24 Hours in the Canyon; Earning the OVERALL solo 24 hour mountain bike win

24 Hours in the Canyon

May 31 – June 1, 2025

Palo Duro Canyon, near Amarillo, Texas

The only simultaneous ROAD and MOUNTAIN 24 hour race….

Joël raced the ROAD event and Jessica the MOUNTAIN

Jessica 1st overall ALL- male and female- riders solo mountain

Joël 3rd overall male, 1st age group solo road

This event was as much about the race as it was the journey.  The Nankmans arrived in Palo Duro Canyon State Park Friday afternoon, the day before the race, after having departed eastern Pennsylvania Monday morning.  

Knowing we came all the way from Pennsylvania, you may be asking what brought us to this particular event?  A combination of many things.  The location- what a beautiful and unique place to ride; something very different for the two of us from the East Coast and we were looking forward to the sights and sounds of nature that the panhandle of Texas has to offer. The format- Joël enjoys road riding and myself mountain so what a perfect race in that we each can do what we prefer. The race vibe- word of mouth told us this is an event that give riders a good experience from start to finish.  The reason for the event- the support it gives to cancer survivors; both Nankmans have had close family and friends battle cancer and taking part in an event that gives back to a noteworthy cause is well worth the travels.  So here we are, 24 hours of driving to ride bikes for 24 hours. As the race slogan states, “cancer doesn’t sleep” so why should we?

For race weekend the entire park essentially shuts down to outsiders and is taken over by those attending the ride.  Riders and teams are assigned camping spots based on what event they are taking part in and if they are solo or teams; these aspects dictate the best camping location and proximity to the course.  Kudos to race director Ryan Parnell for allotting us a primo spot in the Lighthouse lot; it was on course for both the road and mountain event. As two self-supported solo riders (meaning we have NO other people to help us, it’s just us helping ourselves out there) access to our pit area (i.e. our van) where food, cooler with beverages, clothing, and all other various supplies that would be needed during 24 hours of riding is a key feature.  On a side note: the campgrounds where timing and lap counts occurred- Soapberry for the mountain event and Juniper for the road- had first come first serve areas for solo riders to setup teams tents if wanted.

Alright, back to event timeline.  Arriving Friday afternoon we got our bearings by driving a lap of the park and found our allotted camping/parking spot.  We met some other racers, who we have known loosely through social media, and finally put faces to names which was wonderful.  Relaxing for a few hours by movie watching and book reading until it was time to head up to the Mack Dick Pavilion for registration and the race supplied pasta dinner.  After dinner we set-up our pit area followed by a bit more relaxing, listening to the coyotes howl, and viewing the stars and Milky Way light up the night sky before bed.

Race morning started with the final race prep in anticipation of the noon start.  Race number on my Liv Pique Advanced tuned and made ready by Saucon Valley Bikes, organization of food and drinks, and making sure all gear and equipment is ready to go. Of the utmost important for this event was trying to stay cool and hydrated.  The hot Texas sun came out and the temperature was rising quick!  Mack Dick Pavilion, a few miles from our camping spot was the start location with rider meeting at 11:45.  We gave ourselves an hour to get there and get situated, which was way more time than needed; 30 minutes would have been sufficient. Joël and I found chairs and shade to sit and relax, drink electrolyte drinks, and made new friends by chatting with others.

Line-up for the start was called.  Racers were organized based on their event; road or mountain and competitive or non-competitive. Due to the fact we were going in different directions, Joël and I said our well wishes to each other and gave each our good luck kisses.  Directly after the start the road riders turned one way and the mountain bikes the other. Now both Nankmans were on their own, potentially not to see each for the next 24 hours.  A fly-over by classic planes and singing of the national anthem got racers ready prior for the neutral roll-out led by an armored SWAT vehicle through the parade of cancer survivors. This event and the money raised by fundraising benefits the Cancer Survivorship Center and many survivors and their family members lined the road cheering riders as the ride got underway. I tired to give high-fives to as many people as possible. Some riders truly raced to the trail while others rode casual for the few miles on the pavement that started the event.

Now time for the actual race to start.  24 hours solo. Not only how did I get through 24 hours of solo riding but how did I win the entire solo division, men and women, and set the new women’s record.  What went through my mind, how was my body, what did I eat and drink. Here’s a play by play of the event.

 Noon to 4pm; laps 1, 2, 3, 4.5

I admit I started out a little faster than I should have. I kept my heart rate and power output where I typically do for a long endurance event but one thing I did not factor into my effort was the heat; which would dictate maybe taking things down a notch or two to conserve energy.  It was SO hot out; my Garmin Edge Solar 1040 was telling me 109 degrees. Yikes!  As usual the first lap was crowded; a congo line of people at places but that’s fine, I use that as a time to learn the course and not worry about speed. No one is going to win a 24 hour race in the first lap, but it can be lost if you push to hard or do stupid stuff.  I ate a sleeve of Cliff Shot blocks just prior to the start, and had a pocket filled with more of those and Honey Stinger bars.  I carried two bottles; one with water and one with Gatorade in my Wolf Tooth Components double water cage holder. My plan was one bottle per hour and one pocket snack per hour. Every two hours (when my bottles were empty and my pocket snacks gone) I would stop at the neutral aid in the timing area and fill a bottle with water and enjoy a race supplied snack; usually a banana or orange and some pickles.  I also carried Endurolyes with me taking two every other hour or so.  This plan would mean I would only need to stop at the van pit area every three to four hours.  Van stops were planned for two new bottles, eating a big snack, refilling pocket snacks and any other essential items like sunscreen and bug spray. The less van time the better because the van becomes a time suck. The camp chair is so comfy. The blanket is so warm and cozy. The bed may be calling during the night laps.  Best to try to avoid these things as much as possible.  The first four laps went exactly as planned; having to back off quite a bit effort wise because of the heat was a necessary modification but otherwise all was according to plan as noted above.

Highlights of these laps: 

The beauty of the canyon. So many colors. The reds and browns of the rocks. The flowers. The green vegetation.  Nature is so wonderful. FYI: Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the United States behind the Grand Canyon. And in my personal opinion Palo Duro is more striking and beautiful.

4pm to 8pm; laps 4.5, 5, 6, 7, 8.5

At the end of lap four I stopped at the van.  Replenish bottles and food and sit down for a few minutes to eat some more substantial salty food of Ritz crackers, and drink a Boost and Coke.  Still eating and drinking as planned. Still taking it slower than planned because of the heat but not waivering in my hydration and calorie consumption.  As I finished lap 6 I noted a road bike propped up against the van, that must be Joël. I opened the van door and there he was, van on with the A/C running and all the fans pointed at him. The medics told him to take some time to cool off.  I spent time talking with Joël, sharing ride stories, and making sure he was OK. Then it was back out on course after applying a significant amount of bug spray. The biting flies were out of control!  Somewhere around the start of lap 8 lights were turned on. I started the race with all my lighting on myself and my bike; Lupine Piko already on my helmet and my Giant lights on the seat post, back of helmet, and bars. I find changing helmets and/or trying to put lights on, especially when self-supported and having to do it all on your own, can be cumbersome especially when tired and rushed. Better to just start with everything ready to go.  As the sun went down a spectacular thing happened, the temperature dropped.  Finally it was feeling pleasant out!

Highlight of these laps: 

The group of people cheering and handing out hydration to riders at the rocky overlook at the high point of the course. Great group of spectators giving all riders motivation and a wonderful and beautiful place to stop and hangout for a bit mid lap. I certainly did stop and grabbed some hydration while there, thanks!

8pm to midnight; laps 8.5, 9, 10, 11, 12

Finally a reprieve from the heat!  The sun had set and it was cooling down.  I felt revived. I was pedaling strong and felt good. Still keeping the same plan for eating and drinking. Lap eight was another van stop for a big refuel and get more bottles.  I ate my favorite guilty pleasure, a cheese Danish. Cheesy, sweet, doughy goodness and around 600 calories. Yum. After my big snack break time to continue on with the usual plan for the next few laps.  The neutral aid had put out clementines and Rice Krispy Treats which were now my go-to at that stop.  Night creatures were starting to show themselves on the course; snakes, toads, huge beetles, spiders.  Joël reports having seen an armadillo and turkey.  Lap 12 was another van stop.  This time big amounts of liquid calories; Coke and Boosts and also some Pringles. My stomach and gut were feeling a little off so I tried to go with more easily digestible items. I even sat for a bit after eating to allow my stomach to quiet down and digest a bit.  Oddly enough I was starting to feel a chill so I grabbed a windvest and thin arm warmers prior to heading out again.

Highlight of these laps:
Getting to know people. By now many of us solo riders were recognizing each other and as the night laps started we became a group of friends. Good conversations and fun times out there during these laps.  We were all a support group for each other.

Midnight to 4am; laps 13, 14.5 

Back around again and I was starting to feel the miles and the effort.  Time to sit down, relax, and recharge for a bit. Ate and drank a bunch to let the calories sink in.  Kept my full kit including my helmet on, put a jacket on to stay warm, and sat down in the camp chair. Timer set for 20 minutes and I do think I took a little snooze.  Nap time over and the brain fog was gone by physically I was still feeling blah.  I decided better to get riding anyway and just take my time. The next few laps were a casual pace and included a fair amount of walking. Oh well, it’s all still momentum in the right direction. Slow and pokey and the occasional stopping did allow me to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. The milkyway and stars were amazing. At one point I stopped and turned my light off and just took it all in.  Another aspect of the night laps I always find inspiring is seeing all the lights out there on course.  All the red tail lights and white front lights moving along the course is so cool to watch. When else is life does one get to see something like that?

Highlight of these laps: 
The neutral bike mechanic area. Music, campfire, lights, and cheering all night long. The music was a great mix of classic and alternative rock; up beat songs to get stuck in my head and I often rode much of the next lap singing them in my head; sometimes even singing out loud.  Thanks to all of you, definitely kept me going, you were all great motivation.

4am to 8am; laps 14.5, 15, 16, 17.5

More sleeping here, lap 15. This time a bit more substantial, I was getting cold. Maybe some heat stress  and sunburn from earlier were giving me the chills but I was feeling a little “off” and getting the chills.  Ate another cheese Danish, wrapped myself in a blanket, took off my helmet, laid down on the bed and set a time for 40 minutes.  This worked wonders as when I awoke I felt warm and refreshed.  Started out for lap 16 and within a few miles I crashed hard.  Fill in the next few moments of trail time with lots on inappropriate four-letter words.  Knocked the windout of me, resulted in scrapes and bruises, and required some time to sit trail side and make clothing and gear adjustments.  Following this I rode with hesitation for some time as not wanting to repeat the event.  By the end of lap 16 the sun was up and it was time to turn lights off. I was now stopping at the van a bit more often, more so every other lap.  Laps were taking me a bit longer and I was also feeling the need for more real food like pretzels and crackers than the pocket snacks I was carrying.

Highlight of these laps: 
The other riders on course. Early morning amongst riders. Especially solo riders, can be an interesting time. Many of us are really feeling it and those that are out there have typically been riding since the start.  But that is the beauty of it. We all come together, we support each other, and all become one in knowing we are a select group of crazies out there sharing the same surreal experiences.

8am to noon; laps 17.5, 18, 19, 20, 21

Taking some time to sleep and slow down during the last few laps has paid off. My body felt better, the stomach and gut woes I had dissipated and I was ready to get back to business. All those hours of strength training at Main Street Gym were paying off with legs and body that still felt strong.  The sun was up, lights turned off, and the trail and colors were gorgeous.  Back to the original refueling plan of carrying two bottles and utilizing the neutral aid station. I was back to really enjoying the pickles and pickle juice the aid station had to offer.  Lap 19 Joël and I met up at the van again and chatted about our rides and gave each other a little motivational speech to sustain for the last few laps. These last few laps were a blast!  So many awesome riders out there just enjoying the ride and taking pride in their achievements. By now all us solo riders were chummy with each other so lots of new friends to chat with.  In addition, the team transition area where the timing mats were and where the neutral aid was had become quite the party area with music, lights, and cow bells ringing.  Riders from all divisions and categories were gathered there cheering on others.  What a motivational place to go through.  The colors of the canyon were coming out again and it was looking like a beautiful painting. The only downside was the heat. Wow, who turned on the furnace at around 9am?  Wow did it get hot fast. As the temperature rose it did get harder to physically push but by that point it was just about getting to the end, so screw the heat, I was riding hard to the finish.

Highlights of these laps:
The party lap riders.  People were dressed in all sorts of silly outfits to celebrate the last lap.  I am already planning my shopping trip for my party lap outfit, what a great idea. 

Summary…my ride had it’s highs and it’s lows. It hurt but it also had lots of smiles.  There were terrible moments but there were also wonderful moments. The beauty of nature was outstanding. The people and conversations were fun and kept the wheels turning.  I wish the heat didn’t suck the life out of me like it had and I wish I didn’t have to sleep (which I feel may have been also an effect of the life-sucking heat) but a few short naps didn’t cause too much of a problem overall. Cycling and pushing the limits like this at ultra endurance events are my escape, my way to go all in into something I love and enjoy. No matter how terrible of a ride I am having it’s still an amazing day since I am on the bike. So mission accomplished, a great time out there doing what I love and enjoy.

Final finish time at 11:35, 23:35 race time, 21 laps, 178 miles

First overall rider of ALL 64 solo riders and set the new womens record

 Now for Joël’s road ride…sorry, it he wants to write about it he can. I gave some little details here and there in my event report.  The heat was a factor and he did have to sleep here and there but still put in a good ride.  300.9 miles for first in his division, third male overall and 6th overall road rider.  Despite the conditions he persevered but feels he could have done better.

So what did the post-ride time look like for the Nankmans? Post awards was ramen noodles with extra chicken and Muscle Milks.  Nap a few hours then off too the 25th hour celebration with a beers at Pondaseta Brewing Company in addition to checking out another local adult beverage company Bomb City distilling.  After that time to start the drive home.  Time to get back to work and regular life.

- words and race report by Jess
- photos by Jess, friend Lynnette, and race photo crew Red Family Photo

177.6 Miles of Gravel Freedom and Witching Hour Weirdness at the Moultrie Militia Gravel Raid

The term "witching hour" has a historical and cultural connection to the idea of a time when supernatural forces or witchcraft are most active; while folklore and literature define the phrase "witching hour" as referencing a time of darkness, mystery, and potential danger.  Some associate the witching hour with midnight while others believe it to be around 3 AM.

All I can say regarding the above is weird things happen in the forest during the middle of the night.  Riding alone in the darkness of Francis Marion National Forest there is not another rider in sight; there has not been for hours and will not be again for many more hours.  I did see another human sometime around midnight; I rode by a random man doing what I assumed to be his own personal controlled forest fire burn along the side of the road; it was just him, his old pick-up truck, and his dog. Did I really see this?  Just passed by, said hello, and kept on pedaling. As I mull about being alone in the forest at what is now 3am and look down at my GPS device to see what the next turn is…it’s onto Hell Hole Trail. I mutter aloud “ohhh…creepy name”.  All off a sudden I heard a strange screeching, almost screaming, noise in the forest. Nothing like anything I have ever heard before.  I turn to look, using the almost 1900 lumen of my Lupine Light to illuminate the forest, and I see an old creepy cemetery with an aged rotted wooden sign denoting the burial site.  I’m all alone. No cell service.  I have a moment of “this could be it, just like in the horror movies”.  I find solace in knowing least my spot tracker could be found via Follow My Challenge. Well, as you can tell since I have written this blog I made it out alive. Witching hour or not, the Moultrie Militia Gravel Raid is an awesome ride.

Starting at 11pm on Friday night, the MMGR embodies the ideology of the event’s namesake the revolutionary war hero Francis Marion also known as the Swamp Fox.  Taking place on the gravel and rural roads, along with some trails, within Francis Marion National Forest and around Lake Moultrie riders are unsupported, on their own, and riding most of the event under the cover of darkness.  No sag wagon. Little to no cell service.  Minimal gas stations and stores to get food and drink. No course markings; GPS devices must be used to navigate the 177.6 mile route. Race directors are watching riders via GPS trackers in the case of an emergency but that is the only connection to support. Truly on your own; just like the Swamp Fox navigating the swamps and forests of South Carolina.

After registering at Commonhouse Ale Works and buying some beer to take back home Joël and I, along with Clifford our dog who accompanied us to the event, headed to the race venue to get ready and take time to relax and try to nap a little. During the late afternoon and evening hours other MMGR riders arrived and it was soon time to, as the race director states “take up arms” under the light of the full moon.  The weather was perfect, temperatures in the 60s F and no rain forecasted for the entire duration of the event. Riders seemed excited about the challenge yet uncertain about what lay ahead as we all milled around the start line; regardless everyone was friendly, supportive, and ready to ride.  The race started with a lead-out moto and photographer, IconMediaAsheville, showing us the way and cheering for riders. The small but mighty group of us, about 20 riders, held together for a little while on the pavement, but once we hit the gravel the pack spilt up.  This is where my solo ride started and continued this way for the next 12 hours.

I pedaled along feeling like Céline Dion belting out “All By Myself”.  Hour after hour just cycling along upon my Liv Devote Advanced bike looking around at the forest.  I was sticking to my nutrition and hydration plan, eating and drinking as I rode, and all was going as expected.  My legs feeling strong from all the strength training at Main Street Gym I was monitoring my heart rate as I kept a steady pace.  I saw areas burned by what I can assume is either the recent wildfires or by controlled burns, at times even smelling smoke.  The forest was a beautiful array of pine trees, palmetto palms, and scrub brush.  Occasionally the course would come upon a farmstead or even a small village.  One road that stood out as interesting was miles and miles of chunky gravel with water culverts on both sides.  The sounds of the frogs and toads was deafening. Interesting there was also a random boat in the culvert and a washing machine off to the side in the forest.  Of course there was my other worldly events at 3am noted above.

After time spent in the forest the route traversed onto rural paved roads as it headed to circle around Lake Moultrie.  My first aid stop was around mile 74ish, a church spigot. Found by happenstance the first time doing this event, it has been the Nankman go-to every time now.  Bottles filled here I know I can make it essentially to the end without stopping again. The houses along the rural roads made for a party-like ride; many places had colored solar lights, porch lights, and decorative lights.  Something pretty to look at.  Barking dogs and curious horses kept watch.  A quick cruise through a small town, where there is a gas station for riders to purchase food and water if needed, then time to head onto the dike around the lake.

The lake portion is a love-hate.  It’s flat; it can be sucking mud, it can be windy; it’s exposed, and honestly down-right boring.  However, it’s really fun and surreal to see riders lights circling the lake.  Gives some motivation to catch someone or not be caught. Also, gives a sense of security to know others are out there. This year a fog rolled in just as I was around the lake, so I saw nothing, only fog.  Once again, sing it Céline. I could barely see the water let alone the other side of the lake. However, I was by myself out there.  I did see quite a few raccoons run along the trail ahead of me, a stray cat or two, and I was able to spot the eyes of alligators in the water. 

I had been feeling strong and alert all these hours but all of a sudden just before dawn an attack of, as Joël and I call it, “the sleepies” hit me.  A slap in the face of tiredness where it’s hard to ride in a straight line, it’s a challenge to keep the eyelids open, tough to keep pedaling. I stopped and rummaged through my handlebar bag for the emergency caffeine tablets and took one along with eating some Oreo cookies and a Rice Krispy treat to get as much quick sugar as possible.  Problem solved!  Well caffeinated and sugared-up it was time for forward motion again.

As dawn approached and the fog started to lift I finally saw other people. I passed by a few other cyclists but unfortunately they were all having less than stellar moments; just needed breaks and one was dealing with some mechanical issues. All stated they were fine, we wished each other good rides, and continued onward.  On the lake fishing boats appeared and many good morning waves were exchanged.  I spotted a majestic bald eagle in a tree; my only wildlife sighting once the sun came up.  Soon it was time to leave the lake and head back towards the finish, just a few hours to go.

Before heading back into the forest and swamps the course passed through another town which had numerous gas stations, a grocery store, and a few little convenience stores- all perfect resupply stops for riders. I was still carrying enough food and was looking forward to my cheese Danish as my next snack and knew I could finish with the water I had so I opted to cruise right on through. It was warming up now with the sun up so I took off my windvest and gloves and stowed them away in my Ortleib fork bag. Essentially by this point I was ready to just get this done; my legs were tired, my back was bothering me, I was getting weird toe-cramps; it was time for survival mode just to get to the end.

Despite my somewhat unenthusiastic reasons to get to the end, I did enjoy the last few hours of the course. Under the brightness of the sun, the forest colors were popping.  The blue sky was vibrant blue The pines a dark green.  Small yellow and white ground flowers were blooming.  The weather was wonderful.  The moto guy was out again taking photos, and his cheering was motivating.  A few miles from the end the MMGR course meets up with the Swamp Fox Grand Fondo riders so FINALLY other cyclists. Only took me 12 hours to get to pedal next to someone else on a bike.  As the course approached the end it turned to pavement and I decided to give it a little extra, pushing well beyond my comfort zone this far into an event, I really wanted to finish in 12:30 or under which was fast approaching. Despite my “sprint” to the end my official finish time was 12:34.

Crossing the line I was handed my personalized MMGR finishers plaque and exchanged accolades with the race directors. Joël who finished two hours earlier and was already showered took some obligatory podium photos for me.  A short time later after I cleaned up the Nankmans returned to the party area at the finish to enjoy our race supplied Empanada Cuisines meals, some Commonhouse beer, and cheered on and talked with other riders.  Now filled with food and beer it was evident Joël and I needed naps; by this point we had been awake for almost 30 hours.  We gave Clifford some forest wandering time while us humans relaxed and napped and soon enough it was time to start the journey home. Quick trip to Charleston for the MMGR complete!

What does Joël have to say about his ride; especially being he rode the new Saucon Valley Bikes Mondraker Arid Carbon RR? He says it was the first time in ages that he really raced. He pushed himself to the max. Riding the full event with a small pack of other riders they were working together yet also attacking each other for the full 177.6 miles.  It became a sprint to the line where Joël was afflicted with leg cramps that put him third within the group he was riding with, for a fourth place overall.  But racing to the point of discomfort is the only way to know you gave it your all.

- Jess

Moultrie Militia Gravel Raid (MMGR)

in conjunction with Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo

by Mt. Pleasant Velo

within the Francis Marion National Forest

North of the Charleston, South Carolina area

March 14-15, 2025

177.6 miles of gravel and rural roads

just over 10ish hours for Joël and 12:30 for myself

Joël 4th male; myself 1st female

 

Why We Keep Traveling 20 Hours to a Race- 12 Hours of Santos

 

12 Hours of Santos by Gone Riding

February 15, 2025

Vortex Trail System, Ocala, Florida

12 hour lap mountain bike race

 

By our calculation, Joël and I have been traveling from Pennsylvania to Florida for this race for somewhere around ten years now.  We missed a few years to take part in 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo instead (same weekend in February) and COVID made for a skipped event but for the most part it’s been a consistent attendance.

 

Why?  Why keep coming back?  Yes, the Nankmans race. But ultimately we do these crazy things because it is fun, because we enjoy it, because it is our outlet. So what brings us back to an event that requires almost 20 hours of traveling over and over again?  The people. The course. The weather. The race amenities.  So many amazing things!

 

The people. All of the other riders are so friendly. So much chatting while on course with others. In fact, both Joël and I have had full-on conversations with other riders.  Friendly passing and being passed, sir and mam are common words.  Not only are the racers friendly so are all their supporters.  Back at the put area, team members not currently on course and the friends and family of those out racing are always cheering and offering help if we need it.  There are pits that have disco lights, music playing, bull horns, cow bells, fire pits, and people cheering.  Many of these parties invite us over for a beer and food; before, after and even during the race!  Over the years Joël and I have made friends at this event, regulars that we reconnect with every time. It’s always so nice to look forward to and see familiar faces year after year. So many nice and supportive people.

 

The course is always a good ride.  It’s perfect for a 12 hour race.  Challenging but yet not overwhelming.  Technical and tough area yet also places to take it easy if needed.  Places to have fun and enjoy the ride yet also places to test one’s skill and power.  The course crosses through or near the pit area numerous times that allows for cheering locations. At the timing mat, the start and finish area, there is neutral aid and computer screens with lap info posted on it.  Course markings are appropriate to keep everyone going in the correct direction.  At night creatures such as raccoons, owls, mice, and frogs come out.  The nine mile course takes about 45 minutes to 1:15 for the average racer.

 

Sunny Florida.  Pennsylvania in February is of course a key reason to escape to Florida to race.  With the exception of one year where it rained and was chilly on race day it’s always been pleasant weather for this event. Sunshine and temperatures in the 70s or 80s F are perfect riding weather.  Better than the snow and ice that is Pennsylvania this time of year.

 

Gone Racing provides the full package to racers.  It’s always nice to show up at registration with a warm welcome. Friendly and helpful race organizers are there to check in racers and hand out the amenities such as T-shirts and sponsor goodies.  Breakfast race morning, typically granola bars and fruit, is available for all racers and some sort of post-race dinner, pasta or pizza, is available afterwards. However, one warning about the dinner, for those racing 12 hour solo food is gone by the time those of us racing until the end are finished so plan accordingly. Some years Joël and I have asked to have food set aside for us and our request has been accommodated, much appreciated. Pit area parking can be a bit hit or miss to find what the Nankmans need and want.  Parking and team tent set-up is first come first serve with the parking area opening early Friday morning.  Sometimes finding a good spot for two solo riders racing unsupported can be challenging but we have always gotten a spot along the course.  Also of importance is this is a dog friendly event, Clifford always comes along and has met many dog friends along the way.

 

Now, enough about why the Nankmans keep driving two days one way every February for a race.  How about our personal input into the 2025 version…

 

Myself racing and winning the 12 hour solo female event I can only say 2025 is off to a good start. Getting older, I am 47, and dealing with some injury issues last year I have changed things up a bit in my training and was looking forward to this race as a test. Most importantly I have instituted the help of a strength coach via Main Street Gym. Working more on strength training and stretching, more recovery, and less long grueling rides is now the focus.  This race I felt strong and smooth and was able to push hard until the end. I enjoyed attacking the technical sections and putting down power in the climby sections while also working on riding smooth and fluid on the twisty and turny sections. OK, I do admit by the last two laps when I was confident my win was certain I did slow down and party paced it a bit but I didn’t meander too much. I made it a point to chat with others and to enjoy the ride and smile every pedal stroke. If it wasn’t fun, or sort of fun, I would not be doing it.  13 laps with a clock time of 11:16 gave a solid win of the ladies field and even a top 10 finish for the open/expert solo field overall.

 

Joël reports that his event was a "terrible race but a good bike ride".  Being off the mountain bike for some time just to get away from trails, only gravel and road riding to enjoy the roads, this was a test to see if trails are still fun. And the answer is- “it was enjoyable”.  The heat and dehydration took it’s toll early on along with the challenges of riding single speed on this particular course. Feeling off and lackluster Joël made it a goal just to keep pedaling. No matter what his speed and no matter what the effort just continuing to the end was what mattered. And this goal was accomplished. Final race finish time of around 11:30 with 13 laps put him 7^th open men.

 

It was a good ride for both Nankmans and a good time overall at 12 Hours of Santos. Thanks to all our regular friends for making us feel welcome and for our new friends for making race day a good time.  Great job race organizers for putting on a top notch event. See you again in the future.

 

-          Words by Jess

-          Input from Joël

-         Photos from Gone Riding race organizers, official race photographers Essential Media Productions, and Joël

Back Again to 24 Hours of Great Glenn

 

24 Hours of Great Glenn

Mount Washington, Great Glenn House

Gorham, NH

Aug 3-4, 2024

Jess: 134 miles, 18 hour ride time, finish time 24 hours

Joël: rode until dark then ate bacon, drank PBR, slept and took photos

Back again to Great Glenn for the third time at this event for the Nankmans. Everything about this race makes it worth returning back to numerous times. The course is a good ride- fun yet challenging. The venue is a great place for camping for the weekend. Fellow riders are friendly and make for a pleasant time out on course.  The race organizers put on a good event- food, a circus tent as race headquarters, award ceremony, beer- all run smoothly and efficiently.

Bonus: the floating bridge.  Adds fun and I admit a bit of fear to each lap.

I am writing this almost six months post event so I can’t remember details. Thus this is a short and sweet blog post; hits upon the important details.  But, having done this race numerous times, all the fine details and event specifics can be found on previous blog posts: 2021 event click here, 2022 raced but no blog post.

Both Joël and I entered solo 24 hour; myself women over 40 and Joël single speed.  It had already been a full year of long distance races for both Nankmans; many 12 hour solo mountain bike events, ultra endurance gravel races (UNBOUND XL and GRUSK 270 just to put it in perspective), and 24 hour mountain bike races.  We arrived at Great Glenn feeling a bit haggard and uncertain of how things would go; have we raced ourselves into fitness or were we tired and unrecovered? Only way to find out was to ride.

The event started well for both of us.  Feeling strong and enjoying the ride.  The weather was hot but beautiful, no rain in the forecast and the sun was shining.  Both Joël and I were pedaling along doing what we need to do- eating, drinking, chatting with others, pedaling along in our long-term comfort zones.  The sun set and night riding started. My favorite part of these 24 hour events.  Animals come out, the temperature cools off a bit.  People slow down and the riding seems to be more low-key and we are all out there together just to endure and enjoy.  Both Nankmans were still feeling good. Until all of a sudden we weren’t.

Bonus during the dusk laps: "Temptation Corner"- bacon and beer hand-ups!  Kept us going through the next few laps.

Just a few hours into the night riding I was already feeling lackluster, just not wanting to be out there but still pedaling.  I came to the van and there was Joël putting his bike away and cleaning-up.  He said he was done. The prior months of long rides, hard training, and busy life and work schedule had caught up with him.  Nine hours in and he decided he was finished.  Being that I was on the verge of not wanting to ride it made choices more challenging for me about what to do. I was currently the top place in my category and either first or second female overall.  I really didn’t want to loose my position but both my mind and body were shutting down and seeing my husband call it quits made things uncertain for me.  I decided to continue on, slowly just to keep moving but yet still uncertain about how the next few hours would unfold.  I also was feeling the past few months of both physical and mental fatigue and it was catching up to me quickly.

Another lap or two in and I suffered the same fate as Joël.  I arrived at the van and that was it, I decided to stop, I was depleted. However, I was not sure if I was completely depleted or just to the point where I needed a break.  I ate and drank enough to replenish and restock calories and hydration.  I put on extra layers to stay warm but did not take off my current kit and clothing. I wanted to be able to rest and restore my body but I didn’t want to get too comfortable that I would not want to possibly go out again. I was still uncertain if I would take a nap and then keep riding or if I would call it quits completely. I was not going to make that decision until later.

I laid on the floor of the van and immediately feel asleep.  A few hours later I awoke and felt better. Not great but not ready to stop.  I decided to start pedaling again and see what happens. During my nap time I had relinquished the top spot but was not far behind and in addition the third place women was now not far behind me. It was race on!  I was feeling better and better each lap and all of us top ladies knew it was now game on; we all had to keep riding to not loose our positions.

Fast forward a few hours. The sun came up.  It was invigorating to know the last few laps of riding were upon us.  All ladies were still pedaling strong and we kept going until the end. It truly was a race to the finish.

By the 24 hours mark I finished second in the women over 40 and third overall women.  My time sleeping was the key factor in my personal results. I rarely if ever sleep during these long events, and if I do it’s a just a 30 min quick nap. Rarely do I sleep for hours and hours. But this time it was needed.  And the same goes for Joël.  Sometimes our physical and mental fortitude is just not there. Too much racing, too much going on in life…physical and mental stress takes it toll. And that is what happened and Great Glenn. But, we each made the decision that was needed for each of us, what we needed, and what was right for us at that time. 

As the saying goes “you need to know that sometimes you need to hold and sometimes you need to fold."

Another year of Great Glenn.  Despite not going exactly how we wanted still a good time for the Nankmans.  Riding was wonderful with a great course and beautiful mountain and forest.  The people and friends we connected with made for a good time.  Beer and food at the event along with the pre and post race festivities made for a fun time.  Camping at the race site and treating ourselves to dinner at the Glenn House (a local mountainside hotel) completed the weekend.  Certainly a recommended event and one we will be back to.

Bonus learned when camping on the way home- the T-shirts glow!

All made possible by:
Saucon Valley Bikes
Lupine Lights North America
Main Street Gym
Liv Cycling

-words by Jess

-input and photos by Joël

-photos by race photographer

Bike Doctor Grand Fondue by Dirty Kitten Gravel- Do it, you will enjoy it, we did.

 

Bike Doctor Grand Fondue by Dirty Kitten Gravel

October 26, 2024

Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery Middletown, Maryland

25, 50, and 100 mile distances

The Nankmans highly recommend this event!  What a great time. Before, during, and after.

Not a race but a "grand fondo" is a casual yet competitive event where riders can start anytime within the allotted time slots for their event or for the day. Some riders make these fun days with friends, some use them as training rides, come opt to race them. But that is the beauty of an event like this; you make it what you want. As for the Nankmans, our goal was a good solid day on the bike, take time to enjoy yet get in some good training miles.

Being October in the mid-Atlantic region of the US there was a bit of a chill early on so we waited to arrive at the event location; the goal being to start pedaling early enough to have ample time to not rush through the ride yet give it a chance to warm-up.  The sun was shining, there was no rain in the forecast but yet the morning temperatures were in the 40s.  The plan was to allow it to warm up to the low 50s when we started; high temperatures during the ride being forecast around 60 F.

Registration was smooth and concise.  The Dirty Kitten crew had everything organized and ready to go.  Parking was ample and easy in a big open field; we found the perfect spot for the van where we could let our dog out to stretch his legs.  The DK crew is friendly, fun, and energetic- which made getting ready at the event a blast. There were tickets being given out for door prizes, snack food for participants, and DK gear for sale.  A bike shop and mechanic were on site. The meadery, Orchid Cellar, was open for bathroom use.  All the information about the routes, aid stations, and on-course support was posted and well communicated.  Joël and I made quick work of registration, chatted with other riders, and were soon on our way to ride.

Both Nankmans opted for the 50 mile route. We wanted something that would give us a challenge and have us out there for a decent amount of time but yet we also wanted to make sure we would finish early enough to enjoy some libations at the meadery and get back to our campsite to enjoy a campfire and relaxation time. We had toyed with the 100 mile route…honestly those who know us know we felt a little guilty not riding that distance but we knew we would be out there too long and thus not have the rest of the day to enjoy.  This was a weekend where relaxation and social time took precedence over putting in the miles.

We are so glad we chose the route we did.  What an amazing ride!  A mixture of terrain both on and off road- pavement, gravel, and even some double and single track trail- made up the 50ish miles.  It also made for a total of 7,162 feet of elevation. Yup, that’s a huge amount of elevation for 50 miles and our legs felt it but it was so worth it.  Traversing through the rural farm country past horse and cattle farms. Climbing the gravel back roads up and down the mountain.  Bouncing through the single track of Fredshed. It certainly was a wild ride with something exciting around each turn.  Many beautiful rural single lane roads lined by historic houses, sprawling homesteads, and farm critters.  Many gravel roads, some smooth and some chunky, traversing through both fields and forest.  The climbs and descents were punishing yet spectacular. I swear the ascents went on forever and some seemed almost vertical...but that also meant equally as fun down hills.  Challenging yet wonderful, what a way to get those climbing legs worked out. Portions of single track and double track through the Fredshed area mixed things up a bit and for the mountain bikers amongst us it was a special treat.  Overall the course was amazing. It kept things interesting, exciting, challenging, fun, and beautiful all in one ride.

A well stocked aid station met riders partially through the 50 mile route (I’m not sure where and when for the 100 milers and if there was aid for the 25 milers….).  Rolling into the aid both Nankmans were hungry and what did our eyes see?  Numerous pans filled with warm and gooey grilled cheese! The most wonderful thing ever!  Joël and I chowed down, kudos to those that made this most tasty treat.  In addition to the grilled cheese there was the usual smattering of bars, snacks, and fruit. Water and electrolyte drink were available to fill bottles.  The aid volunteers were all cheerful, helpful, and stoked to be out there.

In summary, climbs and descents, amazing gravel, beautiful country roads, and some single track all with grilled cheese in the middle made for 54.4 miles, 7162 feet of climbing, 5ish hours of riding complete!

Now after all the pedaling is there anything better and more rewarding than ending an event at a winery and meadery? Orchid Cellar Meadery and Winery was the host venue supplying libations and entertainment for riders post event. All riders received a complimentary drink, and as did Joël and I many treated themselves to a few more. Event participants along with their friends and family mingled, enjoyed the firepit, listened to music, and swapped stories reminiscing about their day on the bike.

Ride done, drinks enjoyed, socialized with others and it was soon time to head back to our camp spot for the weekend at Fort Frederick State Park. Proximity to the event made for a short drive Saturday morning and easy access back to the camp ground for relaxing for the remainder of the weekend.  The state park is what all parks should be; history and outdoor activities.  An old fort with tours and interactive seminars showcases events from the last few hundred years. The park has miles of trail for hiking and cycling ranging from grassy double track to meandering single track.  There is direct access to the C&O canal path. Camp spots are relatively close (typical of state parks) but still offer privacy.  Definitely a campground worth staying at for the grand fondue and also somewhere to consider for some time away hiking and riding.

Beautiful yet challenging course, tasty mid-ride aid station food, post ride drinks at a unique location, and a well organized event-all make the Grand Fondue an event that both Nankmans enjoy and can recommend.  See you all back there again in the future.

 

-words by Jess

-input by Joël

- photos by event photographer de Luna Shoots