The Crusher EX is not your typical gravel race, let alone bicycle ride. I mean, look at the Field Notes!: 906adventureteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CR24-FN715.pdf This thing is a combination of Northwoods beauty and rock garden nasty. It is smooth rolling pavement and endless muddy climbs. Waist deep river crossings and no cell phone coverage. To a few, it is the perfect recipe for an entertaining summer day. I emphasize "few". Only six people finished the 225EX for 2024. Actually, surviving is the priority, finishing is a bonus. As the sun came up, on July 7, 2024, Diablo Cycling's Tim Patterson and Adam Koenig set out on the rugged roads of Upper Michigan. There was rain, a flat tire, but for the most part, they both rode strong and trouble free. Eventually, at about mile 147, Tim's inability to digest any calories forced him to abandon...but only for this attempt. He will return. Fortunately Jeff was there with his van. Adam continued on, alone, using a borrowed cell phone (his failed earlier in the ride) that did not provide any back up navigation. Unable to locate the Rock Cut Checkpoint, he realized an official finish was impossible. Minimal cell phone coverage and unnavigable "roads" for a minivan, forced him to continue riding thru the night, until Jeff met up with him in the morning. I strongly encourage viewing his video below. Family obligations meant he would not return this year, but will another year to earn his Triple Crown. So, figuring they were both done for this year, Tim Patterson returns on On September 1st, completing a solo attempt. SOLO! No support! Nobody to try and call. Nobody waiting every 40 miles with snacks, water, and dry clothes. He had to filter his own water three times. He just went up there and knocked it out!  Tim Patterson: Miles: 240.05 Elevation Gain: 13,996' Total Time: 36:28 Moving Time: 26:56 225EX Finisher  Adam Koenig: Miles: 213.49 Elevation Gain: 14,583 Total Time: 30:09 Moving Time: 24:32   At the start of their first attempts.  Jeff Abitz offers support at "The Mouth of the Huron River".  Adam Koenig, shared his Crusher experience, in his "deep dive" video below: It is worth a view. There are challenges and lessons to be learned.  - Jabitz
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