Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 15: A Year in the Midpack

Overview:

Episode 15 of the Dirty Chain Podcast brings together Trevor and Sheldon with guests Brett Miller and Rich Mar for a lively, beer-fueled year-end roundtable. The group shares favorite rides, worst moments, emotional highs, and biggest cycling achievements of 2019. The discussion ranges from solo bikepacking adventures to gravel races like Barry-Roubaix, Iceman, Hellcat, Land Run, and the infamous Margie Gessick. Key themes include camaraderie, mental resilience, the transformative power of cycling, and gratitude for shared experiences.

"A Year in the Midpack" captures the heart of mid-level cycling—full of grit, joy, mishaps, and unforgettable friendships. Sheldon finds renewed purpose in Oklahoma’s Land Run. Rich learns his limits (and strengths) during spontaneous gravel adventures. Trevor rediscovers passion through cycling after a disappointing marathon. Brett, meanwhile, completes Margie Gessick and signs up again—his 18-hour odyssey ending in mud, tears, pizza, and satisfaction.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:00] Reunion of the Dirty Chain team and special guest introductions
[00:03:30] Michigan beers and winter solstice celebration
[00:06:15] Best rides of 2019, including Bloom 100 and Salsa Sub 48
[00:17:45] Rich’s “best and worst” ride at Winowana
[00:24:30] Sheldon’s fat bikepacking trip with Jackie at Fargo Sub 48
[00:32:30] Sheldon’s ride to Lowell and “don’t Sheldon yourself” mantra
[00:39:15] Rich’s reflections on group camaraderie and support
[00:43:45] Bad race moments: Peak to Peak, Swamp Shaker, Bayshore Marathon, Hellcat 100
[00:53:30] Best races: Barry-Roubaix, Land Run, Charlevoix Road Race
[01:03:00] Full breakdown of Brett’s Margie Gessick experience
[01:19:30] Monsoon storm, trail carnage, and crossing the finish line
[01:29:15] Signing off with gratitude and laughs