Words can’t do justice to the Chunkathalon. I’ve seen some of the Chunk crew here and there throughout the summer, so I had an idea of what to expect. But when I showed up to Freegeek on Sunday, I was totally blown-away. It was an awesome display of kinetic art and energy and one of the most inspired pursuits of bike fun I have ever witnessed.
The crowd was massive and the competitors were out in full regalia with costumes ranging from Mad-Max-meets-Tarzan to nothing but pink panties. Beer cans and limbless dolls littered the street as mutant bike gladiators with names like “Iron Lord” battled for supremacy in events like the Beer Run Time Trial, the 40oz Relay, the Baby Rescue, and of course, the all-important essay contest (with bonus points for limericks).
Thanks to Oso at Freegeek who hosts this “Burning Man on wheels.” He kept his cool, threw a great party, and let me climb up on the roof to take photos. And of course, a big shout out to Chunk for pulling off the event. You guys make me proud to live and ride in Portland! I’m just bummed I left before nightfall, because I’m sure things got even more out of hand once the fires started blazing. Oh well, guess there’s always next year…
For more of the people and bikes from Chunkathalon 2005, check out the rest of my photos.
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