Single Track Sunday
Place: Michaux State Forest, Biglerville, PA (Michaux Off Road Weekend Endurance Race)
Ridden: April 2014
When attending a race put on by Zach Adams (Fast Forward Productions) one can expect lots of rocks, gnarly descents, and awesome post-race festivities and awards; the endurance race of the Michaux Off Road Weekend definitely filled all these criteria.
The weather could not have been more beautiful, the sun was shining, there was a light breeze, and the temperature topped off somewhere around 80 degrees. In fact, it was almost too hot (I know, how dare I say that). But when it has been so cold for so long, it takes some time to get adjusted to the heat.
As stated above, Zach puts together some fun but challenging courses. The race started off with a fast, steep, and loose descent. Thank goodness for the dropper seatpost on my Lust Advanced, it was definitely need for this descent and many others. The course then meandered through the forest on some double track that included one very long, grinding climb. Then came another super fun and fast descent on a power line and gravel road. After taking a breather on the gravel road descent, time for another tough climb. This climb was on a loose, rocky, washed out ATV type trail. Now comes the gnarly, fun part of the course. The single track descent. It was rocky, filled with switchbacks, and it was steep. Many racers were walking this section. After crossing the creek at the bottom, came a rocky climb up the powerline. After an unsuccessful attempt the first time through to ride this, I walked it everytime. Joël did some riding up this. After this final tough hike-a-bike climb was more single track filled with lots of babyheads, chattery rocks, roots, and logs. About 6.8 miles per lap.
Joël put in 6 laps, I did 5. We both were happy with our races. We enjoyed the course and had good rides. Both of us feel the heat was a bit of a factor, not being used to the high temperatures took its toll.
As for results Joël was 6th open men and I was 4th open women. Fellow Giant racer Abbey had a rough day, mechanical issues prevented her from finishing. Despite this, Abbey was there cheering us on during the race. Thanks for the support!
Post race food included camp-fire grilled chicken, cole slaw, baked beans, bean salad, watermelon, rolls, chips and pretzels. Judy's homemade ice cream was there also. Part of my prize package was free ice cream, the perfect treat after a hot day on the bike!
-Jess