Written by guest blogger and five-time finisher Tobi Tungl.
If there’s one thing you’ll learn about the Michigan Coast to Coast Gravel Grinder, it’s this: no one conquers 204 miles alone. Sure, you’re the one pedaling through the sand, gravel and hills, but behind every successful rider is an all-star support crew making sure you keep rolling. They’re the unsung heroes of the race and trust me, having the right crew can make or break your day.
Here’s the deal: C2C 200 mile is a crew-supported race. You need your own team to meet you at designated aid stations, or you can join the “Dirtbag Race Support” crew which is fundraising for various causes. And let me tell you, rolling up to the Dirtbag pit stop is like arriving at an F1 pit crew! Bottles swapped, snacks handed off, a quick tune-up if needed and encouragement that makes you feel like a rockstar. They’re pros, and honestly, you couldn’t ask for better support. For those tackling the 100 mile, you can have support at the Big M checkpoint or head off self-supported (more in the riders handbook that the race director updates before the race day).
If you’re bringing your own crew, planning is key. They’ll need the course map, checkpoint locations and a solid understanding of your ETA at each stop. Timing is everything…no one wants to roll into an aid station only to find their crew stuck behind a line at the Dublin General store buying jerky. Make sure they’ve got everything ready to go: bottles, hydration mixes, snacks, spare tubes, tools, maybe even a chair for you to sit on while you refuel. Keep it organized, simple and easy to grab.
Your crew is more than logistics, they’re your hype squad. At mile 160, when you’re questioning your life choices and debating whether that climb is even worth it, they’ll be there to remind you that you’ve got this. A quick snack, an ice-cold bottle and a pep talk can completely reset your mindset. Pro tip? Be clear about what you need, whether it’s a handoff on the go or a full pit stop with a sandwich and don’t forget to thank them. They’re giving up their day to make sure you crush yours.
Now, if you don’t have a personal crew or you just don’t want to rope your friends and family into a cross-state adventure…the Dirtbag fundraising crew is your secret weapon. These folks have support down to a science. They’re efficient, organized and know exactly what riders need to keep moving. Plus, you’re contributing to great causes while getting next-level support. Win-win. I have used the Dirtbag peeps for the last 5 years, top notch and highly recommended.
The key to a great race day is setting your crew up for success. Pack everything they might need…hydration, nutrition, spare clothes, tools and make sure they know where to be and when to be there. Expect the unexpected, whether that’s bad weather (2024 was wild!), mechanical issues, or the inevitable emotional rollercoaster that comes with 204 miles of gravel. And remember, a little gratitude goes a long way.
When it’s all said and done, your crew will be the unsung heroes of your C2C experience. They’ll keep you fueled, hydrated, and motivated through the highs and lows and when you cross that finish line, you’ll know you couldn’t have done it without them. So whether you’re assembling your own dream team or joining the Dirtbag squad, make sure you’ve got the support you need to crush this race.
Michigan Coast to Coast isn’t just about the miles. It’s about the community, the shared adventure, and the people, both on and off the bike who make the journey unforgettable.