Remembering 2010 - Newspaper articles, photos, videos, and more!
Professional video available!
Blazing Rock Productions accompanied FreeWheel on our cross-state journey this year and videoed the full adventure.
You'll want this video as a keepsake and reminder of what a great time you had. See all your new FreeWheel family and friends
along with the beauty of this year's eastern Oklahoma route. The ups, the downs, the swimming holes! It's all here for you
to enjoy over and over and to show family and friends what you accomplished!
FreeWheel was fortunate again this year to have Tulsa KJRH sportscaster Jason Shackelford along for the ride. Jason rode the first four days of FreeWheel 2010 and posted the video blogs below ... enjoy!
Here's some of what's new for the 32nd annual Oklahoma FreeWheel ...
Still A Great Value - Full week adult registration will be $125 this year, still
a great value for seven days of fully supported bicycle riding. See the registration section on this page for a
full list of prices for the various week-long and half-week options.
Bus Registration - Bus registration will be available from the get-go this year. You will be albe
to register for the ride and reserve a space on the bus on the same form. This should be a welcome change for all our participants who leave
the driving to us and enjoy a leisurely ride to and from the ride start and finish.
Tees - This year's ride T-shirts will be our old reliable cotton tees. However, we'll
be offering for sale some special FreeWheel Tech Tees at the Rider Services tent during FreeWheel. We want to see how these are received
by our ridership. Check'em out and let us know what you think.
Indoor Camping Charges - Host communities will be charging for indoor camping in 2010.
FreeWheel has always been a camping tour. Indoor camping has not always been provided. We've found host communities
increasingly challenged to provide indoor sleeping facilities, especially on a free basis. So you can expect host communities to
be charging a nominal nightly fee, $5 or so, for indoor camping this year.
Roady Charges - There will be a small charge this year for family or friends who are not riding
but who are accompanying riders each day, sharing camping, shower, and toilet facilities, etc. More information will be available on this
in the coming weeks as the registration forms are finalized. Non-riders are welcome and are part of the FreeWheel tradition.
But we've reached a point where they need to pay their own way for the services on the ride. Tentative plans are for a fee of $40 for full-week
adults and $20 for full-week kids 6-15, which includes the dinner and concert on Friday night. More to come ...
NO MORE than 2 bags of 35 pounds or less each (Not new, but still
a work in progress!)
Along with the SUV craze of the past 10 years, FreeWheelers bags seem to have trended toward "super" size. We will continue our efforts to "return
to reason" in 2010 asking each FreeWheel rider to bring no more than two bags of no more than thirty-five pounds each. Bags larger than a
standard Army duffle bag are simply too big to handle effectively and safely. So, be considerate of yourself and others
and pack two smaller bags rather than one you could put a charcoal grill in. Your back will thank you, as will the helpful
volunteers in each host community who unload the luggage truck each day. Please don't make us turn you away at the luggage truck steps
or have you tossing out extra gear like someone having to discard sharp objects and liquid shampoo at the security line at the airport.
We'll all be the better for our combined efforts at downsizing.
Here's some of what you can expect this coming June, both old and new ...
Bus Transportation - Bus transportation is offered for the following ONLY; from Tulsa to Hugo
for the start on Saturday morning, June 12th. Return to Tulsa from the finish in Joplin on Saturday, June 19th, and return to Hugo from the finish in Jopling on Saturday,
June 19th. NO OTHER TRANSPROTATION OPTIONS ARE OFFERED. See Transportation section below and the registration form
for details.
Those wishing to attempt coordination of rides with others should feel free to
post their interest on our forum or the
FreeWheel Facebook page specifying routes and departures, etc.
Early Route Announcement - We're continuing to build on a tradition begun last year
of announcing the ride route at the first seminar to be held in Tulsa. This year's announcement will be made on Tuesday evening,
January 19th. Full route information will be posted here the next day, so not to worry if you can't make it to Tulsa for the
announcement.
Early Registration Benefits - We will continue to encourage riders to plan ahead and register
early by offering early registration pricing benefits. Those registering prior to May 1, 2010, will enjoy a $20 cheaper rate (full week)
than those who dally. As you might imagine, the earlier we know how many riders we'll have, the better we and our host communities
can prepare to serve you.
Route Maps On Line Prior to Ride - The daily route maps will be made available
on line well before the ride. You'll be able to see the complete route, download the maps, and print them if you like.
Last Night Celebration - 2007 was the first year we offered a Friday night celebration
complete with a great meal and musical concert. This has been a well-received addition to FreeWheel and will continue this year.
We've had some great entertainments and good eats so far and don't think you'll be disappointed by this year's Friday night
offering. The meal and concert are part of your FreeWheel registration.
Shower Truck - Mike and the ShowerMobile will have 17 hot showers waiting to cleanse the dust
from your tired bodies each afternoon with separate facilities for men and women including sinks, mirrors, and a spacious
dressing area. The shower facilities are provided by ShowerMobile.
NO BIKES or CLEATS Indoors - With strong approval from all of our host communities, we'll be
continuing the practice of keeping bicycles and cleated shoes outside of all indoor accommodations. Bring a lock for your bike
so that you can secure it outdoors. And thanks in advance for helping us care for the host community facilities and show them
how much we appreciate their providing a place for us to lay our weary bodies down.
NO GLOVES at Rest and Lunch Stops - "Rotovirus," "H1N1," and "intestinal disorder" are words and phrases
that we do NOT want to be a part of your FreeWheel memories. So join the majority of FreeWheel riders who've heeded our request
to remove bike gloves at rest stops. Removing your gloves, using the hand sanitizer provided, and practicing common-sense food and
drink handling precautions will assure that we all enjoy a week free of illness!
Registration forms were sent early in February, 2010, to riders who've been on FreeWheel in recent years. If you're
new to FreeWheel, or haven't received a registration form by mid-February, youcan
download a registration form here in PDF format, fill it out, and mail it in.
Note: You'll need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open
the PDF Registration Form. If you don't have the reader installed on your machine, you can
download it for free from the Adobe website.
Full and half-week registrations will again being offered. Riders who can't join us for the entire week may register for
Sunday through Wednesday, June 13th-16th, or Wednesday through Saturday, June 16th-19th. We'll be using wristbands again
to identify riders and help us keep track of folks.
Registration is limited to 1,000 riders - We continue to maintain this limit so that we can better plan the logistics
surrounding such a large event. We had 800+ riders in 2009 and we anticipate a large turnout for 2010. So be sure to register
early!
Note that early registrants will again receive a substantial discount. So don't procrastinate!
Registration Fee for FreeWheel 2010
Through April 30th, 2010:
Full Week
Adult: $125
Child 6-15: $80
Under 6: Free
Half Week (Sunday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday
Adult: $80
Child 6-15: $65
Under 6: Free
After April 30th, 2010:
Full Week
Adult: $145
Child 6-15: $100
Under 6: Free
Half Week (Sunday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday
Adult: $90
Child 6-15: $75
Under 6: Free
Here's what you get for your registration fee:
Route maps for each day
Well-marked route
Route security provided by Oklahoma Highway Patrol
At least two free fruit and drink rest stops each day
SAG support on the route each day
Mechanical SAG support on the route each day and in camp each afternoon/evening
Luggage transportation for up to two 35 pound bags between host communities
Camping space in each host community
Shower truck and portable toilets to supplement provisions in host camp sites
Registration packet full of info
End-of-ride packet
Identifying bike tag, two baggage tags, and wrist band
End-of-the-Trail meal and entertainment on Friday evening
Wrist Bands - Wrist bands identify FreeWheel riders will be provided when you check in at the start community.
You'll need your wrist band to participate in the End-Of-The-Trail meal and entertainment celebration.
Bands may also be recognized by host community merchants in offering discounts to FreeWheel participants. Wrist bands
will also be available for purchase by non-riders for the End-of-the-Trail meal and celebration.
Packet Pickup & Walk-in Registration - Registration packets will be available the
week of May 26th. Once again, walk-in registration and packet pickup will be available in Tulsa at the Mapco Plaza
Building, 1717 South Boulder Avenue. The FreeWheel office at the Mapco Plaza building will be open from noon until 6pm
on each of the following dates:
Wednesday, May 26th, through Friday, May 28th
Tuesday, May 31st, through Friday, June 4th
NOTE: Office will NOT be open the week of June 7th!
Registration and packets will also be available in the starting community on Saturday, June 12th, at the FreeWheel
Information Canopy. Additionally, you may elect to receive your registration packet via mail for a small
additional charge.
Refunds - registration fees will be refunded, less a $10 processing fee, for cancellations made in writing and
received by midnight, Sunday, June 7th, 2010. There will be no refund for T-shirts or Jersey's you've already picked up or
received via mail.
If you have questions regarding registration that aren't answered here or on the registration form when they're
made available in early February, feel free to contact us.
Bus transportation will once again be provided by Kraft Tours
of Tulsa.
NOTE: As buses fill, don't give up hope! Post a message to the OKFreeWheel forum soliciting ride-sharing and there just might be
someone out there with room to spare for you and your bike!
Bus
Bus transportation will be available for the 2010 event from Tulsa to start community on Saturday, June 12th, and
returning from the the finish to Tulsa, as well as from the finish to the start community, after the finish on Saturday,
June 19th.
Departure and Return Info - The bus(es) will leave from Tulsa for the start community at 7am sharp the morning of
June 12th. The return buses from the finish will leave at 2pm on Saturday, June 19th. Riders need to plan their final day's
ride so that they arrive in time to box and load their bike for the return trip.
Bus reservations will be taken at the same time that you register! This is a new feature and we hope it will simplify
your FreeWheel planning..
Note that reservations are NOT taken directly by Kraft Tours.
Here are the details (in all three instances, bikes are included in the transportation plan, though cyclists must provide
their own boxes if they wish to box their bike and boxes can be carried, collapsed, in the luggage truck during the week):
NOTE: The only ride start bus option available is Tulsa to Hugo. There is NO bus from Joplin to Hugo at the beginning
of the week.
Tulsa to Hugo - Saturday, June 12, 2010 NOTE -- Bus is FULL as of 5/14/10 !!! Cost: $35/person
Departure Date and Time: Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7:00am sharp!
Departure Location: Buses will leave Tulsa from the northeast parking lot of the Eastwood
Baptist Church located at 949 S. 91st E. Ave. This is not an enclosed lot but police will be checking the lot throughout
the week. Neither FreeWheel, Inc. nor Eastwood Baptist Church are liable for any theft or damage that may occur.
Here's a map of the parking arrangement.
Joplin, MO, to Tulsa - Saturday, June 19th, 2010 Cost: $25/person
Departure Date and Time: Saturday, June 19, 2010, 2pm
Joplin, MO, to Hugo - Saturday, June 19th, 2010 NOTE -- Bus is FULL as of 5/14/10 !!! Cost: $60/person
Departure Date and Time: Saturday, June 19, 2010, 2pm
Parking: A parking location will be available in Hugo for those driving
to the start and taking the bus back at the end of the week. This info will be available in your rider packet
or in Hugo when you arrive if you do not pick up your packet ahead of time. And we'll post here if the information
is available prior to June 12th.
Bikes are carried by the luggage truck that leaves with the buses. Many bus riders "box" their bikes.
FreeWheel, Inc. is not responsible for any loss or damage to bicycles. After unboxing bikes at the start, boxes
are flattened and carried at the front of the luggage truck until the end of the ride when bus riders re-box their
bikes for the return to Tulsa or Hugo.
Parking at the start and finish
Parking will be available in Hugo and Joplin, as well as in Muldrow for half-week
riders, for those driving to the start or finish and leaving their car for the week. We'll provide the exact location
and directions as soon as they're available. Though we ask local law enforcement to keep an eye on vehicles parked in
the start, finish, and mid-week towns, they are not guarded 24x7 nor is the parking location likely to be fenced or
otherwise secured. In other words, parking is at your own risk. We've not had any problems with cars being bothered or
vandalized in the past, but that's not a guarantee.
Boxing Your Bike
Boxing your bike is by far the safest way to transport your bicycle for those opting for any of the bus options.
That said, about 50% of bus riders have elected not to box their bikes in the past few years. It's up to you.
If you've never "boxed" your bike before, you may wish to get assistance from your local bike shop.
Or review the articles at the following web sites for instructions on how best to box your bike:
The 2010 FreeWheel route has been announced.
Here are the host communities for each day and the approximate
daily mileages (NOTE that mileages are APPROXIMATE but should be within 2-4 miles plus or minus of the actual route).
Day 0, 6/12 - 24 miles, Hugo to Red River and return
Day 1, 6/13 - 55 miles, Hugo to Clayton
Day 2, 6/14 - 70 miles, Clayton to Heavener
Day 3, 6/15 - 71 miles, Heavener to Muldrow
Day 4, 6/16 - 61 miles, Muldrow to Tahlequah
Day 5, 6/17 - 50 miles, Tahlequah to Pryor
Day 6, 6/18 - 67 miles, Pryor to Miami
Day 7, 6/19 - 38 miles, Miami to Joplin, MO
Route Maps - click on the links below for PDF versions of each day's route in color or black and white! Each file is about 2 meg in size.
NOTE - DAYS 3, 4, and 5 have REVISED lunch stops and Days 3 and 4 have minor route changes.
Favorite Host City Named FreeWheel Director, Ellen Proctor, has announced that Muldrow received the most votes in this year's favorite
host community polling. She'll be presenting them with a nice plaque at an upcoming Chamber of Commerce meeting!
Links and Info - Host Communities and Beyond This section will contain information about our 2010 host cities; there history, local attractions, and more.
Learning a little about the towns and communities we're visiting will make your trip more enjoyable.
Check back following January 19th's route announcement to get all the info!
Hugo is the county seat of Choctaw County, located in deep Southeast Oklahoma, approximately 60 miles from the Arkansas and Louisiana borders,
and 25 miles north of Paris, Texas.
In the late 60s Hugo was designated as the termination point of the Indian Nation Turnpike, which provides a major transportation artery to
northern and central Oklahoma. In the late 60s, Congress authorized the construction of the fabulous Hugo Lake, a 13,000 acre hot spot for fishing
and camping enthusiasts. Most recently, Hugo has won distinction as one of only 30 rural Enterprise Communities in the United States.
... read more ...
Clayton, Oklahoma is located in Pushmataha County between two beautiful lakes and a state park nearby. Clayton is 77 miles southwest
of Fort Smith, AR and 114 miles south of Tulsa, OK. Paris, Texas is only 83 miles south by Hwy 271.
Clayton is a wonderful place to spend a weekend or a week. Whether you want to go boating, fishing, swimming, four-wheeling, or visit
the local Clayton attractions, there is something for everyone in the family.
... read more ...
One of the most beautiful little meadows in all the vast Indian Territory was called Prairie of the Long Grass. It had about
it something that made a wandering man want to stop. Stay a while. Maybe forever. It spilled from the bent point of Poteau Mountain
like seed from a broken sack, carpeting the valley with green in summer, brown in winter. Where Nature has poured out every kind of
loveliness with inexhaustible profusion. The meadows tempt the traveler almost irresistibly to linger, or even take up his abode in them.
Thus it has been forever: The hills, valleys, springs and prairies scattered like thrown gemstones across the Southeastern corner
of Oklahoma have tugged at the souls of wandering men. And a village some have said was named for Heaven sits at the middle of it.
City of Heavener, LeFlore County, Oklahoma. Prairie of the Long Grass. A place to make the heart hurt. It draws and holds a certain
kind of person as magnet draws steel.
Excerpted from the Heavener page on the
Talemina Scenic Drive web site. ... read more ...
During and after the Great Depression agriculture was the dominate employer in the Muldrow region. In 1932 the town had two feed mills and a broom factory.
The focus later shifted to truck farming, primarily corn, green beans, spinach, and other crops.
In 1960 the population had expanded to 1,137. In 1965 the Muldrow City Lake's dam was constructed, providing a better water system.
As the town began to attract businesses, the growth continued and in 1990 there were 2,889 residents. In 1995 OK Industries opened a
poultry processing plant, which employed 185 in 2002. A large furniture store and a grocery store were the other largest, non-government employers.
In 1995 Muldrow native Shawntel Smith was selected as Miss America.
In 2000 the U.S. census registered 3,104 inhabitants, and the public school system enrolled 1,600 students from prekindergarten through high school.
... read more ...
Tahlequah is the shining jewel in the sparkling crown of the most wonderful part of Oklahoma -- Green Country.
The history of the Cherokees is a defining part of Tahlequah, with the first official Cherokee explorers arriving in 1809.
There are many stories about the naming of Tahlequah, but many believe the name refers to a meeting arranged to select a site for the
union western Cherokees and the newly arrived eastern Cherokees. Because of heavy rain, only two delegates arrived. According to the legend,
the decision to settle on the present site came from the phrase Tah-le-ya-quah, meaning two is enough to decide.
... read more ...
One of Pryor's most appealing qualities is its far-reaching lifestyle options and quality of life features. The community and its area offer
several distinct lifestyles to meet the needs of it residents.
Located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, the beautiful scenery around Pryor attracts all who love the outdoor life. An abundance of
lakes, parks and waterfalls offers opportunities for all who enjoy nature, hiking, fishing, and all water sports at their finest.
... read more ...
City of Miami Municipal Swimming Pool - 14 B Street SE
Miami is conveniently located in the northeast corner of Oklahoma. The location is 20 minutes from the Missouri border,
20 minutes from the Arkansas border, and 15 minutes from the Kansas border. As the hub of the 4-state region, Miami has become a favorite and
exciting destination. With easy access to the interstates, Miami is easy to find and access whether you are traveling in a group or as an individual.
Life is good in Joplin! With a population of more than 47,000, Joplin still has a "hometown" feel of safe, pleasant,
residential areas, friendly people and neighborhood schools. Thanks to a market area of nearly 500,000 people though,
Joplin offers a wide variety of shopping, medical care, services and job opportunities typically found in much larger
cities. Yes, the secret's out: the Joplin area is a wonderful place to work and live!
... read more ... ... Joplin - past, present, and future ...
TravelOK - Visit the state's tourism site for lots of
information about our host communities and all points in between! This site is a gold mine with
information you can order for free on line;
from brochures, to a DVD called Oklahoma Rising produced for Oklahoma's Centennial ... and they're all FREE!
About Oklahoma - General information,
geography, history, fun facts, student guide, Oklahoma Symbols, and the State Song are all presented on these
informative pages from TravelOK.
Oklahoma History Center - Oklahoma's new History
Center just across the street from the Capitol in Oklahoma City, houses a vast array of information, displays,
and activities. The web site is a great source of information and you won't be disappointed if you get a chance
to visit the next time you're in the area.
Oklahoma Historical Society
The Oklahoma Historical Society has been collecting, preserving, and sharing the history of Oklahoma and its people
since before statehood. OHS started by collecting newspapers throughout Oklahoma Territory. Now, OHS has grown from a
handful of people with this same desire to collect, preserve, and share the history of the area now known as Oklahoma
to several departments, museums, and historical sites from across the state and the Southwest.
Oklahoma Historical Society's Encyclopedia of History and Culture
Oklahoma became the 46th state in 1907. To commemorate the Centennial of Statehood in 2007, the Oklahoma Historical Society, with funding from the National
Endowment for the Humanities, developed the Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History & Culture to inform and educate citizens, students, historians, and the world at
large about the fascinating history of this most unusual state. The Encyclopedia contains articles written by leading scholars in the field and is published
by the Oklahoma Historical Society. The online edition is presented by the Oklahoma State University Library Electronic Publishing Center.
Each year FreeWheel participants are offered a colorful jersey and t-shirt for purchase. And the 32nd ride
will be no different! Designs for this year's Jersey and Tee are being completed and will be posted here as
soon as they're complete. And note that this year's Tee will still be our standard cotton, but a number of technical fabric
tees will be available at Rider Services for purchase during the week. We want to see what our ridership thinks of the
more hot-weather friendly technical fabrics. So check'em out during the week.
the past!
Jersey
Pre-ordered Jerseys should be available for pick up at the Mapco Plaza Building when walk-in registration begins
in late May or may be picked up when you arrive at the start of the ride in June. For those who don't order ahead,
a limited number of jerseys will be available for sale on the ride. To assure that you get one in the size you prefer,
you should order now.
Sizing - We're using the same jersey manufacturer this year as last and indications were that the jerseys ran
true to size, so the recommendation is that you order the same size jersey as you would a regular T-shirt.
Note that jerseys are NOT included in your registration fee.
The 2010 Jersey design is another creation of Tulsa Bicycle Club's Derek Swift and it's a beauty! Take a look!
(click on the graphics to have them displayed in a larger format)
Front of Jersey ...
Back of Jersey ...
Tee
The 2010 T-shirt design is completed, but color selection for design and shirts is still being decided. Once that's
all in place, we'll post the design here for all to see.
When was the last time you looked at your bicycle? Sure it's been cold outside, but that's no
excuse. It's time to saddle up and begin training for spring and summer riding, including that
week-long adventure known as FreeWheel!
Training Rides in Tulsa and Oklahoma City
If you live near Tulsa or Oklahoma City, then you have an opportunity to participate in a full range of training rides, starting at
5 miles and gradually increasing to 50 and more miles. See the calendars for these rides on the
Tulsa Bicycle Club and the
Oklahoma Bicycle Society
web sites. There will be FreeWheel veterans onhand to assist you with any problems or questions that may arise.
Expectations
You'll need to be able to ride 50-70 miles a day for seven days in a row. Don't panic!
Yes, it sounds like a lot if you haven't done it before. But every year, men, women, and children of all ages,
shapes, sizes, and fitness levels make it into camp each night and on to the finish line at week's end.
You can do it if you prepare.
There is full support on the ride, which means that injured or ill cyclists and
those with mechanical problems that can't be resolved on the road can signal one of many volunteer "SAG" vehicles
to get a ride. However, we expect all participants to be sufficiently prepared to complete each full day on
their bicycle baring injury, illness, or mechanical difficulty. You me be asked to leave the ride or make
your own arrangements for transportation between host communities if you find yourself unable to ride the full
distance on a recurring basis. So, get on your bike and train. For training opportunities and suggestions,
see the sections below.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
So, it's been a while since you were on a bike ... heck, maybe it's been a while since you've been off the
couch for any length of time? Before you begin any exercise or training program, you should assess your present
physical state. A tool to help you is the "Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire" or PARQ.
This questionnaire, used widely by exercise professionals, will help you assess your fitness level and
encourage you to visit with your physician before entering into an exercise program if you identify certain
risk factors, including not having exercised regularly in a long while. Be honest in your assessment of yourself
and err on the side of caution. Refer to the previous paragraph on "Expectations." You owe it to yourself to
adequately prepare and not put yourself at risk when preparing for FreeWheel's week-long effort.
You can download
a copy of the PARQ at the
American Heart Association's web site. Take a minute and check it out now!
Need training help or advice?
Local Bike Clubs - Check your local bicycle club's calendar for rides and join them for fun,
fitness, social interaction, and for training.
Group Rides - For group rides around the state, check the ride calendars on the
Oklahoma Bicycle Society's and the
Tulsa Wheelmen's
web sites. And check the
Tulsa Bicycle Club's web site for a complete set of training rides that begin in March
with two rides each weekend until the end of May, gradually increasing mileage each weekend.
Don't know of a bike club near you? Check our growing list of state and
area bike clubs and let us know if you're aware of others
we've not listed (please include contact information). And if you don't have a club nearby, get out on your own
or find a few like-minded neighbors and get on your bike!
Training guides - There are many training "plans" and suggestions available in print and on the internet. Following
are a few internet resources we think are good, but there are a host of others. Take a few minutes to search the internet
for training plans that will fit your fitness level, lifestyle, time available, etc.
Tour de Cure Cyclist Guide - This is a great resource from the
American Diabetes Association,
with lots of info. Preparation and training info on pages 5-7 will be helpful for any event you're thinking about
riding, whether that's FreeWheel or some other one-day or multi-day event.
Ride the Rockies Training -
Though the altitude recommendations at this site don't apply to much to us here on the plains, the rest of the
information is very good and is applicable to training for any extended bicycling adventure.
Boulder Performance Network - This site is referenced by the
Ride The Rockies web site and has
downloadable spreadsheets with training plans for different rides and the time someone has available to train.
You can take these guides and adapt them easily to your own training goals and lifestyle.
Optimize Endurance Services - This site is also referenced by the
Ride The Rockies web site and has
downloadable training plans for different rides and the time someone has available to train.
You can adapt them easily to your own training goals. No, Oklahoma is not the Rockies, but Oklahoma is NOT flat, and
don't let anyone tell you otherwise. These training plans will work just as well for you as for those headed to altitude!
Strada -
Cycle Oregon references this web site that has training programs
that folks can purchase for $15 and download on line. The programs are similar to those from the Boulder Performance Network.
So, what do we eat on FreeWheel? A little bit of everything and whatever you'd like. The cost of meals is not
included in your registration fee, with the exception of dinner on Friday night, which is included as part
of the End-of-Trail celebration. But reasonably priced meals are provided for breakfast and dinner in all of the
host communities. And we generally arrange for a community along the route to provide lunch unless there's a wide
selection of eateries a bit beyond the mid-point of a day's ride.
Breakfast - Each host community is asked to provide a breakfast of some sort starting at 5:00am. This could
be anything from pancakes, to biscuits and gravy, to oatmeal and fruit, to all of the above. Cost for breakfast
generally runs $4.00 to $6.00.
Lunch - We generally arrange for a community along our route to provide a lunch meal. We try to pick a spot
a little beyond half-way for the day, around 40 miles or so. Lunch prices are generally in the $5.00 to $7.00
range. Note that we may not pre-arrange a lunch stop if there are a number of dining choices available along a particular
day's route at the 40-mile mark or so.
Evening meal - The host community will have an evening meal for riders that will be in the $6.00 to $8.00
range. Or you're welcome to partake of the local cafes and restaurants if you'd like.
Meals provided by communities along the way are most often prepared by some civic, school, or church
group as a fund raiser. There are also, in most communities, local cafes and restaurants that welcome
FreeWheel riders whole-heartedly.
One thing is absolutely certain; you will NOT go hungry. And don't plan to lose weight on FreeWheel. It
Just ain't gonna happen!
Oklahoma FreeWheel is PRIMARILY A CAMPING TOUR. The majority of riders bring their own shelter and
become a part of each night's "tent city," generally located on park or school grounds near shower,
toilet, and other facilities. FreeWheel will be providing a shower truck again in 2010, which
will be located near campers offering hot showers at the end of each day. Additionally, FreeWheel provides clean
and convenient port-a-johns to supplement facilities available in the host communities. Each host community is
instructed to have emergency facilities available and plans prepared to evacuate campers to a safe haven should
foul weather threaten. Riders should be sure to check at the host city's information area to determine where
this shelter area is in each camp.
Indoor Camping
Though host communities are requested to provide indoor camping opportunities as well, indoor facilities are generally
limited. These facilities are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
NOTE: There WILL BE A CHARGE for indoor camping in host communities this year.
Some communities get local churches and other organizations to host indoor campers as well, generally for a small fee.
The bottom line is that indoor facilities are not guaranteed to all who might want them. You should plan accordingly.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR INDOOR CAMPERS: Indoor campers are NOT
allowed to wear bicycle cleated shoes in the indoor facilities, nor are riders allowed to take their bicycles into the
indoor camping facilities. We ask all FreeWheel riders to treat the facilities offered in each community as you would your
own home by removing cleated shoes or sandals, leaving your bicycle outside, and leaving the facilities clean when you depart.
You should come prepared with a lock to secure your bike outside any indoor sleeping facilities.
Motel/Hotel
Limited motel/hotel accommodations may be available in some of the towns that host FreeWheelers.
You will have to contact the local Chambers of Commerce for information on availability and location of such
facilities and make your own arrangements. If you elect and are able to find motel accommodations, you
are also responsible for getting your luggage to and from your motel. Bags must be on the luggage
truck by 8am each morning. Plan accordingly.
Shuttle Guy - Tent Services and more
The Shuttle Guy offers a variety of services and can provide, for a fee, tents and more for those who prefer to get into
camp with their tent already set up, a relaxing chair available in the shade, their luggage in the tent, cool refreshment
at the end of your day's ride, etc. See the section on Special Services below for more information.
Seven days on the road ... what do I need to take? Ah, now there's a question that has as many answers
as there are people to ask. Everyone has their own "needs" and "philosophy" regarding what to bring and
what to leave behind. You'll have to develop a list and get a container that's right for you. But here are
some guidelines and requirements that will help you put your "kit" together.
Here are the "requirements/restrictions" you have to work with:
No more than 2 bags per registered rider of 35 pounds or less each
You have to load your own bag(s) on the luggage truck
Do not pack in trash bags, plastic bins, or external-frame backpacks, and don't bring a luggage cart/buggy
Items may not be "tied" on the outside of your luggage
Leave hazardous or flammable materials at home
Avoid fragile or breakable items or pack them well
How much? Most folks manage the week with an amount of gear that would fit in a standard army duffle
bag; that's roughly 20" x 36"; a little over 10,000 cubic inches. Some people bring more, many bring less.
Remember that you have to be able to lift your bag and carry it to and from the luggage truck each morning
and evening. And when you load it in the morning, you need to be able to get it over your head and toss it
up on top of the luggage that may already be loaded. 35 pounds is probably a good rule of thumb as a weight
limit per bag.
What should I pack? Check Nickie's packing list in the FAQ section of
the web site for an exhaustive list of potential items to bring. Remember, we won't be traveling through wilderness. There
will be stores in the communities we pass through where you can purchase most items you might
need other than cycling or camping-specific items. So you don't need to bring "everything." Some folks
get by with a single change of clothes and sleeping gear, washing their riding gear each night for use the
next day. Others bring fresh riding clothes for each day and camp clothes, camp chairs, queen-size inflatable mattresses
and more (just remember you have to carry all of this and load it in the truck!). You'll develop a list that's
right for you. As a rule, riders are more likely to pack more than they need rather than less than they need for the week.
So "when in doubt, leave it out!"
How should I pack? It's best to pack everything in plastic bags, even if your duffle is waterproof.
Bags are unloaded each day and, depending on the weather, may be rained on or may be unloaded in a damp area.
Lining your duffle with a trash bag, or a heavier trash compacter bag, provides added protection. Zip-lock
bags in all sizes were surely developed with the event cyclist in mind. Bring along a few extra bags to replace
those that may be damaged during the week. Though a standard army duffle will generally hold all of the clothing
and camping gear a single rider will need for the week, many riders elect to have two bags; one with their camping
gear and another with their clothing and other items. Regardless of the bag or bags you elect to bring along, it's best
to make them easy to identify by selecting brightly colored duffels or painting a unique design on your bags. It can
be difficult to find a single olive-drab duffle in a sea of 1,000 or more bags!
DISCLAIMER: You knew this was coming? FreeWheel Inc. nor any of the volunteers are responsible
in any way for items lost, stolen, broken, or otherwise damaged. Bags are "piled" in the truck and are tossed
out of the truck at each campsite ... select duffels and pack with this in mind!
The final night of FreeWheel will be celebrated with a great meal and equally great entertainment. And it's all included in
your registration fee; there's no extra charge for these week's end events!
This year you'll be treated to world-class Bluegrass from the Byron Berline Band.
Byron is widely considered one of the world's preeminent fiddle players and is also one of the most significant figures in contemporary
bluegrass music. We guarantee that you're going to be tapping your toes, if not jumping out of your seat, to some all-American music.
And to make it even more special, the concert is planned for the beautifully restored Coleman Theater in Miami!
This promises to be one of our best End of Trail celebrations ever!!!
Staying in touch with home can be difficult while on an event ride like FreeWheel; but it's not impossible.
We suggest that you arrange with your family or friends to contact them at pre-arranged times during the
week to keep them posted on your progress, get updates from home, and deal with any other issues that may come up
while you're on the road.
In the event your family should need to reach you while on FreeWheel due to some emergency situation, they
can contact one of the numbers of local law enforcement agencies near our route (if possible, leave your family a
copy of your route maps so they can follow your progress each day).
There will be a message board at the FreeWheel information canopy each day that riders may wish to check
periodically for non-emergency messages from friends, family, or other riders.
Special services are available on FreeWheel that provide you the opportunity, for additional cost, to
enjoy rental tent services, chair rental, towel services, and perhaps even a massage.
Tym Allison and crew will be back at FreeWheel again for the fifth year in 2009, offering excellent tenting
services for those not inclined to want to carry or set up their own. Check the
Shuttle Guy web site for
a full description of the various service levels you can arrange, and rest assured that those who've
taken advantage of these services in the past have only glowing remarks about their "country
club" experience!
Massage Services
Another perennial service in the FreeWheel campsite each night is massage. Few experiences compare to
a relaxing massage at the end of a long, perhaps hot(?) day on Oklahoma back roads. For a nominal fee you
can have your attitude and your muscles adjusted in preparation for a sound night's sleep and a good start
the next morning. The massage therapists set up shop in the campsite each day shortly after noon and
schedule appointments well into the evening hours. You may want to arrange a standing appointment for each
night of the week ... you deserve it!
Speedwheel will be held on Wednesday night, June 16th, in beautiful downtown Tahlequah!
SpeedWheel is a cycle racing event that became a part of FreeWheel almost 20 years ago,
and has been a favorite of FreeWheelers ever since. It's fast-paced and very exciting.
SpeedWheel is a "criterium" race. A criterium is a circuit race held on a short course entirely closed to
traffic. The length of the course can range from half a mile to three miles or so. The race is very similar to a
NASCAR event, only on bicycles; there's a "pit" area, where riders may change wheels or
make other repairs and adjustments. Riders may only advance in the pack while on the course.
Prime Laps (pronounced "Preem") are a frequent addition to criterium races. These are
single-lap "races within a race." During the criterium, a bell is rung and an
announcement is made to make racers aware that the current lap will be a prime lap. The
winner of this single lap will enjoy a cash or merchandise award separate from any prizes
awarded the criterium winner. Prime Laps add another dimension to the interest and
excitement of short-course cycle racing.
Racers can race in age or ability-graded groups, and some participate in both. Age
groups include Juniors (age 10-18), Seniors (age 19-29), and Masters (age 30-80+).
Masters are often further divided into 5- or 10-year age groups. Ability-graded groups
range from 1 to 5; 1 representing the best racers and 5 representing beginners. Previous
race results play a large part in determining a rider's group placement.
If you'd like more information related to cycle racing in Oklahoma, contact Jack McNeal
(smilinjack2@prodigy.net) and check out the event calendar on the
Tulsa Wheelmen web site.
And if you still haven't gotten enough of bicycle racing, check out the
USA Cycling web site! USA Cycling is the
umbrella organization for USCF (United States Cycling Federation), NORBA (National Off-Road Bicycle
Association), USPRO (United States Professional Racing Association), and NCCA (National Collegiate Cycling
Association). That's a whole lot of cycling!
Though the seminar series has concluded for 2010, don't hesitate to ask questions on the forum, facebook, or contact us directly via
email. We're still working on putting videos of the remaining seminars together and will post them here as soon as they're complete.
Thanks to Tom Brown and all the presenters for another year of excellent information sharing ...
Seminars will be held again this year in Tulsa to prepare those new to FreeWheel and to refresh
the memories of previous participants. The seminars are being planned and facilitated by Tom Brown,
cycling enthusiast and owner of Tulsa's Tom's Bicycles.
Where and When? - Seminars will once again be held at the OSU Center for Health Sciences at 1111 W. 17th in Tulsa.
This is just off I-244 at 17th and Southwest Boulevard (map and directions). Seminars will begin
at 7pm and be completed by 9pm.
Schedule - Here's the schedule of dates as they currently stand; topics and updates will be made as the info becomes available:
Tuesday, January 19th - Route announcement and "Get Me Ready"
Tuesday, February 9th - "Get My Bike Ready"
Thursday, February 18th - "Get My Body Ready"
Tuesday, March 9th - "Get My Skills Ready"
Thursday, March 18th - Hey, I think "I'm READY"
Tuesday, January 19th
"Announce The Route Already!" Join us for this first Tulsa seminar and learn the route for FreeWheel 2010. Ellen Proctor, FreeWheel Director, will join seminar
attendees and share the names of the communities that will host 2010's spandex-clad peloton. Learn a little about each of the host
communities and nearby attractions in this fun and informative session.
Get Me Ready! Joy Hancock is Fitness/Volunteer/Communications Coordinator at the Youth and Family Center, a part of Tulsa's First United Methodist
Church. She's also a FreeWheel veteran. Joy will be onhand in this first 2010 seminar to inspire us to do off-the-bike training and exercising
this winter to ensure a great start to our 2010 cycling season and preparations for our June adventure across the state.
So, what qualifies Joy to speak to us about all of this? Glad you asked ... read on ...
Joy manages all aerobics classes and personal training, in addition to teaching indoor cycling. She is the race director for the Wish
Lemons Run 5k,a member of the American Fitness Association of America and a certified Group Exercise instructor and personal trainer.
In her free time , Joy and her husband Tim participate in triathlons, focusing on the Ironman events. Joy's first triathlon was in
Antwerp Belgium in 2005, and this past summer she completed her first Ironman in Louisville, Kentucky. Joy and Tim are currently training
for an Ironman which will take place in Coeur d'Alene Idaho this June. They have also coached local runners and triathletes.
So, how's that? Sounds like Joy will have something for everyone considering her background and experience.
Join other first-time FreeWheelers and a host of veterans in this first of out five "Get Ready" presentations to get you, your
bike, your equipment, and your "head" ready for FreeWheel 2010. Attend all five seminars and you'll be well on your way to
enjoying a "pain free" summer adventure you'll remember for a lifetime!
Seminar One Video (37 minutes) - Another FreeWheel first ... here's the first FreeWheel Seminar on video. Now all our FreeWheel
family members, regardless of where they're located or what their schedule is, can participate in the seminars put together annually by
Tom Brown, of Tom's Bicycles, in Tulsa. Let us know what you think!
Tuesday, February 9th
Get Your Bike Ready! Continuing with our "get ready" theme, Tom reveals bicycle tips and techniquies acquired over his many years riding, fixing,
breaking, re-fixing, etc., all manner of spoke-wheeled vehicles. He'll discuss bike selection and fit, riding techniquest to make
the rolling more enjoyable and efficient, simple maintenance tips to keep your "ride" in tip-top riding condition, and how everything
works (in language you can understand).
So join us for a fun and informative session as we continue preparing you to enjoy your mid-summer adventure crossing Oklahoma
under your own power! As always, there will be plenty of time for questions and comments, whether related to the evening's topic or
not.
Thursday, February 18th
Get Your Body Ready!.
Is your body ready to take on seven days of back-to-back 65+ mile days on your bike? Will you be crawling or sailing?
We think you'll want to learn how to get your body in shape to endure the effort, so your mind can relax and enjoy the ride.
To that end, we'll be joined on February 18th by Dr. Susan Payne, Department Head and Professor of Sport Managment at Rogers
State University. She'll share valuable knowledge related to training your body for and endurance event ... can you say "FreeWheel?"
Dr. Payne has over 20 years experience as a professor of Kinesiology at East Central University in Ada, holds a master's degree
from the University of Wyoming and a Ph.D. from Texas Women's University, both in exercise physiology with a minor in nutrition.
So, she knows what she's talkin' about and is ready to share what she knows. You won't want to miss it.
Still not convinced you should come? While at East Central University, Dr. Payne coached both the men's and women's Cross Country
teams to national championships in 11 out of 13 years on the job. Her research specialities and publications have concentrated on
the effects of exercise on bone density in women and the iron status of distance runners. Personnally, Susan loves to run, cycle,
and enter a variety of endurance events. She is a nine-year veteran of Oklahoma FreeWheel and has two daughters who are athletes
as well; Jennifer, a professional figure skater, and Amy, a muscian and professional ballroom dancer in Nashville, TN. You can't make
up a resume like this!
So mark your calendar now for this fabulous FREE learning opportunity. You (and your body) will be glad you came!
Tuesday, March 9th
Get Your Skills Ready Just in time for the training rides, which begin on Saturday, March 13, FreeWheel veteran and League of American Bicyclists
instructor, Richard Hall, delivers an informative discourse on road riding techniques and etiquette. What to watch for, where to ride
and other issues related to riding in a group and on the open road, whether quiet, back-country lane, moderately busy state
highway, or city street. And you'll see some great photos of FreeWheel to boot.
In addition to Richard's LAB credentials and FreeWheel experience, he's past president of the Oklahoma Bicycling Coalition and the
Tulsa Bicycle Club, is a board member of the Tulsa Hub, and frequently commutes to and from his home in east Tulsa to the new
City Hall in downtown Tulsa.
Thursday, March 18th
Hey, I thiink I'm Ready?! The final "Get Ready" presentation included in this year's FreeWheel seminar series will present "A day in your life on FreeWheel"
to give you some idea of just what a typical day on the road might look like. Mike Schooling, FreeWheel board member and webmaster, will
share his perspective in an entertaining and sometimes comical presentation.
And after we drag Mike "off stage" and wrench the microphone from his hand, there will be plenty of time for all the questions you
might still have banging around in your head. From here on out it's you and the bike and the open road! We think you're ready to ride!!!
Get a flavor for FreeWheel. Watch the short video below by 2009 FreeWheeler Tom Herrmann (Thanks Tom!!!). It will give you and very
brief glimpse of what you might encounter as you travel across Oklahoma on a bicycle.
Ready to Go?
This page will fill over the course of the months preceding FreeWheel 2010 to provide you with the information
you need to prepare for and participate in this great Oklahoma ride.
Planning began in late June of 2009 and is ongoing. This will be FreeWheel's 32nd year! Whether this will be your
first FreeWheel or just another notch in your saddle, we're looking forward to having you join us. As are the friendly
folks in small towns across Oklahoma who are anxious to showcase their communities and make you feel like a member of the family.
Read on and check back often for details. If you don't find answers to all your questions, browse other
sections of the FreeWheel web site,
post a message on our forum, or contact us via email or phone!
Photos from several 2010 participants
Springfield Cyclist weblog
Moni Neville photos at PhotoBucket.com
More from Moni at CrazyGuyOnABike
Jennifer Wurl at CrazyGuyOnABike
Nathan Lorenz at flickr
Donna Meier, professional photograher from Pryor
Still A Great Value - Full week adult registration will be $125 this year, still
a great value for seven days of fully supported bicycle riding. See the 
NO MORE than 2 bags of 35 pounds or less each (Not new, but still
a work in progress!)
Along with the SUV craze of the past 10 years, FreeWheelers bags seem to have trended toward "super" size. We will continue our efforts to "return
to reason" in 2010 asking each FreeWheel rider to bring no more than two bags of no more than thirty-five pounds each. Bags larger than a
standard Army duffle bag are simply too big to handle effectively and safely. So, be considerate of yourself and others
and pack two smaller bags rather than one you could put a charcoal grill in. Your back will thank you, as will the helpful
volunteers in each host community who unload the luggage truck each day. Please don't make us turn you away at the luggage truck steps
or have you tossing out extra gear like someone having to discard sharp objects and liquid shampoo at the security line at the airport.
We'll all be the better for our combined efforts at downsizing.
So, what do we eat on FreeWheel? A little bit of everything and whatever you'd like. The cost of meals is not
included in your registration fee, with the exception of dinner on Friday night, which is included as part
of the End-of-Trail celebration. But reasonably priced meals are provided for breakfast and dinner in all of the
host communities. And we generally arrange for a community along the route to provide lunch unless there's a wide
selection of eateries a bit beyond the mid-point of a day's ride.
Evening meal - The host community will have an evening meal for riders that will be in the $6.00 to $8.00
range. Or you're welcome to partake of the local cafes and restaurants if you'd like.
Oklahoma FreeWheel is PRIMARILY A CAMPING TOUR. The majority of riders bring their own shelter and
become a part of each night's "tent city," generally located on park or school grounds near shower,
toilet, and other facilities. FreeWheel will be providing a shower truck again in 2010, which
will be located near campers offering hot showers at the end of each day. Additionally, FreeWheel provides clean
and convenient port-a-johns to supplement facilities available in the host communities. Each host community is
instructed to have emergency facilities available and plans prepared to evacuate campers to a safe haven should
foul weather threaten. Riders should be sure to check at the host city's information area to determine where
this shelter area is in each camp.
Seven days on the road ... what do I need to take? Ah, now there's a question that has as many answers
as there are people to ask. Everyone has their own "needs" and "philosophy" regarding what to bring and
what to leave behind. You'll have to develop a list and get a container that's right for you. But here are
some guidelines and requirements that will help you put your "kit" together.
Tym Allison and crew will be back at FreeWheel again for the fifth year in 2009, offering excellent tenting
services for those not inclined to want to carry or set up their own. Check the
Another perennial service in the FreeWheel campsite each night is massage. Few experiences compare to
a relaxing massage at the end of a long, perhaps hot(?) day on Oklahoma back roads. For a nominal fee you
can have your attitude and your muscles adjusted in preparation for a sound night's sleep and a good start
the next morning. The massage therapists set up shop in the campsite each day shortly after noon and
schedule appointments well into the evening hours. You may want to arrange a standing appointment for each
night of the week ... you deserve it!
Speedwheel will be held on Wednesday night, June 16th, in beautiful downtown Tahlequah!
