Sigma Alpha Epsilon - Indiana University

THE INDIANA GRAM W hat a day it was for the ΣAE Gamma Cycling team at the 74th running of the iconic Little 500 on April 26! The event was filled with celebration, fierce competition, and an incredible display of brotherhood and athleticism, cementing yet another memorable chapter in the legacy of Gamma Cycling. This race was our 60th time competing in the annual Indiana University 50-mile race. PRE-RACE FESTIVITIES The day kicked off with the annual ΣAE Little 500 Tailgate. This year, the event was fully catered, and the setup was nothing short of spectacular. With accommodations for 150 guests, the atmosphere buzzed with energy as brothers, alumni, families, and friends gathered under tents to enjoy grilled cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and an array of refreshments, including beer, soda, and water. Music filled the air as longtime supporters and new faces alike came together to celebrate the team and the tradition. Many former riders and coaches joined the crowd, reconnecting and reminiscing about their own Little 500 experiences. As the festivities continued, the current Gamma Cycling team arrived to thank everyone for their unwavering support. With heartfelt appreciation, they made their way to the track, focused and ready to race. A RACE TO REMEMBER ΣAE Gamma entered this year's race with high expectations after qualifying in the second starting position, securing the middle spot on the coveted front row. The race began at a blistering pace, and Gamma's strategy to remain at the front proved wise, helping them avoid early traffic and potential accidents. ΣAE's experience paid off. On lap 81, a crash in Turn 1 allowed ΣAE and fellow frontrunner Black Key Bulls to break away from the rest of the field. The two teams battled fiercely for the lead in a nail-biting contest that kept the crowd on edge for the remainder of the race. While BKB ultimately edged out Gamma for first place, the rivalry was marked by respect and sportsmanship. One of BKB's riders summed it up best in a post-race interview: "There's nobody else on the track that I'd want to see win except ΣAE… they are by far our fiercest competitor." ΣAE Gamma proudly secured second place, with the Cutters rounding out the podium in third. CELEBRATING A STELLAR SEASON While the team may have narrowly missed a first-place finish, their 2024-25 season was nothing short of extraordinary. Congratulations to our riders: Luke Naas '25 Lucas Lemme '26 Rhett Skvarna '26 Matthew Naas '27 Stellan Ruston '27 Thomas Biltimier '28 These athletes delivered an outstanding performance throughout the year, winning both the Fall Cycling Series and the Spring Cycling Series, which is a testament to their talent, commitment, and relentless drive. LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY The team's success would not be possible without the expert guidance and mentorship of Bill Naas '95 (coach) and Travis Verhoff '14 (trainer and mechanic). Their experience and leadership continue to elevate ΣAE Gamma Cycling to new heights. Equally deserving of recognition is the incredible support network provided by the ΣAE Gamma Cycling Alumni Group. Their dedication behind the scenes continues to foster excellence and tradition within the Gamma Cycling program. Brent Burke '77 David "Bear" Barrick '79 Jim "Fish" Fissinger '83 Jeff Naas '97 Ryan McBee '02 Danny Burns '03 Andy Krahulik '16 Joe Krahulik '18 Rob Krahulik '21 Here's to another thrilling Little 500 and the continued success of ΣAE Gamma Cycling! The future looks bright, and the legacy only grows stronger. Mark your calendars for the 75th anniversary of the men's Little 500, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026. LEAVING IT ALL ON THE TRACK ΣAE Gamma Cycling Shines at 74th Little 500 The bike team received an impressive number of awards this spring! From left: Fraternity Race Champion, Team Pursuit 2nd Place, All-Star Rider: Luke Naas '25, 2nd Place Little 500, 1st Place Individual Time Trials (ITT), 1st Place Miss 'n Out Race, All Star Rider: Matthew Naas '27, and Little 500 Spring Cycling Series Champions.

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