TULSA TOUGH
+SPEEDCLUB MEDIA
This past weekend showcased what is arguably the pinnacle of crit racing on the calendar, Tulsa Tough. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, generous prize purses, and irresistible allure, Tulsa Tough is an event no serious racer in the US overlooks. From what we could tell, only MG took on the back-to-back Unbound 200 X Tulsa Tough Challenge and wasted no time in making his presence felt at the electrifying weekend of competition.
The festivities kicked off on Friday night with the Blue Dome Criterium, situated in the pulsating heart of downtown. An eight-corner affair, the Blue Dome course is infamous for its intensity and propensity for crashes. Undeterred, MG injected his trademark energy into the races, pushing the limits of the field. In a thrilling finale, with former Culture Edit Podcast guest and close confidant Luke Lamperti emerging victorious in a frenzied bunch sprint. MG crossed the line toward the front of the lead group.
On Saturday, the riders headed to the Arts District, offering a respite from the chaos that was Blue Dome with its smoother, safer course. However, the relief was quickly replaced by a sweltering heat, with the real feel soaring to a scorching 104 degrees, temperatures on the asphalt measuring at a sizzling 120. So an average mid-August Pizza ride.
The race started off relatively tranquil, with riders cautiously navigating the furnace-like conditions. MG, ever the catalyst for action, established the early break but withdrew from the move when he recognized the lack of teams represented.
As the race approached its conclusion, the early break still hung with a small gap and were coming back to the bunch. In a move that could be described as equal parts strategic genius and pure audacity, MG launched himself to the two men remaining out front, went straight past and pulled their gap from 10 to over 30 seconds in the closing laps! It had us all on the edge of our seats.
Carrying the fatigue from Unbound MG wasn’t the most confident in his ability for the top step on the night, so instead, he played some tactical games with the racer who was not working and let the working rider escape for the win. MG rolled in for third. Very few riders have done the Unbound-Tulsa double and to step on a podium? HUGE.
And then there was Sunday. The day that brought forth one of the most legendary races on the American cycling circuit. Enter the infamous “Cry Baby Hill,” a name that evokes both dread and excitement in equal measure. This hallowed ground of cycling lore not only rivals but potentially surpasses the raucous energy of Athens Twilight, drawing crowds that redefine the term “rowdy”
A demanding course with a stair step climb every lap provided non-stop action for spectators near and far. MG dug deep and raced with all his might, drawing inspiration from the thunderous roar of the crowd. Caught behind some crashes on the final lap and not with his normal legs on the day, he was frustrated. Amidst the disappointment, he couldn't help but marvel at the sheer spectacle of an event he’d just experienced.
We are incredibly proud of how our resident pro is representing our community. Pushing himself to the absolute limits and doing things no one has ever done before. Single-handedly destroying full teams this entire season, and clearly having a ton of fun doing it. The Provocateur - a label given by others is starting to stick.
MGR CORNER
Hey everyone!
I am writing to you from the airport as I bid farewell to Tulsa Tough. This weekend was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The energy was absolutely electric, with the entire city rallying around this event. If you’re looking for a bike race to spectate, Tulsa is the place to be.
Overall, I’m incredibly happy with how the weekend unfolded. Unbound was a beast like no other, and it certainly took more than a week to fully recover from such an event. My engine remained strong this weekend, but the snap in the legs was far from fully loaded. I felt good, not great.
Friday was the most dangerous race I’ve ever done in my life. Luke Lamperti, Summerhill, and a few others all agreed. I was beyond happy to stay upright and while the legs were a bit sluggish, I still raced a strong race. Saturday I felt a little better, opened up a bit, and am so pleased with the move I made in the final. I was more than ecstatic to stand on the podium. Sunday I suffered, really feeling the fatigue, but thriving off the energy and enjoying the absolutely incredible atmosphere at Cry Baby Hill.
I’m leaving this event on a high. We’re learning so much through the calendar this year and it leaves me beyond excited to come back for more. We’re already planning for the coming year and each event teaches us something new, bringing even more anticipation for what lies ahead.
Few days at home in Atlanta before I head up to Milwaukee for the last 7 days of Tour of Americas Dairylands!
Hope to see you for our SpeedClub ride this Sunday!
Happy riding,
MG