Register NOW! The next 24 riders to register with code GYGO_20-24 receive 20% off on the Long and Medium course with EXTRA merch!
Meet Mike Miller, a guy deeply woven into the fabric of the cycling world since way back in 1969. But let's rewind a bit. Mike's love affair with bikes began at 13 years old in Fargo, North Dakota. He was feeling that itch for adventure, wanting to explore the vast farmlands of the Red River Valley of North Dakota and Minnesota, and a bicycle was just the ticket.
Fast forward to his college years at the University of Denver in the '70s and '80s, where Colorado, particularly Boulder, and Denver, became the hotspot for professional bicycle racing. Mike was drawn into the scene even deeper after experiencing the thrill of events like the Red Zinger Classic and the Coors International Classic.
In 1996, Mike brought his passion for cycling to life by opening the HandleBar & Grill, a cycling-themed joint in Denver's Washington Park area. It became a neighborhood staple until 2007. During this time, he rubbed shoulders with big names in the cycling world like Michael Aisner and Len Pettyjohn, who inspired him to start organizing his own races and community events.
From 2000 to 2004, Mike ran two mountain biking race series in the Rocky Mountain Region, showcasing his dedication to the sport. Fast forward again to 2021 when Mike decided to shake things up by moving to Tucson, Arizona, after selling his Basil Doc's Pizza venture.
In 2023, Mike rediscovered his love for gravel biking during the Belgian Waffle Ride in Cave Creek, AZ. It was a game-changer, reigniting his passion for the sport. And so, the Apacheria Gravel event was born!
Now, Mike's on a mission to bring the thrill of gravel biking to Cochise County in Southeast Arizona. The inaugural Apacheria Gravel event will be held on November 16, 2024, along the historic Geronimo Trail. The whole region is buzzing with excitement for the GRAVEL concept—Apacherias Gravel.
So, saddle up and join the adventure! Head over to www.ApacheriaGravel.com for all the juicy event details. Let's hit the gravel and ride on – "Let'er Eat!"
I've had a camera in my hand since I was 8. I can't remember a time when I wasn't shooting photos or video of SOMETHING! And I can't imagine doing anything else. With a bachelor's degree in Media Production, over 20 years experience in photography, over 15 years experience in video, and the license and insurance to fly drones commercially, I love tackling projects that challenge my creative ability!
To support my creative mind, I have a deep appreciation for coffee! Fresh roasted, single origin, delightful coffee. It's not an addiction...I could quit any time. But why...?
I am a family guy. My beautiful wife and adorable kids are a huge reason for me running this business. The 9-5 office just doesn't cut it for us. I want to be with them while they grow and teach them along the way. And for me, that looks like creating amazing content for you while I'm able to share my time with my family.
Jesus Christ is my Savior, and I do all things for His glory. That means that whatever work I do for you, I'm doing it to please Him. I'll do it to the very best of my ability!
Dean Crandall is a pioneer in officiating at mountain bike (MTB) races (of all levels) and assisted in developing the rules & regulations for the USCF/USA Cycling federation (USA Cycling), NORBA (National Off Road Bicycle Association (MTB racing division of USA Cycling), the world MTB Championships & the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationiale).
Dean served as a member of the USCF Board of Directors (BOD) and was the first elected chairperson of the NORBA Board of Trustees. Crandall served for six (6) years on the UCI MTB Commission where he helped develop MTB stage race rules and regulations for the UCI.
Dean has officiated at nearly every major MTB race in the USA and at many key international events, having been involved as a Commissaire or a Technical Delegate at the first six (6) World MTB Championships. As both a MTB & Road official, Dean has assisted with rules, scheduling & the training of other officials in the USA and internationally. He strives to be fair while maintaining his sense of humor - honoring and respecting the participants 'grievances.'.
Dean helped transition NORBA from an independent (loosely administered) organization to a successful division of USA Cycling. Crandall developed the first training programs for MTB officials, in the USA and internationally. In 1990, Dean passed the first ever UCI MTB Commissaires exam to become one of the first "A" Level officials.
The Inaugural Apacheria Gravel (EVENT – www.BorderLandsGravel.com ) is proud to announce the addition of Mike Hecker to the EVENT production team.
Mike has his home base in Santa Barbara, CA – traveling the country to events that are well promoted and produced.
Bringing his voice & passion to announcing the various disciplines of competitive bike events.
Mike was recruited by his long time associate, colleague and friend – Den Crandall. Mike & Dean have a long history that dates back to the early years of NORBA (USA Cycling MTB sanctioning body). Dean was the original President of NORBA and Mike Hecker was an elite cyclist contesting numerous USA Cycling sanctioned events on the road, MTB, cyclocross & even the velodrome.
The EVENT is fortunate to have Dean Crandall as the Technical Advisor and Mike Hecker as the announcer (Start / Finish area, the Awards Ceremony & interviewing BorderLands community members about their connection to the EVENT).
Mike brings significant years of cycling experience (+40 years): Former Bike Racer; Former Race Director; Former Cycling Coach AND now a well respected EVENT announcer.
2018 launched Mike from promoting cycling events to Race Day announcing and ‘MC-ing’. Specializing in race day play X play, rider intros, interviews & awards ceremonies. Mike has worked with Team Big Bear, the SoCal League, UCI PRO CUP Series, The Sea Otter Classic, USA Cycling Marathon MTB Championships (2024), USA Cycling Masters National Road Race Championships (2024), USA Cycling Gravel National Championship (2024).
Please say HELLO to Mike!
The Inaugural Apacheria Gravel is honored to have Mike Hecker on the TEAM. Mike will be making his first trip to the BorderLands and is ‘all-in’ with the fortunate opportunity of working the EVENT with his longtime friend, associate and colleague – Dean Crandall.
Loyal Ma (Rocky Mountain House, AB, Canada) is joining the Apacheria Gravel (EVENT) Production Team.
Loyal is teaming-up with his long time friend, associate & colleague - Dean Crandall as the EVENT’S Start-Line commissaire and On-Course race official.
Loyal brings with him decades of ‘officiating’ at the International Level (UCI Sanctioned events – A fully credentialed UCI Commissaire and the Chief UCI BMX Commissaire in the Western Hemisphere) as well as a long history of Canadian Cycling Federation sanctioned events (The Chief Canadian Cycling Federation race official).
The EVENT is fortunate & honored to have Loyal teaming up with Dean Crandall to bring a professional level of engagement & oversight to Douglas and the Inaugural EVENT.
Loyal is making his fourth trip to the southern border (from north of the 49th parallel – northern border) and the BorderLands of Southeast Arizona.
Please say HELLO to Loyal Ma.
