Who are Freedhem riders? We have gone under the helmet of some of our past riders to find out.

Meet Dave Nygaard. Spend any amount of time riding around the Freedhem area and you will likely run across Dave or his wife Rhonda out on the gravel roads. One night while riding with Dave we ran across Rhonda out on a ride of her own.

Dave: After retiring from the Navy and spending time in corporate America, I am now enjoying small town life having moved to Fort Ripley in 2016. I am blessed with a lovely wife, two kids, and four grandchildren. I enjoy watching grandchildren grow, golf, biking, fishing, hunting, and most outside activities. I am scared I will crash and die if I take up mountain biking.

1. What is your fondest bike related memory?

Finishing Dirty Kanza 200 (now Unbound) in 2017 with my son, Nick. Nick was kind enough to slow down and ride with me the entire day. Riding into Emporia with my son after 200 miles in the Flint Hills of Kansas was something I will never forget.

2. How or why did you get started in gravel riding?

For my 50th birthday my wife, Rhonda, bought me a bike and Nick bought me an entry into the 110-mile Heck of the North. I guess they decided I would get into riding gravel. Ten years later I am still at it as are Nick and Rhonda (who also became an avid gravel rider). It has truly become a family affair. I can honestly say it has changed my life.

3. Tell us about your most memorable experience riding the Freedhem 76?

It is really fun to see some of the same people on the course every year, but I think the most memorable moments are hanging around after the ride, listening to music, enjoying some food and a beer (or two), and rehashing the day.

4. What advice would you give to someone considering entering a gravel race for the 1st time?

You win by starting a ride. Nobody cares how you finish. Seriously, nobody. Push aside your fears and just show up. You will be overwhelmed by the support and encouragement you will receive before, during, and after the ride. You will even make some friends.

5. Most important question. What is your favorite ride snack?

Brown Sugar Pop-Tarts

Register now: Freedhem76.com