Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 14: Mark Kransz - Tales from the UP

Overview:

Episode 14 features Mark Kransz, a prolific endurance cyclist from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Trevor and Sheldon walk through his adventurous and impressive 2019 season, including key performances at Polar Roll, Crusher, Wausau 24, Margie Gessick Out-and-Back, and more. Kransz shares stories of grit, solitude, camaraderie, and why he’s drawn to ultra-distance events.

Mark Kransz demonstrates the true spirit of endurance cycling. From clearing trails before Polar Roll to winning Crusher and tackling 206 grueling miles at Margie, his approach is equal parts physicality, mentality, and heart. His emphasis on riding for the adventure, not just the results, underscores his unique place in the Michigan cycling scene. As he sets his sights on a full NUE series, Dirty Kanza, and Trans-Sylvania Epic, 2020 promises to be even more epic.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:50] Introduction to Mark and the Michigan Mid-Pack banter
[00:05:40] Global Fat Bike Day recap and Sheldon's ice bath mishap
[00:10:00] Dustin Derrick's call-in urging fat bike ownership
[00:13:40] Call for listener stories and end-of-year reflections
[00:15:30] Mark’s 2019 season overview: bikes, sponsors, and setup
[00:22:00] Polar Roll, Barry-Roubaix, and early season races
[00:26:00] Crusher victory and strategy breakdown
[00:30:00] Wausau 24 post-Crusher, Ore to Shore
[00:32:00] Margie Gessick Out-and-Back: 206-mile sufferfest
[00:36:30] Equipment, nutrition, and midnight attacks
[00:42:00] Training with Jeremiah Bishop in Virginia
[00:45:30] Plans for 2020 season and thoughts on endurance racing
[00:47:30] Defining the Margie Gessick: consistent technical challenge
[00:49:30] Closing reflections and riding for adventure