Pending a consensus and some logistical decisions, the route for this years Almanzo may change significantly. Having lost last years finish line to some unexpected happenings, I am considering changing the race course to a 100 mile loop starting and ending in Rochester. I realize suggesting a change like this may affect some of the riders, but for the most part I believe it should make the riders to-and-from planning for this event a bit easier.

I know last year there was a lot of carpool arrangements that had to made so people could get to Rochester and then to Mankato and then back to Rochester and finally home. Changing this course to a loop would eliminate a giant portion of last years logistical headaches. By eliminating the different finish line, each rider has only to be responsible for getting to and from one location, the start/finish line.

If there is a change to a looped course some things will stay the same, but there will be some new challenges. There will still be 100 miles to ride with the same significant potential for a fresh covering of crushed rock. There will still be only one point where riders can meet their support crew. On this proposed course there would be towns with conveniences at 25, 40, and 70 mile marks. There would be a significant reduction in the potential for headwinds as the course would change directions a bit more frequently. There will be a increase in the number of hills one has to climb and while these hills may not be mountains, there will be more of them.

If anyone has questions or concerns with this proposal, please let me know as soon as possible.