Kurt's dad again...

Just got a call from Caroline Soong.  She and several other riders (Lance & Lucas, at least) were climbing to Marshall Pass south of Salida and were turned back due to a route closure from an apparent fresh fire somewhere ahead near the pass.  She said they are considering detouring via Monarch Pass using US 50.  But they are worried about being disqualified if they use the detour.  They don't know anything about the size of the fire, or if the route might be reopened soon.  They're trying to check with the local authorities (they have returned to Poncha Springs) for more information on the fire and the closure.

What is the "proper" course of action to take when riders encounter an unexpected route closure like this?  Do they risk being relegated if they go off route without prior approval?  And who should they be contacting for advice and approval? 

---Ron

Just wondering how the fire at Marshall Pass is by now? Is the road open? Norb DeKerchove, JP Evans, Tom Sap and Lee K. are approaching that area now. Just hoping they can get through without a reroute. A quick update re: Norb - after struggling with a very sore Achilles, he seems to have gotten it under control with lots of ice/snow/cold water when he has down time. He was also very grateful for all of the TLC he received at Brush Mtn.! Thanks to all and all of the great support for the riders all along the way!

Karen, Just talked to Norb from the Great Basin and Dan just caught a ride into Rawlins. The were about 70 miles out. Norb said he had a big smile on his face and seemed relieved to be done. Just couldn't get past the stomach issues. Norb enjoyed riding with him and getting to know him. Great having company out there too! Take care and give Dan our best!

Just talking to Norb from the Great Basin. He and Dan have been riding together today, but Dan was still battling a stomach virus or?? At any rate he just accepted a ride into Rawlins and says he's done. Norb is sorry to see him pull out and really enjoyed getting to know him and riding together. Hope Dan feels better soon!

Norb is very interested in locating some Kinesio Tape if anybody can help in Rawlins. Thanks for any assist on locating that.

 Karen Simas - Thanks from Eve, Norb's wife, for the note regarding Dan and Norb riding together and camping last night! It makes me feel better knowing Norb isn't out there by himself and I know he appreciates some company, especially going through the Basin!  Was wondering where Dan's spot is? I also don't see him on the active racers list. Wonder if he got removed accidentally since he is obviously still moving forward?

Norb sent a photo via IPhone from his dinner stop in Atlantic City yesterday. Dan must be the person pictured with Norb.

Regarding Kinesio Tape, Norb has used it in the past while doing Ironman events. It saved his race in Coeur d'Alene, but since then he hasn't had any issues with his knee and never the Achilles until now. It's a great suggestion for him especially as he approaches CO with pushing passes ahead. Question: is there any place in Rawlins where he might be able to snag some tape? He plans to call from there today. Thanks!

Just wanted to do a quick shoutout to my husband - Norb DeKerchove from Boise, Idaho. For anyone tracking him in the Driggs, Victor area of his short pass through the home state, many thanks! He said you all were amazing in your interest and willingness to help him out with anything he might need. Seems several folks had been watching for him down there and greeting the native son with open arms. Wish I could have been there too. He's doing great though and getting near the halfway point slogging through the Great Basin tonight. Still riding 9 minutes ago. We salute you - every night precisely at 8 p.m. with cheers and drinks in your honor, Norb!