The "Near Earth" Award

After careful reading of all the various accounts of Saturday's activities, the High Council of the Duluth Road Cyclists has unanimously agreed to present the Near Earth award to Rich Hendricks.

How the h*ll did my face get so close to the ground?

The Near Earth award recognizes those few, special individuals who have a close encounter of the mother earth kind, whether through careful planning or serendipity, and have the wherewithal to get back up and soldier on.

Previous recipients over the course of this cycling season include:
Hatch and H-J (on the Split Rock Century)
Single Speed Man (during the Chequamagon Fat Tire 40)

Nice recovery mate!