Ft. Yargo Recon

March 18, 2006
Ft Yargo State Park, Winder GA.

Ft. Yargo SP is the site of the Dirty Spoke 12hr. Solo race in May. Word around the campfire is that Tinker Jaurez will be in attenance for the event. Feeling I needed all the help I could get, I used this trip as a reconnaissance mission. Besides I was in town for the GA Single Speed Chamionships.

The trail is around 11mi. with about 1000' climbing per lap. Great course, well marked as I didn't take map or anything other than a spare tube kit, food, water & camera. The trail is well maintained and used by many bikers & hikers. The trail system is based on a loop around a small lake. These types of trails are very fun because of the views and it's impossible to get lost. The course has a few short steep bumps, two steady climbs of about 5min. long, lots of turns. The trail will be fast during race situations with several big ring sections. This will be a welcomed feature during a 12hr race.

The plan was two laps, 1st at sight seeing pace then the 2nd at race pace. This would be a ballpark figure on lap times. Anyway 1st. lap my left crankarm came off 5 times, due to my oversight in reassemling the cranks to the bottom bracket earlier in the week. Remember no tools w/ the exception of a micro leatherman tool equipped w/ scissors. Yeah in a pinch, small scissors can sub for a 8mm allen wrench. Once back to the truck, fixed the mechanical and back out for the 2nd lap. This one went much better. Good lap time, and no problems.

For those who don't know, I'm known as the deer whisper. Pausing for a pose with the locals.