Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 6: Pre Marji Gesick Fresh Meat with Brett Miller

Overview:

Episode 6 of the Dirty Chain Podcast features local cyclist Brett Miller as he prepares for the Margie Gessick, a notoriously brutal 100+ mile mountain bike race in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Trevor and Sheldon dive into Brett’s preparation, fears, past races, and experiences from recent events, including Uncle John’s Dirty Ride and a bikepacking adventure.

Brett approaches the Margie Gessick with a mix of fear, respect, and grim determination. Despite training setbacks, including a broken collarbone, and grueling prep races like Cohutta and Mohican, he remains committed to finishing. Margie’s mythical toughness, quirky traditions (like “Quitter the Unicorn”), and almost-impossible belt buckle cutoff time loom large.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:02:30] Uncle John’s Dirty Ride crash and single-speed recap
[00:08:20] Salsa Fargo Sub 48 bikepacking weekend with his girlfriend
[00:13:40] Alma GP of Cyclocross and CPS series recap
[00:20:00] Long gravel and trail rides in Ionia and DTE prep
[00:27:00] Margie Gessick overview and beer theme introduction
[00:33:30] Bike setup, tire choice, terrain expectations
[00:36:20] Entry decision and NUE series experience
[00:41:20] Mid-race phone call and Margie mental toll
[00:45:00] Margie traditions: “Quitter” unicorn, tokens, $1 prize
[00:50:10] Belt buckle rules, tracking logistics, race goals
[00:54:00] Other participants including Jameson doing the run
[00:56:30] Final reflections and Margie fears