Metamora 4X50 Double Century

by Dave Parker & John Hughes

It was so hot, it was like “riding inside a pan of popcorn kernels.”

Ultracycling Cup Competition for ultra riders of the season

This race, held on August 11, 2007, was unprecedented for several reasons, but what most impressed the staff of Ultra Midwest was this; on a day predicted to see temperatures well in excess of 90 degrees, there was not one single pre-registered rider who didn't start. Furthermore, as best as we can determine, 22 walk-ins registered either Friday night or Saturday morning.

How hot was it? I'm told that on lap four, riders said the asphalt bubbles being burst by their tires made it sound as though they were riding inside a pan of popcorn kernels. I'm sure you could all come up with your own “how hot was it” story, but for now, lets have a look at the results (attached). Just awesome speeds given the conditions.

The race is held on a 49.2-mile loop just outside of Metamora, IL. The route is generally on flat and straight country roads, with very little elevation gain in terms of single climbs. Aside from one rather noticeable climb out of a small creek bed at the beginning of the lap, there are only fairly small rolling hills and flat blacktop.

Dennis Grelk, racing in his HPV, took top honors in the double century, finishing in 9 hours 11 minutes 21.43 (mph). Lawrence Fitz, racing a conventional bike in the age 50-59 group was second overall, finishing in 9:20 (21.09). Larry Ide took third overall and won the Men's 25-49 age group with a time of 9:29. Seven riders finished the double in less than 10 hours!

Fifty-two riders competed on diamond-framed bikes, an HPV, recumbents and tandems. William Ford was first in the 150 with a time of 6:48 (21.71). Warren Beauchamp, racing on a recumbent was the first century finisher with a time of 4:25 (22.28). Mike Gudat and Teresa Angot-Lewis tied in the 50 in 2:27.

The Metamora 4X50 is the second of three events produced by UltraMidwest: Joe Jamison and Dave Parker. Their goal is to provide the best venues, the best support and the best all-around cycling experience for anyone who chooses to ride an ultra event. They welcome suggestions on how to improve their events.

Labor Day weekend they produce 24-, 12- and 6-hour races. The 24-hour is in the World Cup of UltraCycling.

More information: Ultramidwest website

Metamora 4X50 Results