1. I can see some riders having been affected by Harvey, but I think riding in the MS150 will offer a nice return to normalcy for them.

2. Already discussed.

3. Energy companies are doing better and the MS150 does rise and fall with them. I think it will be better than last year.

4. I am excited for COTA. It's a much bigger area and will offer a ton of tent space and parking. It's a slightly shorter drive home too I imagine. It's also a much shorter ride on Day Two. After last year's Headwinds From Hell Ride, I'd take that. Austin is still close if people want to stay the night there.

5. Companies got a huge gift from the tax package, I'm sure this won't change those options.

6. I could care less about e-bikes. This is a big charity ride that raises money for a fantastic cause. They can ride on whatever they want. If that means less walkers to avoid on hills or less people to swing around as you make that climb into the Bastrop lunch spot, I am all for it. People on e-bikes are still pedaling and propelling the bike. They are just getting some power help.


With the news came down last year about the finish line change, I was honestly hoping for an out and back. A finish line in the Houston area would have been really nice as more friends and family of the riders could have made it. That three hour drive Sunday evening isn't a whole lot of fun when you could be home getting ready for a return to a normal life on Monday.