2007 Gravel Rouser Classic Event Recap

Stage 4: Coolville Ridge Cooldown

After three days of cold, gray weather, riders were greeted with rays of sunshine on Sunday, March 18, for the Coolville Ridge Cooldown. It helped counteract the pain they felt from the steep hills and cold water crossings on the gravel road course.

Riders rode at a leisurely pace to a remote area of Athens County to prepare to start the race. After gathering at the Blackwood covered bridge near Shade, Ohio, the group headed out together for one parade loop of the course so everyone could get acquainted with its twists, turns, climbs and obstacles. Almost immediately things got a little mixed up. A steep climb splintered the group, which had a tough time staying together even at parade pace. Missed turns and flat tires caused some riders to miss the start. No one seemed to mind, however, as there was still plenty of tough climbing to be had.

A barely passable road, covered with rushing water and filled with holes and rocks, sent many racers over their handlebars and into the cold creek. Some opted not to chance it and ran through the deep water.

Tristan Schouten placed first, earning a $10 bounty for beating returning Gravel Rouser champion Brian Matter. Craig Watson, fresh in from a week of massages and cocktails in Cancun, nabbed third place, follwed by Mike Boyes and Jim Schulz, both of whom were riding particularly strong.

Junior racer Kevin Deal nabbed a coon to win the Road Kill Sprint Challenge.

Scroll down for results and photos. Thanks go to Tom Chambers and A.W. Matters for the photos.

*winner of Road Kill Sprint Challenge

Click on the thumbnail images below for larger images.

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