My father, Richard Lawrence, and I drove up to Springfield, OH last weekend for the 16th annual Calvin’s Challenge. Calvin’s Challenge is a 12-hour bike race that is designed to be a tune-up for the Michigan 24-hour Challenge in mid June. There are usually several hundred riders participating in a number of different classes (single age classes in 5-year increments, tandems, recumbents, fixed gear, and HPVs). Although we did not see any this year, there are usually a couple of “high wheeler” participants that lend charm and mystique to this ultra time trial.
The race course consists of 2 different loops. The first loop is 50 miles and the second loop, which opens in the afternoon, is just 7 miles. You ride as many long loops as possible and then move to the short loop to complete the 12 hours. The rules are simple: no cheating and no whining. This year, the race organizers also offered a 6-hour option and a 100-mile time trial.
We enjoyed the typical Calvin’s weather: steady 20-25 mph winds and around an inch of stinging rain. In the afternoon, the rain stopped and the wind got stronger. The temperature was in the 60s. In past events, it has been much colder. While the course seemed fairly flat, according to my Garmin Edge (GPS), my total ascent was over 7,000 feet for the 211 miles.
My father won the 6-hour male 80-84 age group with 64 miles. I earned the “no medal” medal in the male 45-49 age group with 210 miles (3 long, 8 shorts, and 4 miles the partial). The “no medal” medal is awarded to racers who ride over 200 miles but don’t place in their division. I was actually 5th in my age group. I missed the 3rd place podium spot by 9 miles.
I urge any rider looking for a challenge to add Calvin’s to their list of annual events. There are many different riders with varying styles and abilities. So, there is a place for anyone with the desire to ride. You can read about the event and view past and present results on the web at http://www.calvinschallenge.com
Joel Lawrence
