorry, here’s the link for the Austin TX Tour das Hugel,

http://www.tourdashugel.com

Fred
Comment by thatmikeguy | 11.18.2010 | 2:47 pm

You should look into the Rouge Roubaix. 110-ish miles of road and gravel in the outskirts of Baton Rouge and New Orleans, La. It’s been gaining some noteriety of late, it has a nice mix of pain and punishment, and you’ll get to check out some South Louisiana culture and cuisine while you’re at it.

http://www.rougeroubaix.com
Comment by Jenni | 11.18.2010 | 2:49 pm

Fatty, your life will not be complete until you do TOUR OF THE BATTENKILL.

Here’s the deal- (I did the preview ride last year, it is an EPIC and absolutely gorgeous stunningly beautiful ride)

It is the nation’s largest single-day pro/amateur bicycle race, expected to draw about 1400 racers and as many as 50,000 spectators.

Cyclists will compete 25 categories, according to their age group and experience level. The 62-mile course will incorporate both dirt and paved roads for a truly unique racing experience, expected to appeal to a wide range of athletes, both pro and amateur, from near and far.
Comment by highlycaffeinated | 11.18.2010 | 2:49 pm

If you can make it back to Texas in January, I’d recommend the Miles of Discomfort race at Flat Rock Ranch in Comfort, TX. 52 miles in the Texas “winter”. Lance even made it out last year.
Comment by Col | 11.18.2010 | 2:49 pm

Come down to Aotearoa and join us for the Alpine Epic in February.

5 stages, 4 days in the beautiful South Island of New Zealand in LoTR country. Should be a blast and of course its SUMMER , yay !

http://www.alpineepic.co.nz
Comment by Skought | 11.18.2010 | 2:51 pm

loved your song choices for the video. the video itself was interesting too. the part where the laser opens up a flap (1:38) is a pretty cool effect. so thanks, as always, for oversharing.
Comment by Colin | 11.18.2010 | 2:53 pm

Intermontane Challenge

http://reviews.mtbr.com/blog/intermontane-challenge-mountain-bike-race-july-26-31-2010/

Not sure if it will be running in 2011 though.

400+ km, 5 days, cloverleaf stage race in Kamloops, BC.
Comment by Supa'Tash | 11.18.2010 | 2:54 pm

Go MTBing in the Swiss Alps!!! Just show up and ride….
http://www.adventure-journal.com/2010/11/no-bike-no-plans-no-problem-swiss-national-trail-network-lets-you-just-show-up-and-ride/
Comment by Chris B | 11.18.2010 | 2:57 pm

Come to the UK and do the three peaks cyclocross. Ride (and carry) a cyclocross bike 38 miles over the three highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales – 5000ft of climbing.

It’s a legendary event in the UK and I did it for the first time this year – best event I’ve ever done on a bike. And it’s perfect for a mountain biker who can run.

Watch this video to get a real flavour for it:

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/cyclocross/article/cyx20100928-Video-3-Peaks-Cyclo-Cross
Comment by Ira | 11.18.2010 | 3:01 pm

A ride that should be on every cyclist’s bucket list, L’Eroica Sportif in Tuscany http://www.lecoqsportif.com/eroica/en/
Comment by Fat Cathy | 11.18.2010 | 3:01 pm

Congrats on the lasik surgery! I had that done ~9 years ago to correct my near sightedness. Although I have a bit of haloing in low light situations, I don’t regret having the surgery done. Not one bit.

No recommendations here for new fun races – but kudos to you for such an ambitious racing/event schedule.
Comment by ChrisK | 11.18.2010 | 3:02 pm

Great River Ride. One of the TOP 10 centuries as rated by Bicycling Magazine.

I’ve ridden it the past to years and it has the best fall foliage and best climbs in New England.

This ride is a challenge for everyone, there are some big climbs.

Second Sunday of October every year.

http://www.greatriverride.com

The ride is run by a bike shop so thats where the URL points you.

Sign up usually begins early August.
Comment by Matt | 11.18.2010 | 3:08 pm

I’m not much for full-on, official races. I’ve actually only done one. But I’ve been wanting to get a group of friends together to ride Utah–all 430 miles of it! In other words, I want to start at Bear Lake and bike to Kanab, sticking with Highway 89 for the bulk of the trip. My only problem is that my friends don’t believe me when I say how fun it will be. :)
Ever thought about putting together a bike trip of your own? It could be anything, anywhere you want!
Comment by FatPedro | 11.18.2010 | 3:13 pm

The Tour! http://www.letapedutour.com/EDT1/2011/ETDT/presentation/us/parcours.htm

Gotta enter soon … Galibier and Alpe D’Huez on the same day.
Comment by Kate Morgan | 11.18.2010 | 3:18 pm

Fatty: you NEED to come to Canada. Why? Because we are friendly and awesome and have some awesome mountain biking. Now, I live in Ontario, not exactly the mountain bike capitol of Canada. We don’t have any mountains in my province. But we DO have some amazing mtb events.

My goal for next year is to do at least one of the 8-hour mtb races solo. I’ve done tag team, 4 man, and I’ve been on the podium twice. I’m going to probably come last in the solo cat, but I’ll enjoy myself. I will also be doing all of the ontario cup mtb series. I suggest that you come out for the Canada cup. These events can be found here:
http://www.chicoracing.com/html/index.php

In addition, I will be doing Paris to Ancaster (modeled after Paris-Roubaix) http://www.parisancaster.com/

Paul’s Dirty Enduro:
http://www.torontocyclist.com/bbc/pauls/

and possibly a few road races.

Maybe you should just move to Canada… you can live with us while you get settled. We’ll even sponsor you.
Comment by xlhammy | 11.18.2010 | 3:18 pm

Fatty,

Check out the Pan Ohio Hope Ride…

http://www.panohiohoperide.org

2011 will be our 5th year of riding across Ohio to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Overnights are spent at local college campuses along the way. Start in Cleveland, and end 4 days later at the Cincinnati ACS Hope Lodge.

From one fatty (who’s lost 140 lbs) to another, it’d be an honor to have you join our team, Adam’s Army, in honor of a friend lost to cancer in 2009.

http://community.acsevents.org/goto/adamsarmy

At the very least, thanks for soliciting these comments and providing the opportunity for a little plug for the cause here. We’re trying to do our part for the cause here in Ohio!

- Mike
ps… had LASIK two years back…worth every penny!
Comment by Darrell | 11.18.2010 | 3:22 pm

I would suggest every road cyclist race the train at the Iron Horse Classic in Durango, CO at least once. It is Memorial Day weekend, only one week after the Ogden marathon, but that should be plenty of time to recover for only a 50 mile ride. There is also a crit on Sunday and TT on Monday.

http://www.ironhorsebicycleclassic.com/

P.S. You can try to beat Tom Danielson’s course record of:1:58
Comment by KitC | 11.18.2010 | 3:22 pm

I agree with Nick; you should do the Almanzo 100. Completely different from anything you’ve done before, and completely addicting. Ride with your buddies from Twin Six — they did the 2010 Almanzo!

Or come do the Copper Harbor Fat Tire Festival on Labor Day weekend. Ride some trails IMBA declared “Epic” a couple years back.

http://www.keweenawadventure.com/fat_tire.htm
Comment by Dr. Brett | 11.18.2010 | 3:34 pm

I love the Eureka Springs Fat Tire Festival (last year was Jul 16-18, will be similar in 2011). It is nicknamed “Fatty Fest”, so there you go. Short Track, Downhill, XC, and Trials riding in one weekend. Awesome in the Arkansas Hills.

check out LY at http://www.fattirefestival.com
Comment by Clydesteve | 11.18.2010 | 3:38 pm

yeech! eye surgery, just the thought of it makes me ill.

Here in Oregon, we understand that bike riding is for eating & vice versa.

January 29
Breakfast on the Bridge Ride
April
Cherry of a Ride, Monster Cookie Metric Century
May
Bike-a-Roo Panckae Breakfast Ride
June
Strawberry Century Tour (best food of all), Watermelon Ride
July
Blackberry bRamble Ride
August
Bike Wine Country Ride (northern, repeated twice in August), Bike Wine Country Ride (southern, repeated in August), Tour de Fat (sponsored by Belgium Brewing Co.), Vine Ride, Ice Cream Century
September
Hood River Harvest Ride, Peach of a Century
October
Harvest Century

Makes me hungry!
Comment by Zeke Yount | 11.18.2010 | 3:48 pm

I think you need to come experience the beauty and joy of climbing in the Great Smoky Mountains at the second annual Blue Ridge Breakaway (http://blueridgebreakaway.com) next August 20th. In fact, you should bring the entire Team Fatty with you! We’ll have various length rides although I’m sure that an experienced and beloved rider/writer such as yourself would ONLY be comfortable doing the century ride that includes the highest point of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We had 25 miler, 40 mile, metric century, and century lengths this year and are considering a 75 miler addition for 2011. Check out the website above and see the great comments that we received from participants. You and the Runner would so much more enjoy our beautiful mountains than the urbanscape of the NYC Marathon. :)

You have my email address so if this interests/excites/entertains you, pop me an email and we’ll make it happen.

- Zeke
Comment by DallasBikr | 11.18.2010 | 4:00 pm

Hotter’n Hell Hundred, Wichita Falls, TX in August.

Come ride 100 miles of flat, windy, boring, 100 degree asphalt….with 13,000 other people :)

The city gets taken over for 4 days, there is a MTB race on Friday, Pro/Elite crits, massive consumer expo…and plenty of heat. Oh…and an unofficial beer stop at the 98 mile mark if you partake.

http://www.hh100.org
Comment by Micah | 11.18.2010 | 4:04 pm

I second the motion for cyclocross. You can do it on your mountain bike or (if you want to) YOU CAN GET A BRAND NEW BIKE!! Hmm, do a ride for which you already own the bike, or do a ride for which you need and can therefore justify BUYING A BRAND NEW BIKE! Seems like an easy choice to me.
Comment by Chris | 11.18.2010 | 4:06 pm

If you want to suffer in the spring I’d recommend the Hill Country Ride for AIDS
http://www.hillcountryride.org
Wildflowers blooming in the beautiful Texas hill country, outrageous rest stops, wonderful people.

In the fall, the Texas Mamma Jamma Ride against Breast Cancer.
http://www.mammajammaride.org
Run by the same folks at the Hill Country Ride, but a little more laid back.

Good luck making a decision (or two, or three)
Chris
Comment by AngieG | 11.18.2010 | 4:19 pm

Fatty- URGENT MUST READ!!!!

Levi’s GranFondo next year is OCTOBER 1st!!!

Not the 21st. If you show up on the 21st you will be 20 days late and quite dissappointed because there won’t be 5,999 other Fondoites to ride with.
Comment by RL Julia | 11.18.2010 | 4:20 pm

Well, I know I’m going out on a limb here but I do recall that just a few months ago really – you didn’t much like running so might I suggest the Big Shoulders Swim – you can either do the 1.5 mile or the 3.1 mile version of it and it is pretty awesome. http://www.bigshoulders.org/

I would also recommend the AirForce Marathon/Half Marathon in Dayton – its a pretty hilly course and at the end you are saluted in a Air Force guy in full dress uniform who gives you a medal. http://www.usafmarathon.com/

The Lake Geneva Wisconsin marathon – but really the 22 mile trail run around Lake Geneva is cool – as is the Syttende Mai race from Madison WI to Stoughton.
http://www.lakegenevasports.com/LG_Marathon/LGMarathon_Main.htm
and
http://www.stoughtonwi.com/runwalk.shtml

I haven’t done the Iowa trip but its supposed to be too much fun. There’s also always biking the Erie Canal (it practically has a soundtrack to it).
Comment by AJ | 11.18.2010 | 4:23 pm

The Goofy is a blast…but definitely train for it.

LOTOJA!!

Ragnar Wasatch Back! There should definitely be a Team Fatty there!
Comment by rjb | 11.18.2010 | 4:24 pm

You could come to Pittsburgh on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and ride the “Dirty Dozen”, a 70+ mile ride that includes the 13 (baker’s dozen) steepest roads in Pittsburgh, including the 37% grade brick Canton Ave, advertized as possibly the steepest street in the world. It’s a friendly, but semi-competitive ride every year.

http://www.dannychew.com/dd.html
Comment by Al | 11.18.2010 | 4:27 pm

Deffo think you should come to Europe, Fatty. How about the Etape Caledonia?

http://www.etapecaledonia.co.uk/

Almost sold out but I bet we could get you in by explaining who you are…
Comment by Jenn | 11.18.2010 | 4:31 pm

Come to AZ and do the Whiskey Off-Road in Prescott!

http://www.epicrides.com/wor/wor.htm
Comment by Kevin | 11.18.2010 | 4:39 pm

Give some SERIOUS thought to coming to Emporia, KS for the Dirty Kanza 200 on June 4th. I’ve bugged you about it in the past via email: It’s a 200ish mile race on the gravel and B maintenance roads in the flint hills. Gorgeous scenery and the isolation once the racers spread out is intense. The race has gained in popularity over the last few years, and in 2010 the 150 open slots were full in 6 hours. Pre-registration starts in January so there’s plenty of time to freak out over what you’re getting yourself in to.
http://www.dirtykanza200.com
Salsa was a sponsor this year and had several riders:
http://salsacycles.com/culture/topic/Dirty_Kanza_200/
A local favorite (and blogging semi-celebrity) also used it as a big training motivator. Here’s his recap:
http://www.theadventuremonkey.com/adventure-monkey/dirty-kanza-200-results-my-full-story/

Sorry for the long reply, but it is a great time. Come out to KS and we’ll prove that there really are some climbs here!
Comment by HB Jeff | 11.18.2010 | 4:42 pm

Best Buddies Challenge (September)

Great cause, five star support, unreal scenery.
Great post ride dinner and concert on the Hearst Castle Ranch. Even swim in the Neptune pool!

http://www.hcchallenge2011.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=437651
Comment by Triflefat | 11.18.2010 | 4:50 pm

Fatty,

I’m sure all the suggested rides above are very worthwhile endeavours and some may even challenge a rider of your reputation. But where is the chance for you to embellish your already considerable blogging fame and to expand your personal horizons?

My suggestion? Call your good friend Lance. He’s already announced that next January’s Tour Downunder will be his last competitive Protour event outside the USA. Wangle a spot on the Shack plane and get over to Adelaide for a week of the best racing and riding and hospitality you’ll ever experience.

http://www.tourdownunder.com.au/

We’ll find a bed for you and the missus if Lance is too mean to put you up at his hotel.

Sorted.
Comment by km | 11.18.2010 | 4:51 pm

Forget these other poser rides Fatty, (but the Eureka Springs MTB festival is great) you and the crew should come on down to the Texas Panhandle and do 24hrs. in the Canyon! It’s a benefit for the Harrington Cancer Center and Armstrong Foundation.

Great ride, although it does get hot…it is Texas after all, and the trails in Palo Duro Canyon are great. You can even opt between doing the ride on the road or trails.

I’ll even volunteer for your 4-person team! So between, you, the Runner, myself and Kenny or Dug (I’m not sure which of those two bonehea…er, highly skilled riders, I’d rather meet) we could dominate the mixed team division off road…

http://www.24hoursinthecanyon.org
Comment by NYCCarlos | 11.18.2010 | 4:55 pm

1) I second the BC Bike Race
2) Where the hell is tour de donut on your list?!?! I want to see you break that record
3) Come ride the NYCCentury… it’s the only ALL URBAN century in the USA. Possibly the world. It’s a fun ride. And you can borrow a bike. http://www.nyccentury.org/
Comment by Mark Gronemeyer | 11.18.2010 | 4:59 pm

Join us for TOMRV in June. The Tour of the Mississippi River Valley from Bettendorf, IA to Dubuque IA.
Also, the Centurion Gran Fondo in Middleton, WI is a blast.
Comment by Jake | 11.18.2010 | 5:07 pm

How about an Xterra triathlon?
Comment by Chris | 11.18.2010 | 5:09 pm

The Gran Fondo is on October 1st!
http://www.levisgranfondo.com/
We’d love to see you here again, and we’ll ride with you if you’re three weeks late, but it’s probably more fun with 8,998 other people.
Comment by Valerie | 11.18.2010 | 5:11 pm

BC Bike Race!!! It’s a 7 day mountain bike stage race…so much fun! http://www.bcbikerace.com/
Comment by Scott | 11.18.2010 | 5:13 pm

In March/April or September/October:
Bike from Fort Collins CO to near Crown Point, via Rist Canyon, Old Flowers Rd, Pingree Rd, and Crown Point Rd. It’s at least 12,000 ft of climbing (mountain bike or cross bike, primarily unpaved).

In the first half of December:
Bike from Tucson AZ through Redington Pass, through Redington and San Manuel, up Mt Lemmon Control Rd to Ski Valley, and down the Mt Lemmon Hwy back to Tucson. I’m not sure what the exact climbing is, possibly somewhere around 13-14,000 ft (mountain bike or cross bike, primarily unpaved).
Comment by April | 11.18.2010 | 5:23 pm

In Los Alamos, NM there is:
Pajarito Punishment (http://nmmtb.org/)
Jemez Mountain Trail Run (http://www.highaltitudeathletics.org/JemezMt.htm)
Atomic Man Duathlon (http://www.triatomics.org/coursedescription)
Los Alamos Triathlon (http://www.losalamosnm.us/rec/Programs/Pages/36thLosAlamosTriathlon.aspx)
The Tour de Los Alamos (http://tourdelosalamos.org/) which I believe Lance Armstrong has done.
We’re at about 7300 ft above sea level and the Pajarito and Jemez events get up over 11,000 ft I think.
Comment by Kyle | 11.18.2010 | 5:24 pm

The Cannell Plunge in Kernville California (the sierras).
Incredible ride, the last 8 miles drop 5,000 feet.

http://www.mountainbikebill.com/CannellPlunge.htm

Do it in the summer and take a rafting trip on the Kern river too!
Comment by hartofak | 11.18.2010 | 5:25 pm

http://www.fireweed400.com/
The Fireweed 400 is a beautiful, thrilling race on a paved highway through wilderness Alaska. There are different length races (50 mile, 100 mile, 200 mile and 400 mile) and when you’re done with that race, you’re in Alaska which has a lot of other beautiful rides, through mountains, or along the ocean, or lakes and mountains, or, you get the idea.
Comment by MartinC | 11.18.2010 | 5:25 pm

Ring of Kerry, Ireland. For the views, the hills and the locals food on offer the whole way around .. http://www.ringofkerrycycle.ie/
Comment by hartofak | 11.18.2010 | 5:26 pm

oops,
Comment by jon | 11.18.2010 | 5:29 pm

two and a half words

tour de gila
Comment by kenny | 11.18.2010 | 5:31 pm

How bout a couple rides with your bros? Just saying. We miss you.
Comment by larry | 11.18.2010 | 5:37 pm

IowaCathy already gave you the website info.

RAGBRAI

A week of bliss away from office/phones/computers (but all available if you need them)
Lots of beer (but you don’t drink, that’s OK, it’s not required)
The people of Iowa (simply the nicest people you will meet anywhere on earth)
Here’s the clincher: every variable of pork product sold in every pass through town, every day (do I have to say anything else?)
Comment by Grant | 11.18.2010 | 5:54 pm

Make sure you do the full course of eye drops:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt6Zyb7zOeU

I’m so jealous you got a video, they didn’t give me one. I do have a video of my knee reconstruction though – and that one involves power tools.
Comment by Callie | 11.18.2010 | 6:06 pm

Come to see where “Breaking Away” took place and experience the fall colors in Bloomington, Indiana. The Hilly Hundred takes place each October in, you guessed it, the hills around Bloomington. And there are lots of them. hillyhundred.org
Comment by Scott R | 11.18.2010 | 6:12 pm

Proper answer: anything in the Kansas City area, so we can draft behind your massive quads.
Comment by davidh-marin,ca | 11.18.2010 | 6:18 pm

Wow! There were 50 comments in the first hour, or so and now we’ve topped 100. Maybe we should have a fundraising to vote on which ride Fatty does. I’ll leave the logistics to the master. Glad to hear you want to come West, …sometime in October. I’ll have to bring the Tent for our very own Friends of Fatty, VSP, (very special people) post ride gathering. Last comment on Ragbrai…PIE, PIE, PIE.
http://www.bikerumor.com/2009/08/04/2009-ragbrai-ride-across-iowa/
Comment by MrDaveyGie | 11.18.2010 | 6:36 pm

I think you need a snow race, you can bicyle, ski, or run this one.

http://tripledrace.blogspot.com/
Comment by Bee T | 11.18.2010 | 6:42 pm

I think I’d like to do America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride in Lake Tahoe- the wife of my Team in Training honored teammate wants to ride a century!. I also think I want to do the Nation’s Tri again, and perhaps another Tri. But with a move coming up, I have to wait until I move before I sign up for the tri’s.
Comment by Bee T | 11.18.2010 | 6:45 pm

PS- Lasik is awesome. Just follow the doc’s orders religiously about the eye drops for the first month or so. Then, if you get anxiety dreams, don’t be surprised if you have anxiety dreams about everything being blurry and not being able to find your glasses. Even now (more than 5 years later), my vision is crystal clear but I sometimes have anxious dreams about not being able to see. (It’s how I know I’m dreaming these days.)

Also- after you heal, there will be days when things might seem blurry or fuzzy. It’s just what happens when your eyes are tired and you need to rest. Freaked me out when it first happened. But a quick nap later and I realized that when I’m super tired, my eyes stop focusing well. By super tired, I mean after a 32 hour on-call shift.
Comment by Hautacam | 11.18.2010 | 7:16 pm

Here’s what I think:

During the winter, take a break from running and cycling every now and then.

Get some snowshoes for yourself, the Runner and your kids — especially the twin girls. When it snows, go out and walk around together in the mountains where you usually ride — pick some flatter trails for starters. Take some bread, chocolate, and fruit. And the 10 essentials, of course. Ramble around in a relaxed way.

It is great.
Comment by Bragger | 11.18.2010 | 7:30 pm

Come ride BRAG (Bicycle Ride Across Georgia) from Atlanta to Savannah in June, when it’s nice and hot and humid. It’ll be my 20th BRAG, and you and the Runner should come celebrate with me. It’s not up to your usual standard, but we ride about 60 miles a day and camp at night. (I prefer to camp in an RV, but that’s just me.) Come join us! Bring the kids, as it is a very family-friendly ride.
Comment by Craig | 11.18.2010 | 7:30 pm

Someone may have already posted it, but 24 hours in the Old Pueblo is the funnest ‘day’ you’ll ever have on a mountain bike. Sweet single track in the Sonoran Desert held while the rest of the country is under a foot of snow (well, some of it anyway).

I’m actually looking for a 4th member for our team if you’re interested. We’d be honored to have you. (No we be the fastest, but we’ll be in the “very respectable” range).

http://epicrides.com/twofour/24.htm

Cheers!
Comment by Justin L | 11.18.2010 | 7:34 pm

Awesome, hope to get a chance to meet you Elden. I have been training all year, and I am planning on riding the Bay Area liverstrong and Levi;s Grand Fondo. Should be a great year. I wish i could also hit leadville, but i don’t have the money (3 kids) or the desire to put myself through that one. Have fun for me though
Comment by Angie | 11.18.2010 | 8:04 pm

Others beat me to it, but the suggestions are worth repeating:
Iceman http://www.iceman.com/

And

Cyclocross!!
Comment by Kevin M | 11.18.2010 | 8:08 pm

Surprised that no one’s mentioned Cycle Oregon (or maybe I missed it):

http://www.cycleoregon.com

Week long ride, fully supported, plenty of food (many r iders report gaining weight at the end of the ride). Goes along with that “Oregon bikes with food” thing already mentioned. Sign up in February, but don’t dawdle as it sells out quickly.

But if you want Iowa, I’ll add my vote for RAGBRAI. I’ve never done it, but always have wanted to, and have heard lots of good things about it.
Comment by Leisa | 11.18.2010 | 8:13 pm

The KRISPY KREME CHALLENGE!!!!

http://krispykremechallenge.com/index.html

An annual student operated race in Raleigh, North Carolina benefiting the NC Children’s Hospital-held every February.
Beginning at the NC State Belltower, each runner runs 2 miles to the Krispy Kreme store. After downing a full dozen of the famous Krispy Kreme doughnuts, the runner must run the 2 miles back. All in one hour. Instead of tables of water there were tables and tables of boxed donuts that volunteers handed out!!
Drove 12 hours with friends to get there. Most hilarious and stupid race I’ve ever been to. We’re still talking about it!
Comment by Ken G | 11.18.2010 | 8:20 pm

My 2011 goal is to complete the Ironbutt 100, held in Memphis each June. The ride includes all the local trail systems (about 60 miles of singletrack) and all the road riding to get to each trail (about 40 miles). Last year, the riders rode through a storm and heard tornado sirens going off. Not hoping for that much excitement…

http://www.onelapofmemphis.com/
Comment by Jen Gatz | 11.18.2010 | 8:24 pm

The VT 50. MTB race, some of the hardest single track in Vermont. It’s the end of September every year, they severely limit the number of riders and it closes out in minutes. You can race as a SS or suspension.
Comment by thule | 11.18.2010 | 8:31 pm

here’s another plug for RAGBRAI (Iowa, July). 400+ miles of paved roads cleared of cars for us! entertainment and/or food is offered by every-other farmhouse, the pass-thru towns, and the overnite towns. and then there’s Team Gourmet: they travel with a gourmet chef. Lance could offer a critique.
Comment by Born 4Lycra | 11.18.2010 | 8:52 pm

Backing up TrifleFat get to Adelaide South Australia third week in January. Ride like Crazy 110km Sunday jan 16 follow the TDU during the week returning to Adelaide each night ride the tour on Friday Jan 21 150km approx stay for the end of TDU and then onto parts unknown as you work your way back to the USA. If not 2011 and 2012 is Goofy then 2013,

The International world of Cycling starts in Adelaide every year.

http://www.ridelikecrazy.com/
“raising money to fight cancer”

and

http://www.tourdownunder.com.au/

Not only that it’s Summer and the kids will have a ball.
Comment by mtb w | 11.18.2010 | 9:08 pm

I’ve been thinking about lasik but the halo effect is scary! Let us know how the healing goes, whether the halo effect gets better, etc.

And, as kenny said, go for a ride with your bros! Never leave your bros behind!
Comment by Adventure Monkey | 11.18.2010 | 9:12 pm

Your Royal Fatness,

A gravel grinder in the Midwest is something you haven’t yet attempted. The Dirty Kanza 200 is a most epic race for you. It is not for the lighthearted, but I am sure you could handle it. It is 200 miles in the last vast expanse of natural prairie in North America. It sounds like a walk in the park, but you will never think of Kansas the same again. Race in the hot, vast, desolate, hilly and most tire eating gravel you will ever find. Google it. Dirty Kanza 200. See you there.

official site
http://www.dirtykanza200.com/

My Report
http://www.theadventuremonkey.com/adventure-monkey/dirty-kanza-200-results-my-full-story/
Comment by Adventure Monkey | 11.18.2010 | 9:17 pm

Oh, and you could crash at my place too, for the DK200 that is.
Comment by roan | 11.18.2010 | 9:57 pm

I was going to mention “BC Bike Race”…at least twice already.
Levi has his GranFondo, LA has his Roses. Maybe it’s time for Fatty’s Big Adventure Ride. If I remember you have a lush lawn just waitng for hundreds of tents. Looking at a map…Alpine UT… the center of Austin, San Jose, Seattle, Portland…darn near the center of my cycling world(sorry Philly that’s a stretch).
But seriously the best comment is from kenny.
Comment by AK_Chick | 11.18.2010 | 9:59 pm

Hey Fatty,

That is awesome! Congrats on the eye surgery. Someday, I hope to take the LASIK plunge as I’m
VERY nearsighted, but also very freaked out by any medical procedure. And then there’s the money factor, but some day when I save up enough $$$ and I have a prescription for a very strong anti-anxiety med, I plan on having it done.

I really think you and the runner (and maybe the kids?) should visit Alaska. In the summer. We have the best marathon in the US IMHO (Mayors Midnight Sun Marathon: http://www.mayorsmarathon.com/ mostly flat course with several miles on a tank trail (part of the course is on military property). Chances of seeing moose and even bears are pretty good. The scenery and people are awesome. Also, we have several notable bike events: http://www.fireweed400.com/ (27,000 miles of elevatin gain if you do the 400!) and The Ride for Life where some funds go to Livestrong and is on one of the most beautiful courses and is a two day event http://www.rideforlifealaska.com/. Plus we have world class hiking and exploring up here. You could even stay with us, but that might be kind of weird since we’ve never met. You’ll be hard pressed to find a state with friendlier people. Also, if you stayed with us, my hubby is a master BBQer and we have a lot of red, silver, and king salmon in the fridge. Wild and not genetically modifed. :) And I make a great tour guide too.

Those are my ideas. For me, my goal is to start an Alaska Livestrong team with a friend who is a mega fundraiser (She’s ridden in all the Livestrong events and has made the Ride for the Roses in Austin more than once. I won’t be riding for Team Fatty, but Team Fatty will always have a place in my heart! I also plan to ride in the Fireweed 100 again and do the Ride for Life even though the elevation gain scares the crap out of me (I’m a hill wimp – they make me hurt and unable to take in enough oxygen so I sound like a freight train). My biggest goal will be saving up enough money to get a WSB Madone. :)

So, come to Alaska. You know that we had a fairly controverisal tourism campaign a few years back to visit Alaska B4UDIE. I think you and the Runner should do that.
Comment by Rich | 11.18.2010 | 10:02 pm

My big ride for 2011 is the PA perimeter ride against cancer. I lost my father 18 months ago, and am riding in his memory…

http://www.pprac.net/
Let me know if you want to donate.

Also, if you make it to PA for the wilderness 101, I live in State College, and will happily show you around Happy Valley. I’ve never done it, but it’s supposed to be an awesome ride.
Comment by Zed | 11.18.2010 | 10:07 pm

I think I start every year with a wishlist of maybe 9 or 10 races, and by the end of the year, I will have gotten two or three of them in.

That said, I’m debating doing a little running next year, specifically the Grand Teton 10k trail running race: http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/Races/Grand-Teton-Races

Awesome move going geared at Leadville. If your fitness is anywhere near where it was this past year, I’d say you have it in the bag.
Comment by AK_Chick | 11.18.2010 | 10:10 pm

Oh, just saw some wintery rides, well none can compare to Alaska’s winter race: http://www.alaskaultrasport.com/alaska_ultra_home_page.html

You need to put that one on your bucket list. :)
Comment by Bethany | 11.18.2010 | 10:22 pm

Reasons Hood to Coast in Oregon:
1.) It is incredibly beautiful. Course runs from Mount Hood to the Ocean and covers almost 200 miles.
2.) It is a relay race, which means that The Runner can run as fast as she wants and not have to wait for you.
3.) It benefits the American Cancer Society. Last year they raised 500k.
4.) After you finish, giant party on the beach.
5.) It is technically already sold out for 2011, but you are such an amazing, famous blogger, how awesome would it be to have bragging rights that you convinced the officials to let in a “celebrity” team?
Comment by MikeTK949 | 11.18.2010 | 10:27 pm

Let me add my plug for the Pan Mass Challenge in August – the largest athletic fundraiser in the world, supporting the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. There is nothing to compare to the logistics and support, route, and feel of riding with over 5,000 cyclists raising money to fight cancer. There are hundreds of teams that participate, and Team Fatty could go to the top of the fundraising list in 3 posts from you!
Comment by BamaJim | 11.18.2010 | 10:46 pm

Best wishes with the laser vision, it has worked well for me.

Not an epic event suggestion, but my daughter and I had great fun doing an adventure race for a change of pace. We did the coosa river challenge: http://www.coosariverchallenge.com/, but I’m sure there are lots of good events out in your neighborhood.
Comment by Hoggy | 11.18.2010 | 10:48 pm

I second Born 4Lycra’s suggestion about the Adelaide trip. not only can you do the excellent rides mentioned by Mr 4Lycra you could also do a whole bunch or regular rides with the group Mr 4Lycra and I ride in, plus there are daily rides with Phill Ligget during teh tour and your mate Lance will be doing his last pro tour race outside of the US. You can be on our table for the Legends Night Dinner http://www.tourdownunder.com.au/getinvolved/legends-night-dinner. cheers see you in OZ Jan 2011
Comment by Kronda | 11.18.2010 | 11:00 pm

I’m equally surprised no one has mentioned Mountain Bike Oregon http://www.mtbikeoregon.com

Your good friend Gary Fisher is pretty fond of the trails in Oakridge, OR. I’ve been three times and it’s pretty awesome. I think you and the Runner would both love it.
Comment by JamesHemi | 11.18.2010 | 11:00 pm

First time posting here.

Come ride the famous 6 Gap Century ride in NE GA. Some of the most difficult climbs from the Tour de Georgia. Approximately 2500 riders. Gorgeous East coast mountains. Cyclists from around the world show up for it. It is in September. It will be my first time in 2011. We run a summer camp (www.strongrockcamp.com) just a few minutes from the start. Bring the family and we will put all of you up for the weekend.

http://www.dahlonega.org/index.php/six-gap/three-gap-bike-ride.html

http://www.cyclenorthgeorgia.com/

It would be a joy to have you guys.
Comment by Brian | 11.18.2010 | 11:05 pm

Sea Otter Classic in April.
Comment by Classy. | 11.18.2010 | 11:12 pm

I agree TrifleFat and Born4Lycra, ride the Tour Down Under Community Challenge!!!

It’s not the longest of rides (130km) but it’s in Australia (which is awesome), I think Lance Armstrong is riding it as his last pro race outside the US (super awesome) and it’s all about raising money for cancer (don’t think I have to tell you how awesome that is).
Comment by CFMPLS | 11.18.2010 | 11:39 pm

surprise – ragbrai – come on even lance has ridden part of it and I hear his schedule this year will be a bit more open in July. Livestrong participates what if we could get 1,000 fatty riders to participate?
Comment by Miles Archer | 11.18.2010 | 11:48 pm

If you’re coming to do Livestrong in San Jose, I suppose I’ll have to do it too.
Comment by Miles Archer | 11.18.2010 | 11:48 pm

Oh, and I’m surprised that since you’re now an ironman you don’t have a bunch or open water swims on your calendar for next year.
Comment by Jeremy | 11.19.2010 | 12:40 am

+1 to Clydesteve’s plan.

LIVESTRONG Challenge may be a no go as they are now too far away to travel at the times they are listed due to my chosen profession’s lack of choice on time off. I’ll just have to find some other way to fly the Fatty orange.
Comment by Pedals Cycling | 11.19.2010 | 12:41 am

You should really be resting man. How long will it take for you to recuperate? As for a ride, I don;t have any. But my family fancies to go to NY this summer and I will never forgive myself if I don’t rent a bike and have a tour of the Central Park.
Comment by salittle1 | 11.19.2010 | 12:51 am

Ok… so 2 cycling events and 2 running events

13 March 2011 The worlds biggest timed bicycle race “Pick ‘n Pay Cape Argus Cycle tour” http://www.cycletour.co.za
April 2011 2 Oceans Marathon

- Both of these events are in Cape Town within a few weeks of each other. Brilliant family holiday and and to start of your year of activity.

May GABRAN (Great Annual Bicycle Ride Across Natal) this is a 3 day eating and drinking tour of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, where you ride you bike “by accident”

May Comrades Marathon – An utlra Marathon run along what is termed “The Route of Champions”

- Both of these events are in KwaZulu-Natal so again a good set up!

See you soon ;-)
Comment by Ingriddeke | 11.19.2010 | 1:26 am

If you plan a trup to Europe next year, what about the Transalp? Beautiful event you could do as a team with the runner.

http://www.bike-magazin.de/event/bike-transalp/?L=1
Comment by Jenn | 11.19.2010 | 1:30 am

Your September looks available…how about the Bodensee(Lake Constance) Rad-marathon? Your Swiss-German contingent would love to host a Team Fatty outing! http://www.bodensee-radmarathon.ch You’ll have to google-translate it, unless your German is way better than mine.
Comment by Jan | 11.19.2010 | 2:37 am

It’s time for the Fat Cyclist to come to the holy ground of cycling: Flanders. And ride the Tour of Flanders: its famous cobblestones, its short but steep hills, the rain, the wind, many thousands of cycling enthousiasts… All of that on Saturday April 3. And the good thing: after nursing your efforts on Saturday night with excellent food and the best beer the world has on offer, you can be a spectator of the real thing on Sunday when the pro’s ride their classic race and one million Belgians come out and crowd the parcours, eat more food and drink more beer. Ask your good friend Johan Bruyneel, he will tell you it doesn’t get any better. And maybe it’s a convenient time to launch that European chapter of the Team Fatty. I’m ready for it, are you?
Read all about the race here: http://sport.be.msn.com/cyclingtour/rondevanvlaanderen/2011/eng/
Comment by Richard | 11.19.2010 | 2:58 am

I know how much you love swimming so how about the world’s greatest open water swim – the Rottnest Channel Swim – http://www.rottnestchannelswim.com.au/
Comment by diamondjim | 11.19.2010 | 3:02 am

Go riding with your bros – at the Scott 24 in October
http://www.scott24hr.com.au
Get some great challenging MTB riding for 24 hours with thousands of your mates. Brilliant!
Comment by TimD | 11.19.2010 | 3:56 am

How about another famous UK sportif. This takes you over some of the most scenic and tough roads in the Lake District. If you want steep, this is it, 33% for Wrynose, 25% for Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands etc.

http://www.fredwhittonchallenge.org.uk/route.php
Comment by aussie kev | 11.19.2010 | 4:27 am

the M1 cycles thursday night “float” around town – sunny gladstone qld australia. you the runner and family most welcome to stay with us.

aussie kev
Comment by Jodi | 11.19.2010 | 5:01 am

Following up on the very first comment by The Real Doug, I think he means the Off Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell (ORAMM). The regular Assault is just a boring ole road ride, but ORAMM, now that is a challenge. It’s 63 miles off-road. Average finish times are around 7 – 8 hours, so it’s a tough 63 miles. Good training for Leadville! http://www.blueridgeadventures.net/oramm/default.html

Also, I’d suggest the 24 Hours of Booty, a Cancer fundraiser held in several cities – Charlotte NC, Atlanta GA, and Columbia MD. http://www.24hoursofbooty.org/site/PageServer
Comment by Saso | 11.19.2010 | 5:25 am

There is this event in July in France. I think it is called Tour de France.
Comment by afolks | 11.19.2010 | 5:41 am

Without a doubt, The Pisgah Mountain Bike Stage Race !
http://www.blueridgeadventures.net/stage/main.html
Comment by Don Piering | 11.19.2010 | 5:43 am

Fatty,

Consider The Iceman in Traverse City MI. http://www.iceman.com

It’s 30 miles (unofficially), point to point and the largest Mtn bike race in North America – over 3,500 riders attend. Registration fills up fast…VERY fast, so check it out and sign up if you can do it. It’s early November, so could even be 6″ of snow on the ground.
Comment by Bo | 11.19.2010 | 5:57 am

Come to Greenville, SC for the US Pro Championships and do the P3 Stars & Stripes Challenge!!! Better yet, ride with us from Greenville to Austin for the Challenge to Conquer Cancer!!!! http://www.p3ride.org.

Outside of that, the Assault on Mt. Mitchell (May in Greenville) , 3 State/3 Mountain (April in Chattanooga, TN), or 6 Gap (September in Dahlonega, GA) are all amazing rides!!!! Come see us in the Southeast!
Comment by brewcrew | 11.19.2010 | 7:26 am

I second the Iceman Cometh Challenge. Great atmosphere and a lot of fun. Alot of pros come out and it is great fun watching them on the course.
http://iceman.com/
http://singletrack.competitor.com/2010/11/features/life-as-a-bike-jockey-why-is-the-iceman-so-hot_11475
Comment by Jim | 11.19.2010 | 7:34 am

Fool’s Gold 50 or 100 mile MTB race and festival in Dahlonega, GA. Held in August. I’ve not done this one but hope to in 2011. I here good things. On-site lodging with a party like atmosphere all weekend. Free beer from some local brewerys.
Comment by Rich | 11.19.2010 | 7:38 am

I’m also voting for the Iceman. Would love to have you guys visit Michigan!
Comment by Ripkenfan | 11.19.2010 | 7:58 am

I believe you should do the Unnamed Epic here in Wisconsin. It’s a 75mi mountain bike race from Mineral Point, WI to Blue Mounds State Park, just outside of Madison. 2011 will be the second year that it is run. It has a road, bike trail and single track riding all in one. It also has 6,000 ft of elevation, probably a little easy for your massive quads I know. I rode it last year and the final 22mi are pretty much single track exclusively and they hurt. It’s is likely to be at the end of August, so it’s a perfect Leadville recovery ride for you. Check it out here:

http://www.unnamedepic.com/
Comment by Joost | 11.19.2010 | 7:58 am

without a doubt: La Marmotte, June 2 2011 (France): 175km including Col du Glandon, Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier and finish at Alpe d’Huez. 500m climbing in total.

http://www.sportcommunication.info/web2010/epreuve2.php?langue=2&trophee=128
Comment by Dan | 11.19.2010 | 8:04 am

The Dakota five-o. 50 mile lollypop loop in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It’s a spectacular mountain bike ride with tons of single track. It’s on the Sunday before Labor Day.

http://dakotafiveo.com/
Comment by Bleeder | 11.19.2010 | 8:11 am

You should try out TOSRV (http://www.tosrv.org/) It’s not a race but it’s still a ton of fun. its a two day down and back ride starts in columbus, Ohio goes down to the ohio river (103 miles) Saturday and back to columbus on Sunday. They had close to 3k people ride it last year and it is the 50th anniversary next year so should be a blast.
Comment by Mark in Boise | 11.19.2010 | 8:35 am

Great post, a one stop shop for all kinds of races. I will have to check out a ton of the links. For your consideration a couple of races in nearby Ideeeho for you. First off the Race Robie Creek, the “toughest half marathon in the northwest”. It fills up pretty fast, usually in the first 24 hours or less. A 13.1 mile slog through the foothills next to Boise, 8.5 climb followed by a 4.6 mile screaming descent! Great fun (once you are done!)http://www.robiecreek.com/. Follow that up with a great endurance ride just outside Boise. The Knobby Tire Series 9 to 5 Eight hour endurance ride. A 9.4 mile loop that is single speed friendly if you are so inclined. http://www.knobbytireseries.com/925poster.pdf Another long distance ride would be the Galena Grinder held near Sun Valley Idaho. High elevation with an xc or marathon option. http://www.knobbytireseries.com/Galena%20Grinder%20Flyer%202010%20Legal.pdf A couple of races in Oregon haven’t been mentioned would be The Cascade Cream Puff and the High Cascades 100. http://www.mudslingerevents.com/mountain-bike-races/high-cascades-100/ and http://www.cascadecreampuff.com/ Hope this helps.
Comment by Oli | 11.19.2010 | 8:38 am

New to your site, like it. Connected by dcrainmaker.

Two rides for consideration. Mountains of Misery, Blacksburg,VA on Memorial Day offers a pair of options: Century or Double Metric, either of which will provide an entertaining 10k plus of climb, great views and terrific support.

http://www.cyclingdoubleheader.com/mountains-of-misery

Another great ride, but not for the distance or difficulty, is the World T.E.A.M Sports “Face of America” ride to support wounded vets.

http://worldteamsports.org/events/face-of-america/

DC to Gettysburg over two days and as rewarding an event as you will find.

Happy T’giving.
Comment by Brant | 11.19.2010 | 8:39 am

So RAGBRAI has been mentioned a few times. But I just attened an info meeting last night about a ride across Iowa in one day ride.

Roughly 280 miles on one day. Fully supported. Looking at a May ride date. Money will be raised for a cause and while nothing is in stone yet we have a group in mind.

No formal online info yet so if your interested you would have to e-mail me.
Comment by Jennifer | 11.19.2010 | 9:03 am

Come to Emporia and do the Dirty Kanza!!!
Comment by Stuart T | 11.19.2010 | 9:07 am

A trip to Europe with perhaps a marathon thrown in for good measure?

The Paris marathon (April 10th 2011 – http://www.parismarathon.com/index_us.html) would be a worthy choice. It’s flat, picturesque and fast with more opportunities than most for post race cake enjoyment.

All the best for ‘11.
Comment by Jeffy | 11.19.2010 | 9:10 am

Hey Fatty – Laramie Enduro was a great ride. A friend did the Ruta de los Conquistadores MTB stage race – epic and you get to go to Costa Rica!

http://larutadelosconquistadores.com/info/
Comment by Ross | 11.19.2010 | 9:26 am

Here’s one from my tick-list, American Zofingen Duathlon. 5.0 mile trail run / 84.0 mile road bike / 15.0 mile trail run. All the suffering and none of the swimming.

http://www.americanzofingen.racesonline.com/
Comment by Giel | 11.19.2010 | 9:36 am

I’ll keep it short: Cycle to the Sun. On Maui, in August. Ride from sea level to the top of the Haleakala vulcano crater. 36 miles, 10,023 vertical feet. Pure awesomeness. And so incredibly beautiful. On race day you can’t ride your bike down, but you can put in a training ride to the top some days before, of course.
Comment by stevea | 11.19.2010 | 9:41 am

Do some strength training this winter, it’s a nice change from the arobic “treadmill” (ha – I slay myself).

1. Three days/ week – leaves time for holiday stuff
2. If done properly, will help alleviate the lack of flexibility you complained about in the massage article.
3. Strength might put you over the top (or under the limit) at Leadville.

Look at “Starting Strength” by Mark Rippetoe, and the “Stronglifts 5×5 program” (online) and consider getting a coach. People are right – you CAN hurt yourself doing Squats!
(if you don’t, though – you’ll never find a way to get strong faster).
Comment by deepbrook | 11.19.2010 | 9:51 am

I am DEFINITELY bookmarking this page–great ideas all over the place.

One that I’ll add (I looked and didn’t see it, apologies if this is duplication) is the Harpoon Brewery to Brewery ride on June 18, 2011. 150 miles and beer at the end. Begins in Boston, ends in Vermont, with an after-party (of course) and transportation back.
http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/index.cfm/pid/28553
Comment by pmiranda | 11.19.2010 | 9:54 am

February looks open…
LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon!
If you don’t train you might be as slow as me :-)
Comment by Andrew | 11.19.2010 | 10:04 am

Funny you should mention next year. I’ve been thinking about it the last couple of days as I’ve ate my weight in pre-Thanksgiving treats (off to Texas Roadhouse tonight for the anniversary—I’m sure I’ll order an appetizer AND a dessert…)

Anyway, I made a semi-successful attempt at riding the Umpqua River Trail (60+ miles of Oregon singletrack) in October. A number of things contributed to me not finishing it. I’m considering doing it again—this time with some actual single-track specific training.
Comment by Andrew | 11.19.2010 | 10:06 am

Here’s a picture that works…
Comment by crystal | 11.19.2010 | 10:14 am

dk200 yes, yes, and yes!
Comment by Brian | 11.19.2010 | 10:15 am

Try the Iceman Cometh Challenge in Michigan. ~30 Mile MTB race at the outset of winter in the Traverse City Area.
http://www.iceman.com/
Comment by rich | 11.19.2010 | 10:28 am

You’ve ridden it … now run it! Compete locally in September.
http://www.mountaintrails.org/2009/03/mid-mountain-marathon-september/
Comment by Rob | 11.19.2010 | 10:39 am

The DeathRide and STP are both good tune ups for Leadville, about a month prior. (I’d do the Death Ride hands down. STP isn’t even close). But the best one I’ve found as a tune up is the Cascade Cream Puff. Doesn’t have the altitude, but harder than Leadville, more climbing, more single track, more suffering. Great race, great support, in Central OR.

Also, check your spam folder, I had sent an e-mail a few weeks ago with a fundraising opportunity for you with regards to Leadville.
Comment by buckythedonkey | 11.19.2010 | 10:39 am

Now that you can see, maybe it’s time to enjoy the view from some of those cols whose names you know so well. Maybe ride the Etape, the Marmotte, a Gran Fondo, the Pyrenees Coast-to-Coast, watch the Tour/Giro/Vuelta, ride Paris-Roubaix, climb the Stelvio, etc, etc, etc.

In 2011 pick up your passport (you do have a passport, don’t you?) and use it!
Comment by buckythedonkey | 11.19.2010 | 10:39 am

I am sure your chums in Trek Travel would be delighted to help…
Comment by andy | 11.19.2010 | 10:44 am

gotta repeat the iceman suggestion. i’ve done it for years and watching the pros come through is a ton of fun. plus brad can join you fairly easily.
Comment by smrat | 11.19.2010 | 10:46 am

I would second the Death Ride in Tahoe. 130 mi road ride, tons of climbing, (which also means tons of descending!), amazing views, tons of enthusiastic people.

Here’s a vid of one of the descents:
Monitor Pass descent
Comment by Vance | 11.19.2010 | 11:10 am

Another plug for the Harpoon B2B in June 2011. Fantastic ride and Harpoon Beer. Newtons Revenge is also something to consider, up MT Wash in July…do it!

http://www.newtonsrevenge.com/
Comment by Al | 11.19.2010 | 11:11 am

Looks like Team Fatty members have supplied you with an awesome selection of MTB rides so I’ll offer something to lend a little balance here for the sake of the Runner if nothing else. The Grand Canyon is truly an amazing place to experience up close and personal and for great atheletes like you and the Runner, I can’t think of anything better than a Grand Canyon Rim-Rim-Rim run in the fall of the year.

Here’s a link to a blog that describes the experience:
http://www.clubfatass.com/blog/ean-jackson/grand-canyon-rim-to-rim-to-rim-initial-highlights. You’ll note that there is a certain club mentioned that fits right in with the name of this group.
Comment by evil3 | 11.19.2010 | 11:35 am

I got a race for you that takes place in northern MI. It is a mountain bike race that takes you over hills (there are no mountains in MI). The race this past year was on Nov. 6 (so it was the same weekend as the NYC marathon witch might cause issues).

Another reason to race it as you have guys like Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski who take part in it

For 2011 it will be held on Saturday November 5th.

I would say it is a race to attend during the fall in the ever changing weather of the northern Midwest states that might give you snow or be in the 50-60 F at that time.

You can find more info from their site at:
http://www.iceman.com/
Comment by Anastasia (Staci)--RAGBRAI alias | 11.19.2010 | 1:04 pm

RAGBRAI!! RAGBRAI!! RAGBRAI!!! Ride with the Livestrong team. It’s a great challenge as well as an amazing, life changing experience. Beans and corn. Corns and beans. The nicest people on earth, and more fun than the law should allow. You’ll Love, love, LoVe it, and your readers will love hearing about what you make of the experience. C’mon!!!! Sign up today!!!!
Comment by Geo | 11.19.2010 | 1:47 pm

With all the mentions can someone organize a Team Fatty RAGBRAI group?

That has been in my mind and next year’s edition is my training goal. If work and family commitments allow it i’m hoping to ride it.

Perhaps the organizers would set aside a block of positions for Fatty since you have to try individual or get your whole team in on the draw.
Comment by Jake | 11.19.2010 | 2:11 pm

Horribly Hilly Hundreds. June 18, 2011. Check out the website http://www.horriblyhilly.com

Lottery style entry (or was in the past. The claim to have big changes coming I only assume is related to registration). It’s set in Blue Mounds, WI. Nothing but climbing.
Comment by John | 11.19.2010 | 2:20 pm

D2R2!!!!!

http://www.franklinlandtrust.org/randonnee.html
Comment by Amy | 11.19.2010 | 3:40 pm

I see that lots of people already beat me on suggesting Iceman.

So, here’s another great MI race, Lumberjack: http://www.lumberjack100.com/
Comment by Turn The Damn Cranks | 11.19.2010 | 3:43 pm

Probably too easy, but consider the Seagull Century in Salisbury, MD. It’s on Oct. 15, so it will be a nice post-GrandFondo ride. Over 8000 riders this year. Incredibly well run. Admittedly, it’s pancake flat. So why would a man with quads such as yours participate? Because there probably aren’t any other rides that take you to an island on which wild horses roam. This year I passed by two adults and a colt that were all of three feet from me. Amazing.

http://www.seagullcentury.org/
Comment by Bill | 11.19.2010 | 3:47 pm

I have to second the L’Étape du Tour. Col du Galibier and Alpe D’Huez with 10,000+ feet of climbing in 67 miles. I have already signed-up.

http://www.letapedutour.com/
Comment by Danny B | 11.19.2010 | 3:48 pm

I 4th the LOTOJA. I am no pro rider but I did it last year and it was crazy. Long day in the saddle but the Tetons never looked so beautiful.
Comment by Lglegl | 11.19.2010 | 3:59 pm

I have to also plug the Vermont 50.

http://www.vermont50.com/

The bonus is that you get to ride right past our deck, where we will heckle– I mean CHEER — you to victory!
Comment by Danny B | 11.19.2010 | 4:03 pm

There is an easy way past the lottery for LOTOJA. Huntsman Hometown Heros. You just have to raise $1000 for cancer. Should not be a challange for you.
Comment by Eric T. | 11.19.2010 | 4:04 pm

There is a relay called the American Odessey Relay that runs from Gettysburg, PA to Washington, DC in April. If you organize a Team Fatty entry, I would be in. http://www.americanodysseyrelay.com/
Comment by Peg | 11.19.2010 | 4:52 pm

RAGBRAI IS SO MUCH FUN! The year my husband completed it, the route went right past my mom’s house. My younger daughter gave away treats and took donations for LIVESTRONG. The LIVESTRONG team invited her to come meet everyone and see the bus. It was an incredible experience for the entire family.
Comment by BikeCopMO | 11.19.2010 | 6:36 pm

Elden,

This is a personal favorite of mine. The Harpoon B2B ride is a 146 mile ride from Boston, MA to Windsor, VT. It travels through several small towns and some very beautiful New England countryside.

http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/index.cfm/page/About-The-Ride/pid/84901

It is very well supported but not for the faint of heart. You would love it.
Comment by Jarral | 11.19.2010 | 8:06 pm

My wife reads your posts religiously and doesn’t even like to ride a bike–she runs. She thinks it’s funny I guess. So she said I should put up a couple of my favorites. To get you going for Pbville try the Gunnison Growler. 70mi, mostly single track, get a beer growler at end and put on by Dave Wiens. http://gunnisontrails.com/ And Leadville will get you warmed up for the Vaportrail 125 out of Salida CO in Sept. http://vaportrail125.com/ 125 mi, starts at 10pm and climbs 20000ft over the continental divide several times and lots of killer singletrack. Can you say Crest trail after 80miles?
Comment by Sean | 11.19.2010 | 8:50 pm

Flint Hills Death Ride – ~80 miles on some hilly gravel roads in central Kansas
http://flinthillsdeathride.com/

or for a real challenge Dirty Kanza – 200 miles of gravel racing in central Kansas
http://www.dirtykanza200.com/ I’ve never done this one but I would do if you would.
Comment by Lisa | 11.19.2010 | 9:23 pm

How about just a regular ride? You know, take the kids out. Average 12 mph. Stop for ice cream. Those are my best rides. The rides that remind me of why I ride. Now it’s with my 63 year old mom who just fell in love with her bike again. Hubby and I “Bike for Beef” here in Northern Illinois. 40 miles round trip on a trail for a beef sandwich and excellent fries.

Hubby had PRK done a few years ago and couldn’t watch your video. Same procedure but they completely remove the cornea (I think that’s it, whatever part they cut the flap in for your surgery). Hope you have a quick recovery.
Comment by Nurse Betsy | 11.19.2010 | 9:38 pm

Eye of the Tiger…..heeheehee.
I did lasik surgery 5yrs ago, ceiling tile never looked so good. I cried like a baby. So glad I did it. Still have to wear readers, but at least I can see the alarm clock now!!!!! Congrats.

Seattle to Portland, STP ride.
Comment by bfeltovi | 11.19.2010 | 10:31 pm

Close to home: the Moab Gran Fondo was a ton of fun last year…great loop into and over the La Sal mountains. Early in the season (first week of May this year, I think), so it makes a nice motivator.

Midwest: the Almanzo 100 is a small gravel race that covers some beautiful terrain in SE Minnesota. Run by nice folks and it’s FREE!
Comment by GoodTexan | 11.19.2010 | 10:33 pm

Another plug for the Hotter’n Hell Hundred in Wichita Falls, TX. 14,000+ riders, great support, and bragging rights for finishing in the the Texas heat in August. And I believe it is the largest century in the U.S.
Comment by Jenn | 11.19.2010 | 10:53 pm

LOVE this list!

I also love that someone has mentioned KCIBR (Kluane-Chilkat International Bike Race) – http://www.kcibr.org/
I don’t care that much for riding on the road but c’mon – this one goes from the Yukon to Alaska! Scenery is spectacular and the riders are super fun!

OR – come to the Yukon’s 24 Hours of Light. What must be the most RELAXED 24 hour “race” (we call it a festival) is on the summer solstice weekend and the only rule is that you can’t use a light. It’s in Whitehorse Yukon and it’s where I first met Jill Homer. LOTS of fun and you can crash at our place:

http://24hoursoflight.ca/main.html
Comment by Blue Shirt | 11.19.2010 | 11:05 pm

First of all, you need an event that will justify a new bike. From my understanding, your fleet is completely lacking in the fender, mudflaps, lights and bags department.

Second, you could use more trinkets. Who couldn’t?

Third, you don’t want to make this too easy, do you?

2011 Fatty’s first super randonneur series.

You know you want to.

We will send wool.
Comment by CZ | 11.20.2010 | 1:11 am

El Tour de Tucson; road; 110 miles and 8,000 entrants. Great event and held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year.
Comment by Steph | 11.20.2010 | 5:28 am

Doug beat me to it, in post #1. Here is the link to the Assault on Mt Mitchell, though. A friend at work told me about it – http://www.freewheelers.info/aomm/pages/faqs.html

We’ve been at Disney for Goofy marathon weekend while I did the half and a friend did his first full. Great weekend – Disney puts on a stellar event and then you have plenty of good food and walking around to recover with. : )
Comment by celery | 11.20.2010 | 5:41 am

No Ironman triathlon? You should! If for no other reason that to read your reports about them. They were great! :)
Comment by Mark in Boise | 11.20.2010 | 7:39 am

I just thought of another ride that my older brother does in Illinois. Tour de Stooges. A road bike ride with different options for how far you want to ride.

http://stooges.rogerkramercycling.org/

A correction from my earlier comment, it should be Race TO Robie Creek. My bad. 2500 runner limit with a great party afterwards. Point to Point, with shuttles back to town, a very well organized run. They have a quirky theme every year.
Comment by bobby | 11.20.2010 | 8:17 am

Dear Fatty.

200 miles…all gravel…one day…kansas

this all equals

Dirty Kanza 200.

seriously, check it out. it’s the best of the best of the best gravel grinder in the country. and put on by the best people ever. you will not be disappointed if you decide to try on this race. just like your lasik eye surgery, it’s not for the weak hearted..
Comment by davidh-marin,ca | 11.20.2010 | 10:11 am

Over 200 comments, if Fatty has time to read them all I feel for his Family. I’m with Geo and Anastasia (Staci). Rode with the LIVESTRONG team n ‘09 and it was a fantastic experience. We encountered several families along the route fighting their child’s battle against cancer, and we had other families visit and talk with us at the evening meeting. It reminds us all we are in this together Thinking about taking my 9 ear old on a tandem this year and if there is a Team Fatty contingent aligned with LIVESTRONG I’m definitely in. Iowa is almost as central as Alpine for a Fatty get together.
Comment by ohmypolarbear | 11.20.2010 | 10:44 am

I second Jodi’s recommendation for 24 Hours of Booty:

http://www.24hoursofbooty.org

It’s like the 100 Miles of Nowhere, but for crazy people.

I especially recommend the Columbia, MD one, which is closest to me!
Comment by ck1 | 11.20.2010 | 11:50 am

Hi Fatty,

Long time reader, first time commentor. Love the blog.

I think I’ve got a race for you. Not too long ago you spent time showing your skills with Team RadioShack in the Tucson mountains. Well just north of Mt Lemon (that big mountain you pulled Lance up) is a race called the Kona 24 Hours at the Old Pueblo.

http://www.epicrides.com/twofour/24.htm

Takes place during Presidents Day weekend. Awesome vibe to the race, the rule is “be nice”. Everybody is cool, faster riders patiently wait for a chance to pass slower riders, Tinker and Dave W. are regulars. 24 Hour Town is a blast and the trails are Kobe beef good.
Comment by ck1 | 11.20.2010 | 12:12 pm

Watch the video: http://vimeo.com/9612350
Comment by @PeckishCyclist | 11.20.2010 | 12:37 pm

Just had to say how thrilled I am that you’ll be at the Bay Area LiveStrong Challenge! Go Team Fatty!
Comment by MikeL | 11.20.2010 | 2:07 pm

In the backyard: I would recommend the Moab Skinny Tire Century Tour in September. Do the Big Nasty climb or the Colorado River Road. Plus the ride also benefits local and national Cancer fighting organizations. The organizers also put on a heck of a post ride party.
Comment by Jac | 11.20.2010 | 6:17 pm

What about the Six Gap Century in Georgia.

http://www.cyclenorthgeorgia.com/

OR

If you really want to challenge yourself, try the Iditarod Trail Invitational. You can run, ski or bike the route.

http://www.alaskaultrasport.com/alaska_ultra_home_page.html
Comment by Kyle (aka slowcyclist) | 11.20.2010 | 9:53 pm

Here’s my list:

Feb. 27 Chiily Hilly http://www.cascade.org/EandR/chilly/index.cfm

June 5th Fort 2 Fort Metric http://fort2fortride.org/ Small but great ride.

July 30 Seattle Century http://seattlecentury.com/ Awesome food

Oct 1st. Ellensburg Manashtash Metric http://www.drier-ride.org/

Possibly a few others depending on time.

Maybe Seattle to Portland RIde in July.
Comment by John | 11.21.2010 | 2:01 am

I highly recommend the Sea Otter Classic in April for a number of reasons

1. It’s held in Monterey California.
2. There is almost every type of bike race at the same event.
3. There is a huge bike festival along with all the great racing.
4. Did I mention it’s in Monterey?
5. Really, Monterey is beautiful, you should come see it.
Comment by LeLan Dains | 11.21.2010 | 8:13 am

It can not be said enough, the Dirty Kanza 200 should be top of your list.

http://www.dirtykanza200.com/
Comment by Corey | 11.21.2010 | 9:49 am

How about a 5 person co-ed Team Fatty entry for 24 Hours of Moab in October?
Comment by Clydesteve | 11.21.2010 | 11:05 am

Fatty – The only thing that could have improved upon “Eye of the Tiger” as a music choice for your Lasik video would be if you had found a musak dentist;s office version.
Comment by Alyson | 11.21.2010 | 3:33 pm

Seattle to Portland ride.

Ironman Championship ~ Hawaii

Comrades Marathon ~ South Africa [56 miles]
http://www.comrades.com/

Antartic marathon ~ fully booked for 2011, 2012 but maybe you can get in coz you are “special”.:-)
http://www.marathontours.com/index.cfm?pid=10734

Let us know how well the Lasik worked when you are better.
Comment by Jenni | 11.21.2010 | 4:05 pm

I’m in for RAGBRAI 2011 and we need to have a Team Fatty. I don’t see the name already registered, (teams aren’t allowed to start a name with “Team”), and Fatty is listed, though not Fat Cyclist.

Has someone already started a team there for us to join and named it Fatty?
Comment by Kim | 11.21.2010 | 4:34 pm

Enchanted Circle Century – Red River, NM. September 10, 2011

Moab Century Tour – Moab, UT. September 16, 2011.
Comment by sunny | 11.21.2010 | 4:46 pm

Up Provo Canyon from the mouth, turn at Vivian Park and head for Big Springs if you’re up for the challenge and back down – you’ll coast all the way – best part of the trip. lol
Comment by Eric | 11.21.2010 | 7:23 pm

Tour of the Gila or Signal Peak Challenge or BOTH!!
Southwest New Mexico could use a little Fatty!
Comment by Laura | 11.21.2010 | 8:09 pm

I’m signed up for the NYC-DC Climate Ride (May 13-17) and raising money for a few environmental-oriented organizations in the process. Raising money.. not my thing. I think to your website for inspiration.

Then Escarpment Run (Catskills NY) – 18 mile trail run

and Timberman 70.3 on Aug 21.

It’s going to be a great year!
Comment by James | 11.21.2010 | 8:14 pm

We have a low key 6/12 hour mtn bike race Columbus Day weekend at Council Bluff trail. About 1.5 hours southeast of St. Louis around the Mark Twain Forest. Plenty of brats, margaritas, and bike racing. 14 mile laps around a lake. No long climbs, but all single track and rocky. The traditional end of the season event before cross starts up. Maybe we can get Brad from CarboRocket to come down too. You come and we will get you a rigid engle speed to ride and all the brats you can eat.
Comment by Peter | 11.21.2010 | 8:38 pm

Well, it’ll conflict with your plan to run in the Death Valley marathon, but put this one on your 2012 list: The Reggae Marathon, in Negril, Jamaica. Usually held the first weekend of December.
http://www.reggaemarathon.org/
Comment by PJ | 11.21.2010 | 10:07 pm

Another vote for the CA Death Ride. Spectacular location, great organization. If you happen to be in Europe in June/July, you gotta try the Northern Italian Maratona dles Dolomites (my goal in 2011) and la Marmotte in France (including Galibier and l’Alpe d’Huez.
Comment by Denise Brooks | 11.22.2010 | 12:00 am

I got Lasik 1.5 years ago in my right eye only and NOW I CAN SEE LEAVES IN THE TREES!!!! I was warned that it could make me get motion sickness or that I just wouldn’t be able to live with it but I love it. :) I reAd with my left eye and see far away (clearly) with my right eye. Best of both worlds.
Comment by Kyle | 11.22.2010 | 1:59 am

Wisconsin isn’t know for it’s hills, but there are a couple of challenging rides in the southwestern part of the state that are sure to kick some people’s butts. Try the Dairyland Dare. From 50k-300k of riding with anywhere between 3300 ft of climbing to 20,300 ft of climbing (http://www.dairylanddare.com/). Part of the course is part of the proposed course for the Olympic road race if Chicago had gotten the bid for 2016. Robbie Ventura helped design the course after courses in Illinois were deemed not tough enough (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/28/sports/cycling/28wisconsin.html).

Seriously, Wisco is the place to be for road cycling in the summertime. Beautiful roads, beautiful weather, understanding motorists, and miles upon miles upon miles of open country road!
Comment by Jake | 11.22.2010 | 8:15 am

Sorry Fatty, I didn’t take the time to check all the comments to see if this was already recommended and you have a lot of posts to read. However, being a local, you should really check out this race. It definitely fits the “different” aspect you are looking for.

The Moab Xstream Adventure Race.
http://www.gravityplay.com/adventureracing/moab.html

Mountain biking, Kayaking, Rapelling, and Trail Running with a small amount of navigation included. You can do it as a Duo team with the Runner or as two Solos. You do the same course and events regardless of how you choose to do it.

I’ve done it the last two years with my dad and brothers and highly recommend it.
Comment by PMinDC | 11.22.2010 | 10:13 am

Check out the Total 200! 200 miles in one day in East Coast heat and humidity. http://total200.com/
Comment by dakotagirl | 11.22.2010 | 10:49 am

I had lasik 9 months ago and went from 20/200 vision to 20/20. Awesome!
Comment by Kate | 11.22.2010 | 1:12 pm

Great Wall Half Marathon and Marathon on China! May 2011.
Comment by Chris | 11.22.2010 | 2:19 pm

PMBAR – My teammate and I almost finished last year. We took a trail just because we hadn’t ridden it, instead of taking the faster gravel road that would have yielded a non-DNF placement. Besides, Team Dicky rides it and it would be cool to see my two fav bike bloggers in the same race. Race is capped at 100 teams – pisgahproductions.com

As far as the LASIK, best thing I’ve ever done in my life. That and Tivo. The halo thing goes away pretty quick. Impress your friends by reading No Parking signs 4 blocks away.
Comment by Mary | 11.22.2010 | 3:04 pm

I’ve got 3 suggestions for you:

If you are feeling adventurous (or you want to have a “what was I thinking” moment):

North Shore Inline Marathon Sept 17, 2011-Duluth, MN
http://grandmasmarathon.com/site/

Or:

Grandma’s 35th Marathon June 16-18, 2011-Duluth,MN
http://grandmasmarathon.com/site/

Either of the above has the additional bonus of flying in to Minneapolis and visiting the guys at Twin Six. Or if you really want to visit someplace extraordinarily beautiful and off the beaten track try this:

Ore to Shore Mountain Bike Epic, August 13th, 2011
Marquette, Michigan
http://www.oretoshore.com/

The race above is not going to be the longest one you will find but I would bet you would be hard pressed to find a race that would result in more raw material for your blog. (read into that lots of “interesting” characters)

Good luck!
Comment by Dirk dB | 11.22.2010 | 4:08 pm

Try this: http://www.hardcoere100.com/
A mountain bike century with 20,000 feet of climbing, a pure loop of 100 miles (no laps), in Henry Coe State Park in California (2011/10/1). Kept pretty low profile this year, but next year we plan on going bigger (and raise some funds for good causes).
Comment by Arienna | 11.22.2010 | 5:40 pm

Hurray! 24 Hours of Booty! :D I’m hoping to field a team of girls to ride that as my first long race – is anyone else doing the Charlotte, NC ride? I’d love to see some Team Fatty people.
Comment by IanF | 11.23.2010 | 8:59 am

There’s a little known event in the UK called the Dunwich Dynamo. It basically involves riding 120miles through the night from Hackney, East London, to a small village on the Suffolk Coast called Dunwich.
It’s fairly informal, and you get all sorts doing it, from all-out racers to granddads on folding bikes. Following a long line of flashing red lights through the winding country lanes as bats flit about overhead is quite magical and the event has a brilliant atmosphere.
Watching the sunrise on the beach while eating a full English breakfast is pretty hard to beat :-)
http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/content/dunwich-dynamo
Comment by RB | 11.23.2010 | 10:05 am

The seagull century on the eastern shore of Maryland. http://www.seagullcentury.org/

Flat, but really beautiful. There are a couple of different routes. Go through rural areas to the beach and then have some fresh seafood.
Comment by Patrick | 11.23.2010 | 10:24 am

at the time of writing there are 235 comments, i haven’t got the time to check if anyone has mentioned the Etape du Tour, you get to ride up Alpe d’Huez…
Comment by Evelin B | 11.23.2010 | 11:44 am

You should try Le Race in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is the end of March every year. Go to lerace.co.nz. Great time. I have done it the last 4 years and doing again next year. It falls on march 26th, 2011. Also the Graperide in Blenheim, New Zealand. That falls on April 2nd, 2011. Great rides here in New Zealand both on road and off road.
Comment by Orbea Girl | 11.23.2010 | 12:41 pm

Fly over to the South of France and ride 175km (2500m of climbing) race in memory of Andrei Kivilev with Alex Vinokourov, and a few hundred others. It’s on 28 May, the weather’s usually great, the parcour’s fantastic and you get to eat some of my delicious cakes when you finish. What more could you ask for?
Comment by Aaron Dawson | 11.23.2010 | 3:47 pm

Fatty! You need to check out the Off-road Assault on Mt Mitchell near Asheville, NC. For that matter, any of the events from Blue Ridge Adventures are awesome. http://www.blueridgeadventures.net/ Bring your singletrack skills. Sweet NC singletrack is awesome! Let me know if you make it over here. Make a trip out of it. Asheville is really nice.

By the way, nice work at Leadville this year.

Aaron Dawson
Comment by Brady in Blaine | 11.23.2010 | 3:53 pm

http://ironmanbikeride.org/
No, it’s not a triathlon. This will be the 45th anniversary. Usually held the last Sunday in April, but because of Easter they moved it a week later. Nothing beats late winter (April/May isn’t spring in MN) riding. The event is held regardless of the weather. Snow, sleet, torrential downpours. Says a lot about Minnesotans and their love of bikes to be out riding in that.
Comment by Barb | 11.23.2010 | 8:01 pm

Wish I could give you some suggestions on rides but I’m a runner that happens to own a bike….a bike that gets dusted off for RFTR each year. But, I’ll be busy running in 2011. I’m planning on running a half each month with the exception of March & Nov when I’ll be running fulls on Team LiveStrong. Calling it my “Coast to Coast LiveStrong 2011 Tour.” Starting in Vegas in December, doing an indoor half in Milwaukee in January, Austin (can’t pass up a reason to go to ATX!)or NOLA in Feb, LA Marathon in March, Louisville or Champaign, IL in April, Pittsburh (Team LAF again) in May, something in Chicago in June, still looking for a July, another Chicago in August, Rochester, NY (to visit family) in September, LiveStrong Challenge in October (adding an extra 26 miles to my normal 45 mile ride), and then NYC Marathon in November.

Doubt I’ll be nearly as fast as you and the Runner….trying to get in training with three kids is tough but the thought of doing it for LiveStrong and cancer awareness will keep me going,. Those we’ve lost to cancer were in a lot more pain and agony than I’ll feel running.

Let me know if you need to fit in an extra run!
Comment by Jen | 11.23.2010 | 11:02 pm

The Dempsey Challenge!!
http://www.dempseychallenge.org/
Comment by Nick | 11.24.2010 | 8:28 am

I’ll 15th the Iceman. A great race and great party!

http://www.iceman.com/
Comment by Paula | 11.24.2010 | 12:33 pm

Come and join us in South Florida for the Miami Man half iron event on 11/13/11. It is held at a great park and you run through the Miami Zoo during your 13.1. It is a great event with a very friendly atmosphere….you’ll be close to the Keys when you are done so you can scoot down there for a sunset in Mallory Square (not to be missed)!
Comment by Arno | 11.25.2010 | 11:07 am

You have to try the Abu Dhabi Triathlon in United Arab Emirates. It has a monster of a bike leg but you get to ride around the awesome F1 Yas Circuit. 2011 will be the second year and 2010 had a massive positive response.

Check out their website http://www.abudhabitriathlon.com/

Arno
Comment by David Richardson | 11.27.2010 | 9:25 am

I agree with Jenn, come ride the Whiskey. I have ridden all over the Southwest, and this is my favorite.

http://epicrides.com/wor/wor.htm
Comment by Raph | 11.29.2010 | 8:13 pm

Do the Grand Raid in the Swiss Alps. Aug 19th-20th http://www.grand-raid.ch/en/home and combine it with a trip to climb the famous tour de France cols nearby. Madeleine, Galibier, Telegraphe, Alpe d Huez, Croix de Fer, Iseran, col de la Colombiere

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