WriteTek Northwest » Mountain Biking

Frame, Wheelset, Seatpost at Great Prices

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:41:21 +0000

The following items have been posted by Ryan McMaster. Ryan decided that a 4” travel trail bike was not enough and ended up building up an all-mountain oriented Heckler. The result is some great deals for local bikers. The quotes are from Ryan. Contact him at [Continue Reading]

GG5K on the Not-So-Distant Horizon

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:00:10 +0000

Defending Growlers Gulch 5,000 champ Mike Van Hoose once said, “At Growlers, the dumber the event, the more people show up.” Here’s your chance to prove him right. Sign-up begins now for the storied GG5K, the first event on the 2010 ride circuit [Continue Reading]

Trail Update, Spike, Parking, 4-Wheelers, LT

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:47:11 +0000

Trail Update: Paul, Mel, Ryan McMaster and I connected with Darrell, Eric, Casey and Ryan Hicks on Sunday to work on Bitter Bitch. We added a switchback and a reroute near the bottom. These will transform the BB climb from ridiculously painful to just really [Continue Reading]

60 @ Sixty on IHateBikes.net

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:43:26 +0000

Big thanks to Jason Van Horn at IHateBikes.net for posting an interview about the 60 @ Sixty ride on his website. Jason was with us on this fall’s ride on the west side of St. Helens. He was also at Growlers for this year’s trail building [Continue Reading]

Brian Mahon Featured in DN Story

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:43:06 +0000

“Friend’s death spurs cancer crusade.” Story by Cheryll Borgaard – The Daily News, February 15, 2010. Mention the “C” word to Brian Mahon, and he’s off and running — and talking and talking. Any chance he gets, Mahon [Continue Reading]

Coldwater Trail Work Moved to June 5th

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:44:13 +0000

The trail maintenance day at South Coldwater 230A has been changed from June 26th to June 5th. Dave, Lipton, Paul, Mel, and Ryan McMaster had signed up for the original date. Be sure you guys take a look at the 5th and see if you can still make it. Last year, [Continue Reading]

24HOP Photos and Vid

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:50:21 +0000

Photos from the 2010 24 Hours at the Old Pueblo are finally in! The Mountain Beavers of Growlers Gulch Racing distinguished themselves by finishing 15th in a division that included 34 teams. Team members included Ryan McMaster – who had the fastest lap [Continue Reading]

Brigman Starts Race Season with Two Wins

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:43:03 +0000

It’s a familiar refrain, but Lance Brigman never gets tired of hearing it. Cherry Pie: After picking up titles at seven OBRA events in 2009, Brigman – of Growlers Gulch Racing and Bike Tires Direct – kicked off the new year with a bang, taking [Continue Reading]

Local Trail Update

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:50:32 +0000

Golden Spike Joel Rogauskus led a crew that included Paul and Mel Norris, Brad Burger, Ken Pearson, Jerry DeRuyter, and the mysterious Derrick. They completed 1-2 more miles of the 4.5 mile reroute, leaving approximately one mile to go. Paul said the new line is [Continue Reading]

Mel Norris Suffers Injury, Fans Concerned

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:55:11 +0000

I have received several reports about the knee injury Melanie Norris suffered on Sunday. She apparently went over the bars and landed on rocks. The result was five stitches in the emergency room at Legacy Salmon Creek, followed by a Vicodin and a medicinal [Continue Reading]

60 @ Sixty Contributors

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:44:02 +0000

Learn how you can get involved. DONORS TO: Friends of the Castle Rock Library Cage Aaron Becky Belangy Andy Crump Vicki Dobbins Larry Downing Bill Green Rand and Sandy LeBaron (In memory of Floyd LeBaron) Dave and Diane LeMonds Jeff Lipton Mayn and Joey [Continue Reading]

Another Day Older and Deeper in Debt

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:11:12 +0000

Yes, my brother, Dave, turns 56 today. For a guy who’s almost as old as Lipton, the old geezer still gets around pretty good. Leave your birthday wishes at the bottom of this post. It probably won’t surprise you to learn that Dave was a problem child in [Continue Reading]

Golden Spike Work Party This Saturday

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:37:27 +0000

Joel Rogauskus is asking for help with the final 1.5-miles of the reroute of the Golden Spike trail, a unique 12-mile single-track link between the Stella and Growlers Gulch systems. The work party will take place Saturday, February 20th. Joel asks that you bring [Continue Reading]

Mountain Beavers Rock Old Pueblo

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:48:46 +0000

The Mountain Beavers of Growlers Gulch Racing showed strong at the 24 Hours of Old Pueblo race on February 13 in Tucson, Arizona. The group completed 255 miles over 15 laps to finish 15th in Five-Person Coed with a Combined Age of 150-199 (They would have [Continue Reading]

Carnage and Canoe Log Vid

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:14:43 +0000

These two clips courtesy of Kelley Hinkle show footage of the middle part of Carnage. In the first vid, John rolls the canoe log with his 29. Things don’t work quite so well in the second clip when Miles tries to do the same thing on his 26. [Continue Reading]

Meet the Ride Team

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:46:15 +0000

It’s a motley crew but when you’re this old, the pickings are slim. Jim LeMonds is celebrating his 60th birthday with the 60 @ Sixty ride. He taught English in the Longview School District for 30 years and has been mountain biking since 1996. LeMonds [Continue Reading]

60 @ Sixty Details Here

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:39:22 +0000

The Mission Meet the Ride Team Interview with Jim LeMonds View List of Contributors I realize that all of you receive requests for donations and that there are many worthy causes, so if you choose not to contribute, I won’t be offended. I have provided [Continue Reading]

No Worries! You Don’t Have to Pedal!

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 05:02:54 +0000

When I invited you to be a part of the 60 at Sixty ride this summer to celebrate my 60th birthday, I definitely didn’t intend to make you think you would need to come along! The ride will take place in July, with the goal of completing 60 miles of [Continue Reading]

Loneys Test Super D Course

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:53:10 +0000

Eric and Sam Loney have confirmed that the length of the Super D course is 3.36 miles. The race is still six months away, so it’s obvious that they weren’t practicing. They were simply checking distance for the rest of us. Eric said the route is [Continue Reading]

LeMonds Begins Quest for 60 @ 60

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:56:15 +0000

Sher likes to say, “The more you celebrate life, the more life you have to celebrate.” In that spirit, I’ve set a goal to ride a total of 60 miles on four trails in the Cascades in one day to celebrate my 60th birthday this summer. The logistics [Continue Reading]

Cozysweet Has an Accomplice – Episode #8

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:50:48 +0000

I-5 was reduced to a skating rink, the landscape lit by flares and the flashing lights of emergency vehicles and tow trucks. We were crawling by the time we reached the 6th Avenue exit in Vancouver. I decided we needed sustenance. On a whim, I veered over to By the [Continue Reading]

Trail Reviews – Gnat Creek and Knappa

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:02:58 +0000

Jason Van Horn at I Hate Bikes has posted detailed reviews of the trails at Knappa and Gnat Creek, just east of Astoria. With the ongong renovation of the Taylorville/Wauna trails that Vaughn Martin, Ed Strong and Bob Horness developed back in the day, the Oregon [Continue Reading]

Highlander Cycling Opens in Longview

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:08:15 +0000

Highlander Cycling opened at 1313 Commerce Avenue in Longview in December. Owners Janice and Scott Forbes have made it clear that Highlander will take an active role in the local biking scene. “We’re very interested in sponsoring events and supporting [Continue Reading]

GG Trail Guidelines

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:56:14 +0000

Members of Growlers Gulch’s Adopt-a-Trail program met at the Backstage Cafe in Kelso on January 20th to establish informal guidelines for trail maintenance and construction. There was general agreement about the following: No one is obligated to add [Continue Reading]

GGG Vid Clip

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:33:35 +0000

After starting the new year with a big ride early in January, the Growlers Gulch Girls will have things rocking again this Saturday. Ride time at Growlers is 11 a.m. GGG queenpins Melanie Norris and Dara Hartman promise that the pace will be mellow and have tagged [Continue Reading]

New Trail Line

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:49:10 +0000

You can count on Dave to make sure that you get the most out of your health care dollars. By jettisoning some of his trivial “work-related” projects, he has once again found time to conduct extensive research of area topo maps. The result is a [Continue Reading]

GGR Heads for Old Pueblo

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:59:16 +0000

Growlers Gulch Racing will be well-represented at this year’s 24-Hours in the Old Pueblo endurance race in Tucson, Arizona. The event takes place on February 13th. Melanie Norris, Paul Norris, Dara Muldoon, Jeff Muldoon, and Ryan McMaster of GGR will join [Continue Reading]

Work Date Set for South Coldwater Trail

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:01:34 +0000

We have received phenomenal support from area riders for trail building and trail maintenance at Growlers Gulch. We ask that you expand your horizons a bit and consider signing on to lend a hand with the South Coldwater 230A Trail on Saturday, June 26th. You can [Continue Reading]

GGG Kicks Off 2010 in Style

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 02:53:15 +0000

The Growlers Gulch Girls got the new year started with a group ride at Growlers on Saturday, January 9th. Fourteen women showed for the event. GGG queenpin Melanie “The Hammer” Norris and her assistant Dara “Hardball” Hartman took the crew [Continue Reading]

Mountain Bike Quantum Physics

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:38:23 +0000

Neat vid of a Tuscon rider who charted routes from his home. At first, I thought the vid was tracking Denise Livingston as she tried to escape A, B, C. Courtesy of Paul Norris. Mountain Bike Quantum Physics from Scott Morris on Vimeo. [Continue Reading]

Board of Director Sets 2010 Ride Dates

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:34:09 +0000

Get your calendar! The Board of Director of Growlers Gulch Racing has announced the key dates for the 2010 events. Six people earned all five wheels in 2009. We are hoping to get that number to double-digits this year. Please note that those who have worked on [Continue Reading]

Rob Resurrects New Year’s Bike and Brew

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:04:47 +0000

Yes, it’s back! If you’re looking for a way to get 2010 off to a good start, here’s your chance. GGR board member Rob Larsen has announced plans to resurrect the New Year’s Day Bike & Brew at Growlers. Start time is 10 a.m. Normally, [Continue Reading]

Adopt-a-Trail Program Kicks off at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:36:31 +0000

In an effort to ensure that the entire trail system at Growlers stays in great shape year-round, members of Growlers Gulch Racing will institute an adopt-a-trail program in 2010. With the trail network expanding at a rate of approximately three miles per year, it [Continue Reading]

BOLO for Stolen Bike

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:04:13 +0000

Dave Freece, Director of the Cowlitz Historical Museum in Kelso, had his bike stolen on Friday, December 18th. He has asked for our help in recovering the bike and catching the rat bastards who took it. He may have seen it in West Kelso on Sunday but was unable to [Continue Reading]

The Mission Becomes Clear – Episode #7

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 23:17:50 +0000

I dug through Lipton’s fridge, found two 22-ounce Hop Stoopids from Lagunitas. Decided this was an appropriate beer for the occasion. I made Lipton give me his keys, led him out to the garage and shoved him into the passenger seat. I got behind the wheel, [Continue Reading]

Bikers Step Up to Lend a Hand

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:40:41 +0000

When Growlers Gulch Racing diva Denise Livingston asked local bikers to provide assistance to kids in need of helmets, the response was rapid. Livingston, who is the intervention specialist at Cascade Middle School in Longview, has been worried about four of her [Continue Reading]

Growlers Trail News

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 23:09:35 +0000

Upper Bitch - This is the lengthy section with all the switchbacks that comes out of the Secret Garden. It is already in cherry condition. The climb is demanding but doable, although the section near the bottom will be a bear when it’s wet. If you need to [Continue Reading]

Revenge of the Chick in the White Shirt – Episode #6

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:04:30 +0000

Okay, so we’d made a minor mistake. Patterson had been innocent of the crime. Yet who among us can truly claim to be innocent? Patterson was dead. Lipton and I could feel bad about it, or we could learn from this error in judgment and move on. The [Continue Reading]

Holiday Assistance Needed

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:24:27 +0000

Denise Livingston, who works at Cascade Middle School in Longview, is requesting assistance for four of her students. Three of her girls have to rely on their bikes to get around. They do not have helmets and need them. One of her boys rides his bikes from the [Continue Reading]

Ghosts Past and Present – Episode #5

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:04:10 +0000

I’d wielded the chainsaw like a gentle scalpel. When Lipton asked for a turn, I figured he’d do the same. Wrong. He threw the chain on a clavicle, and it took us several minutes to get it back on (The chain, not the clavicle). Then he really got [Continue Reading]

The Interrogation of Mike Patterson – Episode #4

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 13:50:13 +0000

I called Patterson at 11:43 p.m. at his yuppie abode on Taylor Avenue, just two blocks from Lipton’s house. When Patterson picked up, I could hear someone from the Shopping Channel hollering about closeout prices on cleaning supplies. “Come over to [Continue Reading]

Freak Injured in Veatch Accident

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:53:04 +0000

Okay, I suppose the headline should have been “Veatch Injured in Freak Accident,” but who’s counting? All of this drama with the missing cups has made me even more random than usual. Anyway – the story. Former NWTA (nee PUMP) kingpin Dennis [Continue Reading]

A Clue at Last! – Episode #3

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:44:52 +0000

When I stopped by to chat with Lipton at his posh bachelor pad in Longview’s hip Terry-Taylor neighborhood, he was in the livingroom drinking a Pocono Blonde. A rare vinyl copy of Barry Manilow’s Showstoppers album was spinning on the [Continue Reading]

Golden Spike Report

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 14:46:04 +0000

Progress continues on the Golden Spike re-route. Joel is looking at Saturday or Sunday for the next work party. Looks like the gates will not be open, so workers should plan on a six-mile ride in. Joel will have details by mid-week. Friday: Joel and Brad Burger [Continue Reading]

Dara Hartman Announces Studio Sales

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 03:14:26 +0000

Pacific Northwest artist and GGG biking stud Dara Hartman will hold two studio sales to close the year. The first will be at her home on December 5th and 6th. The other will be at Acanthus in Portland on December 12th and 13th. It’s always a stretch to raise [Continue Reading]

Terrorists Publish List of Demands – Episode #2

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 14:38:22 +0000

I was dreaming again. No Palin. No O’Reilly. No Hannity. This time, the only mounting that was about to be done was me climbing onto the pimped-out Turner Sultan waiting in my garage. Then the doorbell rang, and I realized immediately that there was no [Continue Reading]

Terrorists Strike Growlers Gulch Racing! – Episode #1

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:45:21 +0000

I was having a dream – Sean Hannity and Bill O’Reilly were taking turns goin’ rogue on Sarah Palin. Sarah was telling them to stick with it; she could just about see Russia. And then the phone rang and the real nightmare began. A surly voice on [Continue Reading]

Spike Reroute Cranks Up on Sunday

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:29:55 +0000

Joel Rogauskus is recruiting trail dogs to assist with a 4.3-mile reroute of the Golden Spike Trail that connects Stella with Growlers Gulch. There are two options: Meet Joel at the top of Coal Creek Road and Woodside Drive at 9:30 on Sunday. He can provide [Continue Reading]

Growlers Work Party Draws Huge Crowd

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:39:46 +0000

Despite the wind and rain, 66 people showed to build new trail at Growlers Gulch on November 21st, nearly doubling the total of volunteers at the 2008 event. See photos at the bottom of this post. We have not charted the mileage yet, but we believe we added 2+ [Continue Reading]

Powell Butte Needs Help

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:08:22 +0000

Dennis Veatch has asked me to post this information regarding the Powell Butte system in Portland. Responses – which can be delivered at the bottom of this post - must be submitted by Friday, November 27th. “The Powell Butte’s Trail plan is under [Continue Reading]

Golden Spike Re-route Underway

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:47:39 +0000

Joel Rogauskus has announced that the re-route of the Golden Spike, which connects the Stella and Growlers Gulch trail systems, has been fully scouted and flagged, and is ready for trail work. The re-route distance is 4.3 miles, heading west from the previous [Continue Reading]

Growlers Gulch Racing Welcomes LT

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:10:58 +0000

Our newest rider and trailbuilder – Leon Thomas “LT” Mueller – was born at 4:22 p.m. on November 13. He is 7.7 pounds and 19 inches. LT said that he feels healthy and that his parents, Thomas and Ksenia Mueller, are doing well. LT shrugged [Continue Reading]

Work Groups, Locations for Saturday

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:39:40 +0000

All systems are go for Saturday. We have a great crew and are looking forward to completing four sections of new line. Looks like rain. Dress accordingly. If you check below and know precisely where your group will be working, you can simply drive or ride to that [Continue Reading]

Six New Trail Lines Under Construction at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:06:54 +0000

The trail gnomes have been busy. In anticipation of a big turnout for our mega-work party on Saturday, November 21, we have been flagging as much new stuff as possible. Four of the lines are in the Secret Garden area; one is the down off of Creation and headed [Continue Reading]

Ed Strong Recovering at Home

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:35:45 +0000

After undergoing surgery at OHSU on Tuesday to remove five small tumors in his brain, local mountain biking legend Ed Strong is now recovering at home. “I stopped to see him, and he is doing as well as might be expected,” said Vaughn Martin, Ed’s [Continue Reading]

Board of Directors Sets Date for Mega-Work Party at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:46:21 +0000

This is it. Mark Saturday, November 21st on your calendar in permanent ink. Cancel anything that was previously on there. Our core group will do some additional trail work in the coming months, but we have set November 21st as our annual mega-trail work day. We ask [Continue Reading]

Ed Strong Undergoes Surgery

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:46:20 +0000

Local biking legend Ed Strong underwent brain surgery at OHSU on Tuesday, November 3rd. A large tumor that was partially removed in 2002 has returned and additional surgery was necessary. Ed’s good friend and biking buddy, Vaughn Martin, said that it is [Continue Reading]

GGG Going Strong

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:33:43 +0000

The Growlers Gulch Girls celebrated their one-year anniversary with a group ride at Growlers on October 31st. Numbers were down a bit because of nasty weather, but Melanie Norris, Dara Hartman, Denise Livingston, Sam Loney, and Tonya Breedlove didn’t let [Continue Reading]

Video – West Side of St. Helens

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:28:37 +0000

A big crew from Growlers Gulch Racing hooked up with Al Hansen and the boys from Knappa for a ride on the west side of Mount St. Helens in late October. We got lucky with the weather and had a great time. We started from Red Rock Pass, rode across to Blue Lake, [Continue Reading]

Blame Loney!

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:44:17 +0000

Growlers Gulch Trail Report Secret Garden - Paul & Mel – The Norrises have ribboned a line across the street from Cooley’s Loop. It should be pretty mellow. We will be working on this on Saturday. Secret Garden – New Down – I have [Continue Reading]

‘09 Climbing Championship – Video

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:21:09 +0000

Some of the clips are dark but you’ll get the idea. The climbs don’t appear to be all that steep in the vids. Trust me – they were very challenging. On top of that, the rain made the tread seem like it had been saturated with olive oil. Eight [Continue Reading]

Growlers Gulch Racing Announces 2010 Ride Circuit

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:04:03 +0000

The Board of Directors of Growlers Gulch Racing has released a tentative schedule for the 2010 season. Please note that dates will be solidified within the next few months. Once again, five wheels will be on the line, with coveted Fist of Five, Four-Wheel and [Continue Reading]

Al Hansen Named Growlers Gulch Rider of the Year

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:13:49 +0000

Rider of the Year The Board of Directors of Growlers Gulch Racing has named Al Hansen the GG Rider of the Year for 2009. Hansen placed 4th at the Climbing Championships, 2nd at the 5K, and took top honors at the TT with a dominating performance. Hansen, who won [Continue Reading]

Mueller Edges LeMonds to Win Climbing Title

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:34:41 +0000

Thomas Mueller of Growlers Gulch Racing fought off challenges from a group of talented riders to claim the Growlers Gulch Climbing Championship on Saturday, October 17th. It was the fifth and final event on the 2009 GG ride circuit. In rainy conditions that [Continue Reading]

Moon, Hansen, Jamieson Wear ‘09 Fluidride Crowns

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:58:22 +0000

Jason Moon, Al Hansen, and Chase Jamieson are Pacific Northwest downhill champions. Check the season standings at the bottom of this page to see how all the locals fared. Moon and Hansen put the exclamation points on the 2009 Fluidride Cup Series by [Continue Reading]

West Side of Mount St. Helens

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:19:29 +0000

Brian Mahon and I rode a great loop on the west side of St. Helens in late September. We started at Red Rock Pass and headed over to Blue Lake. From there, we rode up the Huckleberry Saddle and onto the Sheep Canyon Trail, which puts you on the Loowit. From there, [Continue Reading]

Carlson Cleans House

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 03:38:30 +0000

Erik Carlson is cleaning his garage. Incredible bargains available. Contact at deepsno@earthlink.net. Yakima 1A Towers No locks. One tower is missing a screw to hold the lock housing in but should work fine if you can find a replacement screw. These should fit most [Continue Reading]

Climbing Championships on for Saturday

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 17:16:43 +0000

The Title Could Be Yours: If you’ve seen the list of participants, you know the field is ridiculously weak. All you have to do is cover 1,550 linear feet on five climbs without putting a foot down. How hard can it be? The climbs are in great shape – [Continue Reading]

Climbs Set, Mueller Responsible for Conflict

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:12:55 +0000

Controversy Plagues CC Run-up I naively imagined this was going to be a casual, non-competitive event – just like all the others at Growlers – until I got the disturbing photo at the bottom of the page from GG5K champion Mike Van Hoose. Why [Continue Reading]

Magnificent Seven on Track for Five Wheels

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:06:45 +0000

The list is narrowing. After the time trial on September 20th, only seven riders remain eligible to earn all five wheels on the 2009 Growlers Gulch ride circuit. Fist of Five schwag will be awarded to the survivors after the Climbing Championships on Saturday, [Continue Reading]

Climbing Championships on for Oct. 17th

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:21:16 +0000

The first-ever Growlers Gulch Climbing Championships will be held Saturday, October 17th. It’s not too late to sign up. If you check the list below, you’ll quickly see that it’s the usual group of pretenders. The title is yours for the taking. [Continue Reading]

Growlers Gulch TT Video

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:47:04 +0000

Photos and more than a dozen vid clips of the 2009 Growlers Gulch Time Trial included. Complete story at Al Hansen Claims TT Crown. If you have trouble loading the vid below, check the link to You Tube and try watching it from their site. [Continue Reading]

Al Hansen Claims TT Crown

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:56:44 +0000

Al Hansen of Project 529 and Growlers Gulch Racing cruised to an easy victory at the 2009 Growlers Gulch Time Trial on September 20th. Hansen, who was the runner-up at the 2008 GGTT, smoked the course in 6:29 to take the title. Cage Aaron (Northwest Trail Alliance) [Continue Reading]

Tubes and Tires on G-Bay

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:06:43 +0000

One pair Kenda Klaw XT 29 x 1.95 tires, ridden 8.2 miles at Stella, in basically brand new condition. Asking $30 for the set (F&R specific tread) Four 29 x 2.1-2.35 Presta valve ubes, three still in the box and one missing the box but never used. They are CST [Continue Reading]

They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:41:48 +0000

Practice: The cheaters will be out in force on Saturday, studying the lines and trying to shave time. You’re welcome to come out and give it a go. BTW – Thomas was out on Wednesday. He ran a 7:15 – and that included a stop to put his chain back [Continue Reading]

Frame, Wheels, Fork Now on G-Bay

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:09:43 +0000

Casey Cox is selling a Santa Cruz Chameleon frame, a Marzocchi fork, and a set of Bontrager wheels. He can be contacted at 360.751.0043. [Continue Reading]

TT Countdown Is On

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:09:37 +0000

This year’s Growlers Gulch Time Trial promises to be a stellar event. We will have spectators, air horns, cowbells, and some damn good riders. You can still sign up. Just let me know if you are coming. Please note that the Post-Ride Pub at 465 will be open [Continue Reading]

Crump Tabs Jansky to Win Climbing Title

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:29:58 +0000

Andy Crump wants you to know – he thinks his buddy Andy Jansky is a shoo-in to win the Growlers Gulch Climbing Championship on Saturday. “I don’t care whether he’s practiced the hills or not,” said Crump, who claims to be a descendent [Continue Reading]

Growlers Gulch TT Set for Sunday

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 15:01:45 +0000

The Growlers Gulch Time Trial is a go for Sunday at 10 a.m. The course has been cleared and is in great condition. This is the fourth wheel in the coveted Fist of Five on the 2009 Growlers Gulch ride circuit. There is still time to sign up. Just let me know if you [Continue Reading]

Lewis River Trail Claims Rudy Norris

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:43:49 +0000

It’s always tough to lose a ride partner. Paul and Mel’s dog, Rudy “Ride Big or Go Home” Norris of Growlers Gulch Racing, died in a biking accident on the Lewis River Trail on Sunday, September 6th. Rudy failed to navigate an off-camber [Continue Reading]

Loney Out, GG Schedule Changed

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 15:47:03 +0000

Have you ever found yourself gasping for breath after walking up a flight of stairs? That’s where I am right now – fully porked out after more than a month of vacation combined with no riding. Let’s hope things are about to change. Growlers [Continue Reading]

South Coldwater 230A Open to the Adventurous

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:28:21 +0000

I rarely allow bikers to use their own words on my website. I’m guessing that I don’t have to explain the reason. Only Paul and Mahon get special exemptions. Neither is all that intelligent but they have a way with words that is entertaining. Below is [Continue Reading]

Video – Fluidride Cup #5

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:29:57 +0000

Video from Port Angeles, August 24th. Shows Luciana Worl’s practice run. Credit to bonesovermetal.com. Also, a real nice vid from Fluidride #5 with musical accompaniement. Also taken from bonesovermetal.com. Credit to Andy Tran. There are a couple of good [Continue Reading]

Moon Wears Crown at Fluidride Five

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:30:07 +0000

Jason Moon of Boone Dog Bikes and Growlers Gulch Racing picked up his third DH win of the season in Cat 1 40-49 at the fifth leg of the 2009 Fluidride Cup Series at Port Angeles on August 22nd-23rd. Moon ran a 3:10 and continues to hold a slim lead in the [Continue Reading]

Growlers Updates

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:04:22 +0000

Weather: Talked with Weyerhaeuser folks today. They don’t plan to re-open the woods until there is more rainfall. I’m not seeing any precip in this week’s forecast. TT and Climbing Championships: We currently have 21 people signed up for the [Continue Reading]

Sign Up Now for GGTT and GG Climbing Championships

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:24:12 +0000

Two big events remain on the ticket for Growlers Gulch Racing’s 2009 ride circuit. Sign up begins today. Obviously, all of this is contingent on the woods re-opening prior to these events. Neither is a test of endurance. They are ride-hard-and-hurl [Continue Reading]

Berry Breaks Bike – Again

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:22:49 +0000

Okay, so maybe it doesn’t qualify as news. Gunfighters of the Old West used to put a notch on the handle of their pistols. Some members of the Growlers Gulch Girls have been rumored to carve similar markings on their lipstick tubes. Which leaves us to wonder, [Continue Reading]

Darrell Jamieson Wins Snowmass DH

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:57:10 +0000

Darrell Jamieson likes Colorado. After taking the national DH crown in July at Sol Vista, Jamieson followed that by winning the Cat 1 Masters Division at the Colorado State Downhill Championships at Snowmass on August 9th. Chase Jamieson was sixth in Cat 3 [Continue Reading]

Loney Wins Again!

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:14:56 +0000

Eric Loney of Project 529 and Growlers Gulch Racing picked up his second consecutive win on the pro DH circuit at Willamette Pass on August 9th. In the best-of-two-runs format, Loney clocked a 4:30.15 in the first round, just .18 ahead of Jared Hobbs. “I [Continue Reading]

We’re Back!

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 02:45:32 +0000

At last! I received a message this a.m. from Ken Pearson. Weyerhaeuser has opened the woods at Stella and Growlers. Even though we are fat and pathetic, we will be back on trail this weekend. Saturday at Growlers: 9:00 a.m. I know everyone wants to spend as much [Continue Reading]

Check Fluidride Cup Standings

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 00:50:03 +0000

The 2009 Fluidride Cup, which will determine the Pacific Northwest’s best downhill racers, moves to Port Angeles for Stage 5 on August 21-23. Stage 6 – Fluidride’s ‘09 finale – will be at Mount Hood on September 26-28. Local riders [Continue Reading]

Brigman Breaks Course Record at Peoria

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 17:11:45 +0000

Lance Brigman of Growlers Gulch Racing and Three Rivers Cycling rolled to an easy win at the Oregon State Time Trial Championships at Peoria, Oregon, on August 2nd. Brigman covered the 40K course in 57:09, averaging 26 miles per hour, to grab first place in the [Continue Reading]

Jamiesons Win National Titles!

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 02:37:59 +0000

The father-son combination of Darrell and Chase Jamieson struck big as both won titles at the USA Cycling Mountain Bike Nationals at Granby Ranch Bike Park in Sol Vista, Colorado. Nearly 2,000 racers showed up to compete for national championships on July 18th [Continue Reading]

Growlers Gulch Racing Hits MBO

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:24:48 +0000

For the second consecutive year, Growlers Gulch Racing had the most riders – and bash guards – at the July 16th-19th session of Mountain Bike Oregon in Oakridge. Seventeen GGR riders or affiliates made the trip. Disclaimer – I received plenty of [Continue Reading]

Loney Rails to First Pro Win

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:17:43 +0000

All that practice he got staying in front of the hard-charging Growlers Gulch Racing crew at Mountain Bike Oregon paid off for Eric Loney. Loney picked up his first win as a professional downhiller as he rocketed to victory in 4:34 at part one of the Willamette [Continue Reading]

G-Bay Heats Up, LeMonds Responds to Skeptics

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:27:02 +0000

G-Bay starting to garner attention. Erik Carlson sold his Thor Impact Rig to Randy Toney. Marcus Faber was looking for a full-suspension XC bike. Lance had one for sale. Marcus now owns Lance’s Gary Fisher Cake. Kelly Hinkle bought my Marzocchi [Continue Reading]

Growlers, Stella Systems Closed

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:15:59 +0000

We are locked out. On Tuesday, both Weyerhaeuser and Longview Timberlands (Longview Fibre) announced that their land in Washington and Oregon is closed due to extreme fire danger. This means that everything we ride at low elevation is off-limits. Even if you [Continue Reading]

Ape Canyon Trail Work Complete

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:39:38 +0000

Premier, high-elevation trail in disrepair? No money for USFS crews? Nobody else willing to step up? Who you gonna call? Growlers Gulch Racing, of course. On July 26, the Mountain Bike Mutts – a trail-building arm of Growlers Gulch Racing – and several [Continue Reading]

Brigman Racks Up Another Win

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 02:37:47 +0000

Lance Brigman of Growlers Gulch Racing and Three Rivers Cycling picked up his eighth win of the year on July 26th at the Oregon Uphill Championships (OUCH) at Corbett, Oregon. Brigman completed the 16.53-mile race in 1:11:01 to take the Men’s Masters 60+ [Continue Reading]

U.S. Forest Service Issues Warrant for Thomas Mueller

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 05:24:51 +0000

Thomas Mueller of Growlers Gulch Racing – seen here (right) with an unidentified outlaw rider – has done what the rest of us can only dream of doing. He has been blacklisted by the U.S. Forest Service. As a member of a GGR work party that cleaned nearly four [Continue Reading]

Nick Hansen, Chase Jamieson Take Stage 4 Crowns

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:37:50 +0000

Local riders continued their strong showing at this year’s Fluidride Cup Series, with Nick Hansen and Chase Jamieson winning their classifications at Stage #4 at Mount Hood Ski Bowl on July 10th and 11th. Hansen won the Cat II 30-39 race in 5:31. Casey Cox [Continue Reading]

Ride ‘em All Falls Before Stellar Growlers Gulch Crew

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 03:43:29 +0000

Twenty-two started and 22 finished. On a day when the weather cooperated by staying mild and limb droop was minimal, a record number of riders completed the Growlers Gulch Ride ‘em All, the third and most demanding wheel in the coveted Fist of Five on the [Continue Reading]

Moon, Hansen, Jamieson First at Hood

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:17:23 +0000

Local riders dominated at Round Three of the Fluidride Cup Series at Mount Hood on June 26th through 28th. The course dropped riders 1,600 vertical feet in approximately five minutes. Al Hansen followed his win at Spring Thaw in Ashland with another gold in Expert [Continue Reading]

St. Helens Trail Report

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 15:30:25 +0000

Brian Mahon, Eric Loney, Al Hansen, Jeff Muldoon, Dara Muldoon, Paul Norris, and I headed out to do some recon on the south and west sides of St. Helens on July 3. I’ve been trying to deny it, but the upper half of the Ape Canyon Trail needs to be brushed [Continue Reading]

Massive Sale, Giveaway from Jack

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:53:03 +0000

Ha, to the naysayers! This proves there are parts that Jack hasn’t broken! For Sale: 4-Handlebars, 2 x-country, 2 road. More details if needed. All $10 except the brand new never-used Carbon FSA K-Force, riser bar. Contact for info if you are interested in [Continue Reading]

TDG XII Draws Record Crowd

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:00:15 +0000

Nearly 60 riders joined the party at the 12th Annual Tour de Gulch on June 20th. Billed as The Best Ride West of Castle Rock on the Third Saturday in June, TDG XII was another opportunity to celebrate good trail and great friends. Thanks again to our sponsors [Continue Reading]

Foes Features Lloyd, Geo

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:55:53 +0000

Foes Racing recently published a story about local racers Lloyd and Geo Smith and their exploits at this year’s Sea Otter Classic. The article includes nine photos. Lloyd and Geo are sponsored by Foes. Check it out at Otter Pop Likes the Heat – [Continue Reading]

South Coldwater Trail Report

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 08:58:11 +0000

Eight members of the Growlers Gulch Trail Crew hit the lower portion of South Coldwater Trail 230A on Saturday, June 27th. The group included Brian Mahon, Thomas Mueller, Mike Alexander, Jeff Lipton, Jeff Muldoon, Ryan McMaster, J. LeMonds and D. LeMonds. Brian had [Continue Reading]

Only the Stupid Need Apply

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 13:32:57 +0000

Sometimes, they don’t listen to the Voice of Reason. Despite my best efforts to get this fiasco changed or canceled, the Tour de Gulch Board of Directors has informed me that the Ride ‘em All will take place on Saturday, July 11th. Tentative start time [Continue Reading]

South Coldwater Work Party This Saturday

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:42:51 +0000

While you still have that post-Tour de Gulch glow, now is the time to make a commitment to payback. The Growlers Gulch Trail Crew has two St. Helens work parties scheduled for this summer – the first is Saturday, June 27th, at the 230A trail at South [Continue Reading]

Final TDG Details, Official Tour de Gulch Poster

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:56:18 +0000

All Systems Go The ride groups are set. The food preparation has begun. The beer is in the cooler at Fort George Brewery. The porta-potty has been ordered. Dave and I have been grooming the trails to our typical standards with the help of the patented Growlers [Continue Reading]

Der Fuhrer Talks Biking

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:55:47 +0000

[Continue Reading]

Meet Our Sponsors

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 23:39:46 +0000

We appreciate the efforts of the sponsors of Tour de Gulch XII – Boone Dog Bikes, Fort George Brewery, and the Bike Garage. Please support them in any way you can. Boone Dog Bikes has been a TDG sponsor since 2004. Jason Moon carries a compehensive product [Continue Reading]

Tarbell Ride Report Features Talking Chicken

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:49:16 +0000

PBR, Fried Chicken and Broken Derailleur As I was loading the cooler for the ride on Sunday, I went through the list of riders……Me (lover of IPA’s and all things northwest beer), Jeff Muldoon (lover of PBR), and Thomas Mueller (the only German I [Continue Reading]

Brigman Leads Three Rivers Cycling to TT Championship

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 14:34:23 +0000

Team Time Trial Lance Brigman – on loan from the Growlers Gulch Cycling Team – teamed with Greg Hartman, 56, Dave Russell, 67, and Mike Manning, 54, to help the Three Rivers Cycling Club capture the Oregon State Team Time Trial Championship in [Continue Reading]

TDG Quiz, Weather Forecast, Trail Conditions

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 22:33:27 +0000

Weather Forecast – The 10-day forecast says chance of showers and 70 on June 20th. Please note – we will not cancel. If raindrops ruin your ride, contact your therapist. Trail Conditions - Last week, we had hot weather that caused limb droop, followed [Continue Reading]

TDG Ride Groups

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:29:29 +0000

General Info Start time, parking, food, libations, TDG etiquette, etc. at http://writeteknorthwest.com/archives/1085/tour-de-gulch-hits-max-ridership Trail Work Two trail work days are planned in the St. Helens area for this summer. We want to do our best to get [Continue Reading]

Book, Mag, Music Recommendations

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:41:26 +0000

I’m hesitant to share the first two items below because they will only make you more fit and more skilled. But – in addition to serving as the Voice of Reason – the Godfather is also obligated to take care of people. Keep in mind, however, that [Continue Reading]

Project 529 Rides Angel Fire

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 13:11:24 +0000

It was a long trip, but Eric Loney, Darrell Jamieson and Chase Jamieson made it worthwhile. The trio – supported by Ryan Hicks and Sam Loney – traveled to Angel Fire, New Mexico, to compete in the Chile Challenge, one of three qualify events in U.S. [Continue Reading]

Sign up at TDG for St. Helens Trail Work

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 01:07:41 +0000

Brian Mahon will be heading up two work parties at Mount St. Helens – one in June and the other in July. I’ve mentioned before that the Forest Service has no money for trail work. That means it is up to riders like us to keep this magnificent area [Continue Reading]

Local Boys at Sea Otter

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 28 May 2009 03:38:06 +0000

Video production by Chase Jamieson. [Continue Reading]

Crump Withdraws Olive Branch, Refuses to Ride with Killer Burritos

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 26 May 2009 03:23:11 +0000

It looked as though things were finally going to work out. After a two-year rift, Andy Crump and the Killer Burritos appeared to be on the verge of patching things up, with Crump offering to serve as the KBs’ ride-leader at the 12th Annual Tour de [Continue Reading]

Al Hansen First at Spring Thaw

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 24 May 2009 13:14:39 +0000

Al Hansen decimated the opposition in the OBRA-sponsored Spring Thaw DH at Ashland, Oregon, on May 17th. Competing in the CAT 1 (25-29) classification, Hansen blazed to a 4:27.46, a full thirteen seconds ahead of the second-place finisher. Hansen is sponsored by [Continue Reading]

Crazy Sales at Boone Dog Bikes

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 22 May 2009 14:21:40 +0000

Spring inventory sale at Boone Dog Bikes – Saturday, May 23rd and Saturday, May 30th. Many other items on sale in addition to those listed below. 661 GLOVES FROM $10-$20 26″ XC TIRES $30 29″ XC $35 26″ DH TIRES $30 661 DIRT LIDS [Continue Reading]

Tour de Gulch Hits Max Ridership

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 21 May 2009 13:00:21 +0000

Sign-up Hits 60 The 12th Annual Tour de Gulch has reached max ridership of 60, or – if you’re talking to my wife – 50. Sign-up is now closed. If you or a friend would like to be added to the waiting list, let me know ASAP. I will notify you if we [Continue Reading]

Van Hoose Takes 5K Title

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 11 May 2009 12:56:34 +0000

CASTLE ROCK – Three Rivers Cycling stud Mike Van Hoose took the lead on the third leg and ground out a victory at the Growlers Gulch 5,000 on Saturday, May 9th, winning by a full eight minutes. Van Hoose covered the 28-mile course, which included 5,000 feet [Continue Reading]

Sign-up Begins For Tour de Gulch XII

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 10 May 2009 20:54:58 +0000

We’ve traditionally referred to the Tour de Gulch as “the best ride west of Castle Rock on the third Saturday in June.” But to tell you the truth, it has become one of the best celebrations of mountain biking and friendship in all of Southwest [Continue Reading]

Shoulder Injury Shelves Mel Norris

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 10 May 2009 19:15:16 +0000

Growlers Gulch Rule #1 says, “Ride ’til it breaks.” Melanie Norris took that literally – and then some. During the run-up to the Growlers Gulch 5K, five riders broke their bikes. On May 9th, Norris broke herself. The Growlers veteran [Continue Reading]

Big Changes at Boone Dog Bikes

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 10 May 2009 16:50:31 +0000

Jason Moon has announced major changes at Boone Dog Bikes. Kevin Knorr has decided to take a job at Bob’s. That means it will not be possible to keep the downtown shop open on its current schedule. Jason will continue to provide service to the core group of [Continue Reading]

All Systems Go for GG5K

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 07 May 2009 13:28:27 +0000

As Hamlet said in Act V, “the readiness is all” – or as Van Hoose said on Tuesday, “The hay is in the barn.” No more pre-rides or route analysis. The GG5K is set to go on Saturday, May 9th. Right now, we have 24 riders still on the [Continue Reading]

Brigman Inflicts Pain at Estacada

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 06 May 2009 12:37:32 +0000

Evidently, Lance Brigman wasn’t satisfied with crushing his competition by 5+ minutes in his last race at Estacada. In a 20-mile TT on May 3, Brigman – who is prepping for the upcoming GG5K – rubbed salt in the wounds, winning by a full six [Continue Reading]

Moon 1st at Fluidride, Hansen 2nd

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:49:50 +0000

Jason Moon walked away with the top spot in the Expert 40+ division at the Fluidride Cup Series race at Port Angeles on May 3rd and 4th. Al Hansen and Darrell Jamieson both racked up top-five finishes in their respective classifications. Moon blew away the [Continue Reading]

Basic Bike Skills on Display

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:10:42 +0000

Don’t be fooled by the title. This is a video of me doing some practice work in early 2008. Please do not ask me to demonstrate any of these moves. After breaking my thumb at Oakridge in July, I no longer possess the dexterity I once had. [Continue Reading]

Three Rivers Cycling Club Crashes and Burns at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:39:31 +0000

Hopefully, they got it out of their systems. It all started innocently enough. The Three Rivers Cycling Club showed up Saturday to fine-tune themselves and their equipment in preparation for next weekend’s Growlers Gulch 5,000. By the end of the day, they [Continue Reading]

Game On!

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:41:54 +0000

Gearing Up: Cage Aaron established himself as the 2009 GG5K favorite by racking up a time of 4:15 during a practice run last week. Fellow PUMP member Dennis Veatch said Aaron was not really pushing himself and should have a legit shot at a sub-four hour finish. GG [Continue Reading]

Dara Muldoon Featured in Columbian Story

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 12:31:45 +0000

On trail, we know her as Dara Muldoon. In the art world, she is Dara Hartman, and she is establishing an excellent reputation. Since most of us possess the class of Homer Simpson (You know who you are), it’s nice to know that at least one member of the GG [Continue Reading]

Locals Make Noise at Sea Otter Classic

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:47:41 +0000

Darrell Jamieson, Chase Jamieson, George Smith and Lloyd Smith returned from the Sea Otter Classic with trophies, great memories, and plenty to be proud of. The event, which took place April 16th through 19th in Monterey, California, drew nearly 10,000 riders and [Continue Reading]

Brigman Refuses Drug Test

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:49:57 +0000

Two-time Growlers Gulch 5,000 champion Lance Brigman has declined a request by the TDG Board of Directors to undergo testing for performance-enhancing substances. Several TDG Board members said they found it odd that Brigman, 62, continues to toast riders ranging [Continue Reading]

Stanton, McMaster Out – Haight, Edwards In

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:21:20 +0000

Additions and Deletions: Due to circumstances beyond their control, defending champion Bob Stanton – along with Ryan McMaster, Paul Prouxl, and Sam Loney – have withdrawn from the 2009 Growlers Gulch 5,000. Todd Edwards and Three Rivers Cycling guru [Continue Reading]

Brigman Sets Course Record at Estacada

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:46:45 +0000

Why was the fire truck called to the finish line at the Estacada Time Trial on April19th? Because Lance Brigman’s rear tire caught fire as he thoroughly toasted the competition during the race - This is not a joke. Brigman averaged 25 miles per hour and [Continue Reading]

Moon, Jamieson, Loney, Brigman Race Results

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:47:24 +0000

Jason Moon took the third-place trophy in the 40+ Expert Divison at the Fluidride Cup Race Series, which got underway at Port Angeles on April 4th and 5th. Moon finished in 3:12 and was followed by Darrell Jamieson with a 3:16. More than 400 racers showed for the [Continue Reading]

Norris Visits Germany As Part of Diplomatic Mission

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:56:06 +0000

Paul Norris of the Growlers Gulch Cycling Team is currently touring Europe on a goodwill mission. He was in Hamburg this weekend to develop cultural ties and discuss LifePort business. Norris took time out to demonstrate his musical skills to the Germans. Check out [Continue Reading]

Brigman Continues OBRA Dominance

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:29:50 +0000

Lance Brigman of the Growlers Gulch Cycling Team continues to dominate the 2009 OBRA point standings. He currently ranks first in Master’s and 16th among riders of all age groups in this year’s Ironman series. After racking up a first and second in two [Continue Reading]

GG5K Ride Route Now Available

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 03:35:51 +0000

Wheel #1 is on the line. Disclaimer: Riders who show up on May 9th understand that they are responsible for their own safety and for knowing the ride route. Ride Cancellation: Won’t happen unless the wind reaches dangerous levels. If you are intimidated by [Continue Reading]

Norris Photo Sets Off Frenzy Among Lederhosen Police

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:36:52 +0000

For a country that is deadly serious about its neutrality, Switzerland has displayed a disturbing level of aggressiveness in an incident involving Paul Norris of the Growlers Gulch Cycling Team Swiss authorities announced yesterday that they have temporarily [Continue Reading]

TDG Board Denies Brigman’s Appeal

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:22:18 +0000

The Tour de Gulch Board of Directors voted unanimously to deny Lance Brigman’s request for a handicap at the 2009 Growlers Gulch 5,000. The decision was handed down on Monday, March 9th. Brigman, who won the event in 2006 and 2007, elected to skip the 2008 [Continue Reading]

Sign-up Begins for GG5K

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 01:32:24 +0000

As a first-time GG5K participant commented after the 2008 ride – “It looked so much easier on paper.” It’s a piece of cake to talk about stepping up your training regimen, reducing your ride time, and earning that Five Wheel decal for your [Continue Reading]

Norris Dodges Growlers 5K

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:01:23 +0000

My, how the great have fallen. TDG board member Paul Norris announced on Thursday that he would be unable to attend this year’s Growlers Gulch 5K. Norris, who finished 3rd at the 2007 event, said a “business conflict” will require him to fly to [Continue Reading]

Fugitive from Justice

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 15:01:44 +0000

Most of you are aware that Mike van Hoose is an accomplished road, cyclocross, and mountain biker. What you might not know is that he is also a Fugitive from Justice! [Continue Reading]

Five Wheels on Tap at Growlers in 2009

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:40:04 +0000

The Tour de Gulch Board of Directors – with help from an independent study group – has established the essential dates for the 2009 ride season. Please note that there has been some slight tweaking, including the addition of another wheel.Yes, [Continue Reading]

Tour de Gulch Board of Directors Welcomes Growler Carlson

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:41:47 +0000

Growlers Gulch regulars Erik and Sara Carlson will soon be adding a rider to the newbie group. Their first child, a boy, is due in June. Fortunately, the due date falls right between the Growlers Gulch 5K and the Tour de Gulch, so that Erik will still have a chance [Continue Reading]

All Work Now Completed at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:22:27 +0000

Virtually every trail at Growlers is now open and ready to rock. We finished clean-up on Creation, JFK, Jekyll & Hyde, Secret Garden, Lower KMAs, Cooley’s Loop (north) and Rush. Thanks to Aaron Althauser, D. LeMonds, J. LeMonds, Paul Norris, Andy Crump, Jeff Lipton, Rob Larsen, Laurie Larsen, Wayne Nussbaum, and Erik Carlson for their [...]

Biking Tattoo Now Available for Viewing

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 04:23:54 +0000

I never envisioned myself getting a tattoo. Yet here I am telling you about my second one in the past 12 months. As much writing as I do, you’d think I’d be able to get everything I want to say down on paper. But I’ve discovered that writing and publishing all those words is not the same as serving [...]

Video Features Eric Loney, Al Hansen

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 19:29:13 +0000

This video was compiled by Sam Loney during the 2008 season. It consists of five clips that cover a variety of trails. Reminds me very much of my own riding style, other than the fact that these riders actually leave the ground. #1 – Brad Watt’s Trail in Oregon. Riders are Eric Loney, Aaron Nachtrab and Brad [...]

New Trail Line

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:51:42 +0000

Proposed new line from Jekyll and Hyde, north toward the Far Trail. There are several large forks of the Arkansas Creek in the way, but we might be able to pop out onto the gravel to get around them.Topo map with overlay from Dave. He insists he did this on his “personal time.” All of [...]

Growlers Trail Crew Knocks Out Big Miles

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 04:38:13 +0000

I’ve had a lot of great days as a mountain biker, but November 16th was the best one I’ve ever had while not on my bike. It was so gratifying to have 35 people show up to work on trail. Not sure if you realize this, but there are a lot of legitimate bike clubs out there that [...]

Cowlitz County Website Features Mountain Biking

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:43:17 +0000

In an effort to attract more mountain bikers to the area, the Cowlitz County Tourism Bureau asked me to create a page on their website highlighting some of the most popular rides in the vicinity, including Ape Canyon, Siouxon, Lewis River, and Falls Creek. Oddly, you’ll find that Growlers is not mentioned. The CCTB was especially interested in having me [...]

Loney Captures 2008 DH Crown

Jim LeMonds — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:32:39 +0000

Eric Loney finished the race season as the top-rated semi-pro in the Fluidride Cup Series DH and was fifth overall in the combined pro/semi-pro category. He was also the number one semi-pro at the 2008 Willamette Pass Series Downhill. Loney, a member of the Growlers Gulch Cycling Team, was the Oregon state semi-pro DH champion and the top-ranked [...]

New Dudes Ride at Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:54:08 +0000

Paul Norris had one goal for the first-ever New Dudes ride at Growlers on Sunday - to draw at least one more person than Mel drew for the women’s ride. It was close, but he succeeded as eight riders showed up to tour the GG single-track. After an unfortunate incident that saw one of the New Dudes suffer [...]

St. Helens – Ape Canyon and Mount Margaret

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:05:53 +0000

Got a chance to ride at St. Helens twice last weekend. The weather was phenomenal, and the rain earlier in the week made the tread as good as you’re ever going to see it. South Side – Ape Canyon On Friday, Rob and I hooked up with Paul, Jeff, Dara, Seattle Fred, and Paul’s little brother, John. Fred [...]

Race Video

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:00:52 +0000

Race footage courtesty of Ryan Hicks featuring Eric Loney and George Smith. Video was shot at Mount Hood and Port Angeles. I’m a little skeptical about Ryan’s choice of music but I appreciate the work he’s done.

Growlers Gulch TT Creates Huge Buzz

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 15:51:47 +0000

The turnout out was large, the riders were phenomenal, and the times were shockingly low at the first-ever Growler Gulch Time Trial on Saturday, September 20th. Eric Loney, the Northwest’s top-ranked semi-pro, blazed to a 7:34.4 to claim first place. He was followed by Alex Hansen with a 7:45.3 and Bob “Fixie” Stanton with a 7:53.3. Denise Vernon [...]

Golden Spike Ride Report and Photos

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:10:44 +0000

More than a dozen riders – including a large contingent from PUMP - survived a guided tour on the Golden Spike from Stella to Growlers Gulch on Sunday, September 13th. The 17-mile jaunt lived up to its reputation – an epic ride across varied terrain that made you work for everything you got. Golden Spike architect Joel Rogauskus and Harmony regular [...]

Chris King Raffle for Smitty, Chase Rides Whistler, TT List Grows

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:45:56 +0000

Jason Moon of Boone Dog Bikes has announced that he will be raffling a Chris King headset at the downtown shop on September 20th – after the Growlers Gulch TT has wrapped up. All proceeds will go toward helping the family of Guy Smith. As you know, Smitty recently went through heart surgery and can use [...]

Smith Creek

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:13:20 +0000

Rob, Jack, Dave and I rode the Smith Creek loop on September 5th. With the extra distance from Marble Mountain, we finished with 35 miles and 5,000 feet of climbing. The tread was in great shape after the recent rain, and we had a good pace on the climb up from the trailhead. Rob finished in [...]

Lance, T-shirts, Women, Smitty, Trail

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:30:32 +0000

So much news. So little space. Lance rides. Mel organizes another women’s ride. Old dudes hack away on new trail lines at Growlers. Still a chance for you to purchase one of the few remaining t-shirts. And don’t forget to reserve space on your calendar for the Growlers Gulch TT on September 20th. Boone Dog Bikes Organizes [...]

Commercial for Boone Dog Bikes

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 01:51:41 +0000

Would you buy a bike from this man?

Loney Rocks to Win at Willamette Pass

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:28:46 +0000

Eric Loney toasted the competition to take the Oregon state semi-pro downhill title at Willamette Pass on Sunday, August 17th. Loney’s winning time of 3:50.11 was the second-fastest of the day and just behind the top time posted in the pro division. Loney currently ranks first in the six-race Fluidride Cup series, which continues this week at [...]

Brigman Crushes Competition at Peoria, Larch Mountain

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 02:28:36 +0000

Lance Brigman of the Growlers Gulch Cycling Club added two more titles to his trophy case in early August, winning both the Ouch Hill Climb at Corbett, Oregon, on August 3rd and the OBRA Time Trial Championship at Peoria, Oregon, on August 10th. Brigman completed the Ouch Hill course, which featured 3,000 feet of climbing, in 1:10:15, more than five minutes ahead of [...]

Girls Hit Growlers

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:08:04 +0000

Thanks to Melanie “Ride Master” Norris, the first-ever women’s ride at Growlers was a huge success. A dozen women showed for the event on Sunday, August 9. Mel has already scheduled the next women’s ride for Sunday, August 24th. If you, or someone you know, would like to sign on, contact Mel at Melanie.Norris@kyocera.com. The three-hour tour [...]

Growlers Crew Assists with Ape Canyon Clean-up

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 15:45:49 +0000

Seventeen volunteers participated in a bottom-to-top clean-up of the Ape Canyon Trail at Mount St. Helens on Sunday, August 3rd. The weather was great and everyone - including four first-timers – made it to the top. The event was sponsored by Boone Dog Bikes, MOPI, PUMP, and the Tour de Gulch Board of Directors. Four PUMP members [...]

Boone Dog Bikes Announces Affilation with Niner

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 03:17:39 +0000

Local riders now have access to a full range of Niner rides, courtesy of Boone Dog Bikes. Jason Moon announced in late July that his shop has an EMD 9 frame on the way (retail $499) and is able to order any bike from the Niner catalog. Bikers will be able to purchase anything from the single-speed One 9 [...]

Golden Spike Ride Report

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 14:30:56 +0000

Bob Stanton and Dave Barnum – on a fixie and single-speed respectively – completed an out-and-back on the Golden Spike trail on July 19. Bob confirms that this ride is truly an epic. Length: 36 miles roundtrip from gate-to-gate. 16 miles from Stella gate to Monahan Creek Ascent: 6,000 feet with a max elevation of a little [...]

Locals Rack Up Good Times at Mountain Bike Oregon

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:05:29 +0000

Fourteen area riders were among more than 200 participants at the July session of Mountain Bike Oregon in Oakridge. Not only did we have a great time, but we learned that we aren’t embarrassing – at least when it comes to overall fitness and technical skill. Our group – which was the largest at the event - included [...]

Boone Dog Talks Bikes

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:34:50 +0000

An interview with Jason Moon of Boone Dog Bikes. Credit goes to Ryan Hicks. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRdaTSMOscE

Dirty Dozen Survives Ride ‘em All

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:09:28 +0000

Twelve riders completed the first-ever Growlers Gulch Ride ‘em All on Saturday, July 12. The event gave participants an opportunity to ride nearly every foot of the best single-track west of Castle Rock. Limb droop and heat posed problems, but the tread was in sterling condition. A follow-up to the Growlers Gulch 5,000, which was held in May, [...]

Tour de Gulch Slideshow

Jim LeMonds — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:54:02 +0000

I tried to get everybody in here. Apologies if I missed you. Thanks to Darrell, George, Lloyd, and the Jamieson boys for making this happen. I hope you like Springsteen. I’m already looking forward to TDG XII!

Boone Dog Bikes Announces New Hours, Chris King Affiliation

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:52:35 +0000

Boone Dog Bikes and Northwest Bike Tech of Longview, Washington, have announced a change in hours. The shop will now be open from noon until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Jason will be in the shop on Saturdays. Boone Dog Bikes also announced that it has received approval to sell Chris King components. [...]

TDG XI Leaves Riders with Smiles on Their Faces

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:04:26 +0000

Sunny skies set the tone for the 57 riders who participated in this year’s Tour de Gulch on Saturday, June 14th. Billed as the “best ride west of Castle Rock on the second Saturday in June,” TDG XI did not disappoint. Things got rolling with three hours of guided riding on the sweet Growlers Gulch [...]

Video – Darrell and Eric at Sea Otter

Jim LeMonds — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:48:53 +0000

Below is a clip of Darrell Jamieson and Eric Loney riding at Sea Otter earlier this year. Darrell is currently rated 3rd nationally in Expert DH (45-49). Eric is rated 1st nationally in Semi-Pro DH (35-39) and 4th among all Semi-Pro DHers, regardless of age [Continue Reading]

Video – Rob on No Problem

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:18:51 +0000

[Continue Reading]

Record Number of Riders Completes Growlers Gulch 5,000

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 11 May 2008 16:05:51 +0000

Bob Stanton shrugged off a flat tire early in the ride and surged back to capture the top spot in Saturday’s Growlers Gulch 5,000 with a time of 3:32. Even more incredible was the fact that Stanton accomplished the feat aboard his steel-frame, fixed-gear Vulture. Fourteen riders completed the 28-mile course, a record for the event, with three [...]

Kevin Knorr Opens Northwest Bike Tech

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:30:02 +0000

Kevin Knorr, formerly the assistant manager at Byman’s Bikes in Longview, opened a bike repair shop in downtown Longview in early April. Northwest Bike Tech is located at 1331 14th Avenue, in the suite occupied by Jason Moon of Boone Dog Bikes. “Jason will still be running Boone Dog Bikes and making sure that everyone [...]

Boone Dog Bikes Opens in Downtown Longview

Jim LeMonds — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:53:47 +0000

After operating out of his home on Boone Road in Kelso for the past five years, Jason Moon and his lovely wife, Alexis, have opened a bike parts showroom at 1331 14th Avenue, Suite 204, in Longview. Boone Dog Bikes stocks performance parts, frames and bikes. [Continue Reading]

Tour de Gulch History

Jim LeMonds — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:03:28 +0000

A small group of us who ride and build trail at Growlers have hosted the TDG each year since 1998. We aren’t trying to attract big crowds of strangers or get a write-up on MTBR. And we don’t make any money. We love to ride and we enjoy sharing with people who have an appreciation [...]

Adams to St. Helens on the Boundary Trail: Epic Extraordinaire

Jim LeMonds — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 04:24:30 +0000

If anyone tells you they’ve cleaned every hill and obstacle on the Boundary Trail between Adams and St. Helens, they’re full of shit. This 50+-mile mountain biking trek is an epic on steroids, far more difficult than any ride I have previously attempted. We started at Council Lake near Mount Adams on Tuesday morning and finished [...]

Protected: Complete GG Map – 2009

Jim LeMonds — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 02:53:16 +0000