Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 16: Nick Stanko Introduces The Watermoo Gravel Road Race

Overview:

In this episode, Trevor and Sheldon talk with endurance athlete, race promoter, and runner Nick Stanko about Michigan’s latest gravel event—the Watermoo Gravel Road Race. The conversation covers Nick’s background in running and cycling, the evolution of grassroots rides in the Ann Arbor area, and what led to the creation of Watermoo.

Nick Stanko’s passion for gravel riding and community-building is infectious. His transition from running to gravel racing naturally evolved into creating events like the Bloom 100 and now the Watermoo Gravel Race. The 88-mile course is designed to challenge riders with punchy climbs, varied terrain, and even a river crossing—balancing adventure with accessibility.

Nick emphasizes the importance of local culture, grassroots organization, and stepping up to contribute to the cycling community. Whether you're new to gravel or a seasoned endurance athlete, Watermoo offers something unique: a challenge that fills the gap between entry-level events and ultra-endurance epics.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:15] New Year goals and upcoming races
[00:12:10] Sheldon signs up for a 10K swim event
[00:18:25] Trevor’s goal to race a double century
[00:25:40] Indoor vs outdoor training methods
[00:35:00] Introduction to guest Nick Stanko
[00:40:00] Bloom 100 and grassroots ride concepts
[00:51:45] Origin story and vision for Watermoo
[01:00:00] Course details, river crossing, and terrain
[01:08:15] Elevation and difficulty level
[01:12:30] Permits, city support, and logistics
[01:20:00] Racing categories and series participation
[01:25:00] Nick’s potential out-of-state race plans
[01:28:00] Final thoughts and race promotion