Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 45: More Mid South, Dirty 30, and Lowell Rogue 100

Overview:

In Episode 45 of the Dirty Chain Podcast, Trevor and Sheldon recap their experiences at two spring Michigan gravel events: the Dirty 30 and the Lowell Rogue 100. They discuss their personal racing efforts, different approaches to gravel riding (racing vs. partying), and the growing sense of "normalcy" returning to the cycling community after a long pandemic year. The episode also features a guest appearance by Trevor's brother, Aaron Gibney, who shares his adventure riding the Mid South 50-mile course in Stillwater, Oklahoma. From podium finishes and parking lot beers to herding sheep with a Specialized Diverge, the episode highlights the spirit, challenge, and camaraderie of gravel cycling.

Episode 45 paints a vivid portrait of early 2021 gravel riding—one filled with optimism, challenges, and celebration. Trevor shares his successful podium efforts at Dirty 30 and Lowell Rogue 100, while Sheldon reminds listeners that gravel riding can be equally joyful when approached as a party rather than a race. Their conversations emphasize the resilient spirit of the gravel community, the return of familiar race-day traditions (like parking lot beers), and the welcoming nature of events even under continued COVID precautions.

Meanwhile, Aaron Gibney’s story underscores that the gravel spirit lives everywhere—from massive organized events to solo adventures. His Mid South ride brings together self-reliance, rural beauty, unexpected obstacles (like herding sheep!), and the simple joys of beer and friendship.

This episode leaves listeners inspired to chase their own rides—whether to race, party, or explore—and reminds everyone that gravel riding is not about the result but about the journey and connections made along the way.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:00] Opening and spring event overview: Dirty 30, Lowell Rogue 100, and Mid South 50
[00:03:00] Sheldon’s new job, DTE Friday rides, and a teaser of new bike builds
[00:06:00] Single speeds, ferrets on bikes, and lawn mower Garmin data
[00:09:00] Dirty 30 recap: Trevor's race performance and Sheldon's party ride with Suzy the Ferret
[00:15:00] The beauty of gravel’s wide spectrum: racing hard vs. riding for fun
[00:17:30] Parking lot beers and meeting new friends like Mark Bryson
[00:20:00] Lowell Rogue 100 recap: solo TT starts, beautiful weather, and a fifth-place finish
[00:25:00] New bike impressions: Giant Revolt and future event registrations (Barry-Roubaix)
[00:28:00] Special Guest: Aaron Gibney recounts riding the Mid South 50-mile route
[00:30:00] Mid South course conditions: wind, deep gravel, smoke-filled rides, and herding sheep
[00:34:00] Ending at Iron Monk Brewery and becoming a true gravel believer
[00:36:00] Closing remarks and reflections on gravel community and racing