I have to admit that I would much rather be riding my bike on a crystal clear Sunday afternoon in the fall than doing yard work. The forest always seems to call out in the fall, "Come ride". Just like Odysseus and his men drawn to the songs of the Sirens, I find myself incapable of ignoring the irresistible lure of the woods.

Even if I only ride for an hour, I feel better for it. Yard work can wait. It will still be there next weekend (and the next) but fall is fleeting and the woods beckon.

One of Gary Fisher’s new Superfly 29ers is also calling out my name. Talk about a sweet rig! The bike is so hot that Brick Wheels here in Traverse City has already taken orders for 2 of the latest offering from Gary Fisher.

We have a completely new venue design at Timber Ridge that promises to facilitate viewing opportunities for family and friends as well increase room for the post-race celebrations. Speaking of parties, Timber Ridge is currently making arrangements for a "Beverage Pavillion" (can you say beer tent?) for those who wish to make at toast to one of the many beer saints. More information will be posted on the website as their plans fall into place.

Meijer is planning more Healthy Living activities for young families in conjunction with the Meijer Slush-Cup and Meijer Sno-Cone events so make sure you stop by and say "Hi" to Shari Steinbach and the rest of the Meijer team on Saturday afternoon.

Additionally, we have been working with the folks at Active.com to create a lottery system for registration in 2008 and beyond. So put the rake down and get out and ride. Twenty minutes or four hours; it doesn’t matter. Just ride.

                Fear No Ice,
                

This year's Iceman jerseys are from Champion Systems and reflect a different approach to the design and materials. Champion Systems has been providing professional and amateur teams with custom cycling clothing with rave reviews from the teams.

You'll find their clothing on teams like Toyota United and even the Sports Rack team in Marquette. The long sleeve jerseys are made out of a much heavier fleece than past editions and promise to be just the ticket for those cool early winter rides. Check Champion Systems' website at www.champ-sys.com to see how they can outfit your team for next year's Iceman!