Gravel ride to Shannon, IL from Oregon on some of the nicest gravel to be found. Meet up at the parking lot of the Paddlewheel in and try your hand at some gravel. This is not a RUSA event. There are no controls or time limits, just lots of fun.
Route is through beautiful rolling farmland of northern Illinois. Gravel was not deep at all, and very fast rolling. Made a quick stop at half way at Caseys to refill water.
Second half had rain and a strong headwind. Was making decent time until a puncture around mile 52. A very generous local helped me change the tube, a net positive event in my view.
Despite the setbacks, managed to just beat the time limit, 6:39, with a time of 6:16. 5:32 of that was rolling. Ended up dirty, wet and cold, and ready to do it all over again.
https://ridewithgps.com/trips/67306968
Challenging ride but enjoyed it a lot. Awesome to have Alex riding with me.