2016 Unbound Gravel 200 -- Rider One: Brian 'Beardo' Hanson

Please note: This blog post has been updated to reflect this event’s current name.

This year Salsa is sending the 13.5 riders to participate in 2016's Unbound Gravel 200. Brian "Beardo" Hanson is rider No. 1.

Salsa Cycles: What is your goal at this year’s Unbound Gravel 200?

Brian "Beardo" Hanson: Finish the same day I start. Finishing before midnight. I don’t want to roll into town at 2 a.m. again.

SC: What is your biggest fear going into the event?

BH: Not meeting my goal and heat. I finished last year, but it was abnormally cool. I don’t deal with heat very well. If this year proves to be a lot warmer, I’ll be more nervous at the start.

SC: What have you done to prepare and how are you combating that fear?

BH: Riding more. Even if it’s just a quick 20-mile spin, I’m trying to take advantage of every bit of open time I have to ride. I’m also bringing too much water with me. I don’t want to dry out in the sun like a raisin.

SC: What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Unbound Gravel event?

BH: Drier conditions (fingers crossed) and getting back out in the Flint Hills. I miss those views. I’m also excited to get out there knowing I can finish this time.

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Read more from the Unbound Gravel 13.5:

Rider Two: Tim Ek

RidersThree and Four: Scott and Laura Haraldson

Rider Five: Matt Acker