It’s been a weekend of extreme contrasts. While the pro peloton was busy fighting for seconds on sun-drenched mountain tops in Spain and the Middle East, our very own community was busy conquering an absolute monster of an endurance test indoors.

Here is the news that matters to the Muckers community this week.

1. RaTim Did It: The 500km Survivor

We have to start with the biggest news of the weekend. Yesterday, Tomáš Hloušek (RaTim) clipped in for his “50@500” Challenge, and what an unbelievable day it was.

Taking on 502km, over 10,000 meters of climbing, and 21 back-to-back races on Rouvy is a feat that defies logic. It was an incredible celebration of his 50th birthday and hitting Level 100, but more importantly, it was a showcase of the Muckers community spirit. To everyone who hopped in to offer a draft on the “Tribute Routes,” chat in the Discord, or simply suffer alongside him for a stage or two—you are what makes this group great. Tomáš, go put your feet up. You’ve earned a rest until at least next winter.

2. Pidcock’s Perfect Timing

Over in Spain, the Vuelta a Andalucia wrapped up today, and British fans have plenty to smile about. Tom Pidcock waited until the very last stage to show his hand, launching a blistering uphill attack to take the stage victory.

For the Muckers who love punchy, short climbs (we see you, Tuesday Night Hill Climbers), Pidcock’s acceleration was a masterclass in timing and sheer power. With the Spring Classics just days away, he is looking incredibly dangerous.

3. The “Never Say Die” Attack of the Week

If you want to talk about raw, unfiltered “Mucker” energy, look no further than Remco Evenepoel at today’s final stage of the UAE Tour.

Isaac del Toro had the overall lead secured, and today was supposed to be a straightforward, flat procession for the sprinters (which Jonathan Milan eventually won for his third victory of the week). But Remco had other ideas. Refusing to go quietly, Evenepoel launched an audacious, aggressive breakaway from kilometre zero. It didn’t stick, but you have to respect a rider who refuses to just sit in the wheels. Sometimes, you just have to send it and see what happens.

4. Brace Yourselves: The Cobbles Return

Enjoy the smooth tarmac while you can, because next weekend the real season begins. Saturday, February 28th is Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.

The peloton is heading to Belgium to smash themselves over the Muur van Geraardsbergen and the Haaghoek cobbles. It’s the unofficial start of the proper racing year, and the perfect excuse to spend your Saturday afternoon glued to the screen.

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Mucker’s Takeaway: Whether you are attacking steep Spanish gradients, launching doomed breakaways in the desert, or just trying to regain feeling in your legs after a 500km Rouvy marathon—keep that grit alive.

See you on the start line this Tuesday!