It is lightly raining as I write and I am ready for Spring. I have officially entered the time of year where being on the bike is top priority. Any bike will do, preferably on the road. But up North here, we really could not ask for better fat tire snow trail riding. Thanks to the clubs and individuals that help make this a reality!

The world, to me, continues to be a place of heaviness. We are coming to grips with Covid 19 and now the atrocities in Ukraine. My heart goes to those people and the Russians stuck under Putin. My heart goes to all in the world that have had to live and die through such turmoil. Most here in the USA are so fortunate and I try daily to be thankful for the basics of life (food, family and shelter.) And I count the ability to ride my bike as one of those gifts. I have been in contact with our friends in our Romanian sister city of Lupeni as they attempt to offer aid and shelter to Ukrainian refugees. If there is a way that Gravel for Good can assist, I will update you all ASAP.

In the meanwhile, I welcome you all to the very lively season of gravel events we have planned. This week, we are finalizing designs for our new cycling kit, tee shirts, and really cool merchandise. I also ask that you contact me (jeremybkershaw@gmail.com) if you know you are not able to ride. Many on the waitlist are anxiously ready to take your spot. Thanks for assisting us with this change of status.

As you know, I am having fun with our new word, “Graveleer.” It will be a prominent part of our Heck lexicon this season. On my run this morning, I thought we all need to be Graveleers these days. I think a Graveleer is brave, welcoming and adventurous. I have special gifts planned for those Graveleers that make it across the finish line this season. But in the meanwhile, Be Graveleer.

Ride the Good Line

Jeremy