On May 18th at 4:30 PM, we will hold our team picnic, generously hosted by Jim and Jill Crissman (Oakhaven Drive, Midland). At the picnic we’ll distribute our  team jerseys to those that haven't yet got theirs. In previous years we’ve had some team rides immediately before the picnic, and will likely do so again. There will be a couple different ride options, to allow for different speeds and distances. Detail about the rides and picnic will be in our newsletters, along with directions to the Crissman’s.

Team Jerseys

This year each team member can purchase a newly-designed team jersey. The Dow/TCC team is getting a reputation in the State of Michigan for very noticeable jerseys and this year’s design will not disappoint!
Consider the team Jersey your post-ride team uniform.
We also encourage you to wear your Jersey around town in the weeks before the MS150. It’s sure to get people’s attention, generate interest in the MS150, in the Dow/TCC Team, and just might help your fundraising efforts. You might consider wearing it to work one day, when you're asking your colleagues for pledges.

Pre-Ride Dinners

The evening before the Grand Rapids ride, the team will meet for dinner in Grand Rapids. So take off work a little early, drive to Grand Rapids, and check into your hotel room.  We’ll be handing out jerseys to anyone who hasn’t already received theirs.

Team Hospitality Tent

When you finish the first day of a ride, come to our team’s hospitality tent. We’ll set it up at the finish, near where you pick up your SAGged luggage. It’s a place for the team to congregate, enjoy a cold drink, and talk about the day’s ride. The tent will be easy to spot – look for the Dow Automotive banner, and all your freshly showered team members in their team T-shirts.

Rider Packets

Every team member gets a rider packet with all the information you need to get ready for the ride, and have fun:  fundraising, team business cards, team events, sponsor "brag" flags for the office, jersey sizing options and distribution, buddies for new riders, and lots more.

Buddies for New Riders

We know cycling 150 miles can be a bit intimidating especially for folks who have not done much endurance oriented exercise or events. Buddies are experienced MS150 riders who provide first time rides with support and encouragement to help make the ride and overall experience as enjoyable as possible, …and hence keen to do it again in future years. If you want a buddy, please contact Jay Dunnick - he'll be happy to match you up with an enthusiastic team buddy (989) 636-0019.

Buddies offer advice and encouragement regarding

b Training:  TCC training rides, other suggested routes, how much/how often, developing and implementing a realistic training plan
- Bike set up / optimization
- Equipment
- Pre & post ride practices e.g. stretching
- Meet in person with rider at least once e.g. Take a ride together.

b Advice for the ride itself:
- What to take
- What to expect
- Pacing, use of rest stops, finding the right group to ride with…
- Offer to meet with rider at start of the first day

b Safety & Etiquette:
- Riding in group / pace lines, hand signaling
- Bike and equipment maintenance