April 2018
MGM Double Down part of the Cannonball Ride Series
4/21/2018 -
Join us for the 18th annual Marilyn Gibbs Memorial “MGM” Ride delivering more challenges than ever before while helping put together funds to help kick cancer’s ass here locally. For 2018 we are DoublingDown for the most epic Bad-Ass charity ride of the 2018 calendar; we promise, you have never been on a charity ride quite like this.

The MGM DoubleDown event weekend starts April 21st at 8AM with four course options; Bad-Ass Epic (155 miles), Long & Hard (101 miles), Just Warming Up (52 miles), and Short & Sweet (25 miles).

Bad-Ass Epic and Long & Hard will take you on some of the most beautiful and challenging roads in western Illinois. While not dedicated gravel-grinders, these two routes will challenge your rough-riding skills on surfaces that have been known to stray far from smooth tarmac.

Just Warming Up rolls out the same direction as the longer routes, but peels towards Bunker Hill. From there, the adventure doubles back to the Outpost, joining up with the same route as the longer courses. Don't forget your rugged tires and sense of adventure, as we blend road and trail: whiners not welcome.

The Short & Sweet route is for those who just want to have a little fun and support a rad cause. This route will be primarily on the paved MCT trails providing smooth and predictable riding with little-to-no vehicle traffic.

On Day Two, Sunday, April 22, it’s time to DoubleDown! All four courses will once again be offered but this time in reverse. Join us for our second day of riding as your favorite downhills become your toughest climbs and your legs once again, feel the burn.

Whether you want to take on the massive challenge of the DoubleDown intense routes or simply go for a relaxing one-time cruise, the choice is yours. Both days of riding include professionally routed and marked courses, convenient rest areas, sag support, food and drink each day, and a super sweet prize that lines up with your DoubleDown* adventure of choice. Completing the Bad-Ass Epic earns you a limited edition DoubleDown cowboy size belt buckle. DoubleDown on all other routes and you will receive an event completion prize on top of helping raise a considerable amount for a local charity to help kick cancer's ASS!

DoubleDown Sign Up:

Bad-Ass $100 - Weekend registration: DoubleDown and complete both 155 mile days and you will get a pro wrestler size belt buckle to show off your bad ass-ness to your friends.

All other routes $50 - Weekend registration: DoubleDown prizing guaranteed if you complete both days.

Over half of all registration dollars are going to help a local cancer fighter put up a great fight. Help us out and register early so we can plan for the right size crowd and deliver the best event possible. The MGM Double Down goes rain or shine; as long time riders of the MGM ride know, so you don’t have worry about the date moving due to weather.

Registration opens Feb 4

After March18 up to Day of- Late Sign Up Add a $35 Late Sign Up

Fee for all levels: DoubleDown awards not guaranteed, prize substitution potential gets higher the later you register.

* Single Day Registration is up to you, pay what you think is an APPROPRIATE donation to support an awesome cause!

** Single day registrations do not receive anything other than ride support.

Come join us for The MGM DoubleDown weekend where we’ll ride some awesome miles in memory of a very courageous local cancer fighter, Marilyn Gibbs, who lost her battle with the big C 19 years ago on 4/20/99. Remember, your weekend total will be twice the distance of the route you choose, so ponder hard, prepare wisely, and ride like you’re life depends on it. All rides will start and finish at the Bike Surgeon Outpost located at 2341 Plum St. Edwardsville, IL.

Ride Day check in will begin at 7am Each route will be given a different colored wrist band to help decipher who is who, please use this! Left arm preferred.

Ride Departure Schedule **All routes start at 8am except the short. Short & Sweet departs at 8:10am Departure times are the same Saturday and Sunday.

Challenge yourself, just like cancer has challenged the lives of so many around us; we hope to see you there.

Thank you,

Andy Gibbs