24 Hours of Conyers- The Pain Tent

24 Hours of Conyers
Chainbuster Racing
November 17-18, 2018
Georgia International Horse Park, Conyers, Georgia
Joël 1st overall solo male, Jess 1st overall solo female
Video- just click on to play

How did Joël and I come up with the idea of doing this event? It began with the discussion "let's do a 24 hour race in the Southeast U.S. in October or November; it's cold in Pennsylvania that time of year, it certainly will be warm and sunny if we go south" is what both Joël and I were thinking when we searched for races.  We did some internet searching and solicited advice from others about good races in the Southeast and decided upon entering the Chainbuster Racing 24 Hours of Conyers. We picked a great race but we were totally wrong about the weather.

As Joël, Clifford, and I all packed into the van and departed from home two days prior to the race to begin our drive, a winter storm hit the Northeast. The first few hours of driving were slippery and slow going.  Not the best way to start a long journey, let alone start the travels for a race.  The first highway rest stop we came to, which is usually about a two hour drive, took us about four hours to get to.  As we moved farther south the snow turned to rain and the road conditions improved. We didn't make it as far as we planned the first day, but a restful night in a Cracker Barrel restaurant parking lot had us ready to go the next morning.  We arrived at the race venue the day before the race with ample time to set-up our pit area, register, and relax.  All in all, a drive that should have taken 12 hours took 17.  But hey, to put a positive spin on it, Joël and I won the award for the longest drive and were given race-sponsored shorts and jersey.


This was the first time both Joël and I raced this event; in fact the first time racing at this location and in an event put on by Chainbuster Racing.  We had ridden the trails at Conyers many years ago when traveling through Georgia on our way to Florida so we had some idea what to expect when it came to the course and terrain but racing at this venue and with this group of competitors was an unknown to us. Who do we look out for?  Who are the local favorites?  What can we expect from our fellow racers?  All things to take into consideration when competing in an unknown event.  Because of this, both Joël and I decided to take the approach of start slow and conservative, get a feeling of the course, the pace, and who we will be racing.  So at the start, we lined up close to the back of the pack and just decided to feel things out as the race went on. Hey, it's 24 hours of racing, there is a lot of time to ride so starting slow is not always a bad thing.

So that's how the beginning hours of the race went.  It was a beautiful afternoon for the first few laps, around 60 degrees and sunny- shorts and jersey weather.  I rode my first lap with a very friendly and talkative local rider who helped me dial in a good pace and helped the time fly by.  He and his teammates became my own personal cheering section throughout the entire race- thanks guys!  Great weather, fun course, friendly fellow racers, nutrition and hydration were on point; everything was smiley and happy until the night laps hit.

Once it got dark the temperatures dropped.  They dropped quickly and significantly to below freezing.  OK, this may not seem like a big deal, Joël and I ride in sub-freezing temperatures all the time. But it's different in an event like this.  Your body is already taxed and burning calories at an alarming rate, it's tough to thermoregulate.  You are sweaty and muddy, which doesn't help with staying warm but you can't keep changing, that's just not practical, so you just add layer after layer to keep heat in.  Sometimes you are walking, sometimes riding, sometimes climbing or sometimes coasting downhill; so your heart rate goes up and down; which means hot and sweaty one minute and cold and shivering the next minute. Each lap you stop for a few minutes at the pit area to refuel; just standing around for a few minutes gets really freaking cold.

So how did we deal with this coldness. Number one: suck it up. It's a race, a 24 hour race; things are going to be bad at times, there will be deep and dark places one's mind and body goes. There may be tears, there may be cursing, but one just needs to push through these moments. Put on more layers and keep pedaling.  Number two: our changing tent.  The tent is meant primarily to be used to change clothing during the race, but with the addition of our little propane heater it became a way to warm up. Sitting next to the heater while changing kits was a moment of warmth during the cold night laps.  One person aptly named it "the pain tent", which it certainly was.  Number three: our pit area neighbors.  The two guys next to us, who were very friendly and helpful the entire event, had a campfire during the night. Both Joël and I spent some time between laps standing next to the fire to keep warm. Friendly conversation with our neighbors also helped lift our spirits.  Number four: the van. Around four in the morning each of us hit our breaking point. We were cold, the course was getting icy and slippery, and practically no one else was riding.  The zero degree sleeping bags in the van and a warm and cuddly Clifford were calling to us. So yes, we admit it, we each took a nap for a lap.  We were far enough ahead of our competition that taking a break to get warm and revive for a bit was worth it. Sleeping is not the ideal situation in a 24 hour race but sometimes it is just the best thing to do.



And when the alarm went off and we woke from our naps the sun was coming up and it was time to ride again. So back on the bikes we went.  The last few morning laps to seal the win were slow and painful, by this point it was just about turning the pedals and getting in the miles. Joël finished first overall male and myself first overall female.  Custom made awards and cash were awesome prizes to celebrate all those hours on the bike.

Despite the weather this event was top notch and we would recommend it to others. Chainbuster Racing puts on a great event; well organized and one can tell they are truly there for the racers.  Great race perks like custom race swag and custom awards. The course at Conyers was perfect for a 24 hour race; just enough going on to keep riders on their toes and not bored but not enough to be overbearing when it became dark and riders were exhausted. This is an event both Joël and I would recommend to others and anything by Chainbuster Racing is worth attending.

And of course thank you for Saucon Valley Bikes and Liv Cycling for the support during not only this race but the entire year.

For more reading, check out the Liv Cycling race report: https://www.liv-cycling.com/us/news/nankman-takes-home-the-win-at-her-first-24-hours-of-conyers/23465

- video by Joël
- photos by us and Wingfoot Photos
- words by Jess

Heading South- An Autumn of VORS Racing in Virginia

Heading South- An Autumn of VORS Racing
Making sure to still have fun while pushing through the end of the year doldrums at the RVA 13 and Paranormal 6 Hour race.  Tops spots for both Nankmans at both races.

RVA 13
October 6, 2018
Maidens, VA
1st open women for Jess, 1st single speed for Joël

This race is a re-visited version of the previously held RVA 24 and 18; which we have raced numerous times in the past. Now being put on by Ride.Run.Race; it is the same location and the same course as the previous versions but it is shorter, being now a 6 and 13 hour race rather than an 18 or 24 like it was in the past.

Joël and I have always enjoyed this race; fun course, well organized, and just an overall good vibe. Being put on by a different race organizer, we weren't sure what to expect but we decided to return.

This year's version was not the same as other years, but nevertheless it was a good event worth making the drive to.  It was well organized, the course was the same fun singletrack, was in good condition and well marked, and an ample supply of post-race pizza was perfect to fill one's belly after a long day in the saddle. Big bonus is hot showers on site, such a luxury!  Gone were the aliens, chickens, and colorful lights along the course which were something racers always looked forward to.

Personally this was a very challenging race for both of us. I blew up, bonked, what ever you want to call it at about six hours in.  I decided to do a little experiment at this race, to see how long I could push above my comfort level, because one never knows until they try. All I can say is it was along seven hours during the second half of the race.  After my melt down, I was still wanting to go mentally but just physically had nothing. Mind over matter, I just pedalled along at a comfortable pace for the remainder of the race.

Joël had a spectacular first eight hours, then he fell apart.  The temperatures were hotter than he expected, he pushed super hard the beginning of the event, and then felt it all later.  Near the end of the race he took a short nap on a park bench mid lap until I came along, and then we rode the last few laps together.

Sleeping in the van that night after the race was interesting. Both of us were so sore we would randomly have muscle cramps and spasms, something simple like rolling over was tough and often invoked moaning and whimpering.  The sign of a tough race and a beat-up body.

Overall we were glad we returned to this event. It wasn't what it used to be but we still enjoyed our time at the RVA 13.

6 Hours of Paranormal
October 20, 2018
Earlysville, VA
Joël 1st single speed, Jess 1st open women

A party with a race involved is what we kept hearing about this event. This has always been on our radar, but previous years something else was always happening during the race weekend. This year we made a point of making this event a priority and to clear our schedule to attend.

It certainly was a good time, and yes, there was a quite a bit of partying go on. One could be a serious racer or one could just go for the fun and meander along the course, all riders were welcomed and embraced.

Costumes were sort of required for this race. Sort of being that if a racer didn't wear a costume they must run the prologue. All but one racer dressed up.  Joël and I went with a luau theme, complete with grass skirts, leis, and flowers on our bikes.  Our pit area for the lap race included a palm tree and hula girl.

The course was an eight mile lap; and the format was to do as many laps as possible in six -ish hours. Being all single track, the trails were tight and twisty with roots, roots, and more roots.  No sustained climbs, but lots of punchy ups and downs made for tired legs.  Overall the course was just challenging enough to keep riders on their toes but not over the top, enjoyable, and an appropriate course for a long lap race.  The best part of this course was the Halloween decorations. All along the course were skeletons, tombstones, ghouls and goblins, ghosts, and decorative lights (check these out in the video below).

As for our races, both Joël and I took top honors, winning our divisions. Despite winning, neither of us had our best races. Yes, we enjoyed the course, the decorations, the friendly fellow racers, and the well organized event and volunteers. Maybe it was a little end of the year burnout, maybe it was spending a week taking care of my mom's horse farm previous to the race, maybe it was forgetting some items when packing...but neither of us was mentally in the zone to race.  Sure, we wanted to ride and be on our bikes, we just didn't want to race.  Add to that a good crash early on for Joël that produced a broken brake lever and this race become more of a survival event than a race.

But positive attitude and sheer will power always prevails.  Due to the mechanical I caught Joël and we decided to ride together for the remainder of the race. Singing songs, talking about all the cool things around the course, conversing about life in general got us back into the groove and we sped along together.

Post race was a big party.  Adult beverages were provided, fire pits to sit around, and music made for the perfect place to hang out with fellow riders.  Camping on site was allowed which meant all we had to do was clean up and roll into the van for the night.

Overall this was an awesome event that we would recommend to all others. Whether you want to truly race or just go there to party-race the ride, this is the event for you. Bring your friends and bring your family (oh ya, there was a kids race also) for the festivities.  Just don't forget your costume!

So what did we learn from these two VORS races?  VORS racers are a great group of people, always friendly racers before, during, and after the event.  Always a good vibe and lots of fun.  We also learned that Joël and I are so happy to have each other. When the going gets tough we can depend on each other to pull us out of a slump and who else would we rather ride with than each other.

Now it's time to relax, recover a bit, and prep for the next 24 hour race.

- words by Jess
- pictures and video by Joël
- post race cuddling by Clifford

Click on video above to play

The most difficult 24 hour race yet, One and Done 24 Hours of Brady's Run

One and Done 24 Hours of Brady's Run
The most difficult 24 hour race we have done...and it was awesome.
September 1 and 2, 2018
Beaver Falls (just outside Pittsburgh), PA
Joël 1st solo male, Jess 1st solo female

CLICK ON VIDEO PICTURE BELOW TO PLAY VIDEO


This race was advertised as being one of the most difficult 24 hour races out there. It lived up to that reputation. Over the years, Joël and I have done 24 hour races throughout the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. 24 Hours of Brady's Run was both mentally but mostly physically more challenging than any other 24 hour race we have done. In fact, both Joël and I both agree it was probably one of, if not THE, most challenging race we have EVER done (over adventure races, Ironman triathlons, long distance swims, kayak races, stage road and mountain bike races, and long distance to runs...just to name a few of the endurance events we have done over the years).

24 Hours of Brady's Run was the same location and incorporated the same trails as the long standing 6 Hours of Brady's Run.  As the 6th anniversary of the 6 hour race, the race director decided to hold a 12 and 24 hour race. The Nankmans are glad that he did! Sure, the course was tough, really tough. But it was an amazing experience. Friendly and supportive fellow racers and race staff, tasty and filling post race food, cool T-shirts and race swag, shower and bathrooms on site, a great race photographer, and unique awards...overall just an awesome vibe to this event.

Having competed in the 6 hour event in the past, and knowing the course was tough for that race, Joël and I knew what we were in store for.  The 24 hour race measured at just about 12 miles per lap, around 1700 feet of elevation gain per lap, and tested riders skills and determination from start to finish.  There was a creek crossing. A few really big climbs; one was a hike-a-bike every time; some of the others became hike-a-bikes for the last few laps.  Overall technically challenging from start to finish; there was one super gnarly rock garden that sent me over the bars, Joël rode it well numerous times.  Some of the downhills were loose and sketchy.  To summarize, there was nowhere on this course in which one could relax. It was lap after lap of mental and physical anguish.  And Joël and I just kept doing it over and over again!  In the end, Joël subjected himself to 12 laps of torture, myself 11 laps.  Do the math- that is upwards to 141 miles and just over 20,000 feet of climbing.

So our personal experience of this race?  We just kept riding our bikes. That is really what it comes down to. Ride a lap then stop for a few minutes to eat, switch out bottles, apply chain lube, and be on our way.  I stopped twice during the race to let Cliff out to pee. Joël stopped a few times during the night to put more fuel in the generator.  I changed clothing once; Joël changed twice. And yes, each of us did sleep for a bit, just over an hour around 5am. We we lucky that we were able to ride a good portion of the race together. Just after the first night lap Joël caught me; he was actually lapping me.  By that point we each had a substantial lead and decided that in the interest in safety and mental stability it would be best to ride together. So we rode together for about 11 hours, even crossing the finish line together on our final lap. We came across the line with a kiss.  As a married couple Joël and I wouldn't want anything more than to spend our time together doing crazy things like this!

Yes, this was by far the most difficult 24 hour race we have ever done.  But it was amazing. The course was challenging but fun, it made us want to be out there to both challenge ourselves and enjoy time on the bike.  All of the other racers were supportive and friendly; there was not a night lap that went by where racers were not up and about in the pit area cheering. Out on the course racers always gave a friendly hello and words of encouragement; just an amazing atmosphere amongst fellow riders. The race director and volunteers were all there to make sure racers had a good time and enjoy the event.  There was a super friendly race photographer, Mike Briggs, who was all over the place taking amazing action photos.  Post race pizza was supplied, and the race director saved some for us knowing we would be out there racing until the end (which you don't know how much that means to us, thank you!).  We came away from the race with great race T-shirts as race swag. The race awards were the best; clocks with the race logo on it (which is on display in our dining room), bottles and tool kits, and a cash pay-out. Joël and I don't race for the prizes, we do it because it's what we enjoy and we want to push our limits, but awesome race awards make it that much more amazing.


24 Hours of Brady's Run had everything a top-notch race should- friendly fellow racers, supportive staff and volunteers, amazing race swag and awards, fun and challenging course. This was such a great race, one that we will remember and talk about forever.  And if a 24 hour option is offered in the future; you bet we will recommend it and be there for another round of torture...oh, I mean fun.

Read more about the race on the Liv Cycling website/Facebook race recap:
https://www.liv-cycling.com/us/news/nankman-wins-one-and-done-24-hours-of-brady-s-run/23231

Thanks to Saucon Valley Bikes for keeping our bikes going despite all we put them through. In addition, Liv Cycling gear, equipment, and my Pique Advanced have been through a lot this year with all the training and racing, thanks to Liv for the support.

- words by Jess
- photos by the Nankmans and Mike Briggs
- video by Joël

Kicked out of the park, tons of gravel, and the longest flat fix ever- summer racing in review

The good and bad of the summer racing at Fair Hill Classic, Wilderness 101, and Point Peter Pounder.

Summer racing is always interesting. It's that time of year where we hit a bit of a lull.  Joël and I are fit from spring races and training and all we want to do is ride our bikes.  Which is just the thing, we want to ride, not necessarily race.  Family vacations, charity rides, picnics and parties are all happening and we are trying to fit in races and van-camping weekends around all of this. It's an amazing time of year to be out there riding and racing, but also an exhausting time of year which makes it tough to get into a racing mentality.  But somehow we always manage to hit that start line ready to go.

Fair Hill Classic 6 Hour Endurance

Elkton, MD
July 7, 2018

1st open women Jess; 2nd open men (1st single speed) Joël

This was a new-ish race for us. We have raced at Fair Hill in the past, but this was the first time for this exact event.  Because of the super early start, we decided to head down to the race location the night before and sleep in the van. Camping was not allowed at the race venue, so we decided to poach a local camping area, which I am going to keep unnamed so that I don't get Joël and I in even more trouble than we already were that night. There appeared to be other people camping (who probably belonged there) who we waved a friendly hello to as we pulled in close to nightfall.  We parked, sat at a picnic table next to the van to eat dinner while Cliff wandered around a bit, all the while continued to see our neighbors off in the distance just out and about doing their thing. We continued to occasionally wave hello and smile.  After dinner we packed up and went to bed.  I feel we appeared friendly and non-threatening. Just as we were falling asleep we hear a loud voice telling us to exit the van and we see flashing lights. In our sleep-induced state we climb out of the van and find an authority figure there who is busting us for being where we aren't allowed.  We explain to him about the race the next day and that we are just parking here for the night.  He was actually very apologetic for waking us, making us move, and was quite understanding about us being there for the race the next day. But the rules are the rules. No tickets or fines, just a warning.  He gave Joël and I some ideas of others places, like local truck stops, to stay.  He also informed us that the reason he was called to check on us is that the other people nearby felt threatened by our van. Darn white creeper van!  So off we went to sleep in a parking lot for the rest of the night.

As for the race the next day it was an event worth attending.  The course was well marked, volunteers super friendly, great race photos by PJ Freeman, and top-notch race goodies such as custom awards and a complimentary beer to all racers. The second place women and I battled it out for the first few laps, she had me racing hard.  What an amazing effort by both of us, I certainly had to fight for this win.

Wilderness 101

Coburn, PA
July 28, 2018

Jess 6th open women; Joël 6th single speed

We mixed it up this year for our summer races; doing things differently than normal. Usually we would do a 24 hour race the same weekend as Wilderness, the Hardcore 24. Due to a family event, my sisters wedding, Hardcore was not an option. So we decided to re-visit Wilderness 101.

It had been many years since Joël and I did this event, and from what we had heard the race has changed quite a bit since then.  Less single track and more gravel road, which is just not our style and is why it took us so long to come back. But; it was something to do that particular weekend that fit into our schedule and we knew good friends would be there so it was worth going back to.

Worth going back to, but both Joël and I have to say not something we will be chomping at the bit to get back to.  Don't get us wrong, it's a good race. Well run, great volunteers, good organization, amazing post-race food, ample camping on site; but it's just not our style. Too much gravel.  If you like riding a 100 mile endurance race that is heavy on the gravel and light on the single track this race is for you.  Joël and I thrive on single track, it's what we enjoy and what we are good at. So this was just not the race for us.

Despite not being our cup of tea, we still enjoyed the event.  We spent a good portion of time catching up with friends, especially our very favorite aid station volunteers ever.  We enjoyed sleeping in the van. And no matter what, we always enjoy riding our bikes.  We just enjoy riding them more on trails than on gravel roads.

Point Peter Pounder 4 Hour Endurance

Port Jervis, NY
August 12, 2018

1st open women Jess; 2nd open men Joël


We zoomed up to this race the evening after a family reunion; what a beautiful drive along the Delaware Water Gap.  Luckily we didn't get kicked out of our overnight sleeping spot and woke up ready to race.

These trails are so much fun!  This was a race that both Joël and I just really enjoy being on our bikes; it made us smile. Which is what we needed. After Wilderness 101 we hit a lull, we just weren't enthusiastic to race. This event definitely turned things around for us.

We did a race here a number of years ago; it was a long race, it was cold and wet, the trails were slippery and tough; just not the most fun day on the bike. So we figured this event would be a way to re-visit the trails and hopefully they would make a better second impression, and they certainly did.

The format was a four hour endurance, most laps is the winner.  At the same time, the various levels of XC races were going on. A few friends of ours were racing the XC race, and this gave us a chance to chat with them a bit while riding. Always great to see friends out there on the course. The course was mainly single track, challenging and technical but not over the top.  Laps were taking on average about 50 minutes.

With rocks of course come flats, and I got a doozy of one.  Tire sealant was spurting out everywhere but with a little CO2 inflation I thought it sealed. Made it about half a lap back to the pit area and it started to go flat again. OK, time to put in a tube. I teach womens fix-a-flat clinics, so this should go smoothly, just like when I teach. Ha, no such luck.  The tire sealant stuck the tire to the rim, the boost hub was being uncooperative, and the chain somehow tied it's self into a gigantic knot.  Took me 20 minutes to fix this flat.

So here is my full disclosure about this race; I was the only women racing. Did that stop me from racing to my fullest potential, no, not at all. I dialed in my typical race heart rate and stuck with it, pushing hard as if I was in the throws of competition.  I could have stopped when I encountered the troublesome flat, and have just not gone again for another lap. I didn't need to do another lap.  From the start I could have just easy pedaled, taken my time, and stopped when I flatted. But instead I struggled through the flat, raced according to my regular race pace, and rode like I would any other race.

Why you ask? Because I just plain love riding and racing my bike. I want to be out there. And I am always going to give it my best.

So that's our Summer racing in summary. There was a little bit of everything; some things we liked and some we didn't. But all in all JoëL and I had a good time, we rode our bikes to the best of our ability, and came out of all of it with a smile on our faces.  Cliff accompanied us to all of these races, spending some time just hanging out in the forest which is what he really enjoys doing.  Onward to the Autumn racing season. And no, not cyclo-cross for us, we keep on racing mountain bikes.

- words by Jess
- photos by Joël and PJ Freeman (race action shots from Fair Hill)
- fun forest time by Cliff

Learning from our previous mistakes: 24 Hours of Summer Solstice

24 Hours of Summer Solstice

Bolton, ON, Canada

June 23-24, 2018

Joël 2nd overall solo men (on his singlespeed), Jess 1st overall solo women

Joël and I did this race two years ago, and it was not a good race for either of us. Our arrival and set-up were not conducive to being well rested.  We battled with hydration, nutrition and temperature regulation.  We both slept overnight, and stopped riding well before the 24 hour mark.  Both Joël and I did many incorrect things during that race which caused it to be not what we wanted, and we were determined to not do those things this time around. We learned from our mistakes and it paid off with podium spots for both of us this year at the Chico Racing 24 Hours of Summer Solstice.

So how was the 2018 race for Joël?  Here is a  video recap of his event (just click on video to play):

And my race?  Here is race recap from Liv Cycling:

https://www.liv-cycling.com/us/news/nankman-wins-24-hours-of-summer-solstice/23019

So what did we change this time to give us much better results as featured above? If you are planning a endurance event read and learn from our mistakes.

Arrival and set-up

We always take the day off from work the day before a 24 hour race. It allows for prep and travel time. In 2016 we decided to do bunch of yard work on Friday morning before leaving. Why, I'm still not sure about why we ever decided this.  Hedge trimming, grass cutting, and weed whacking the day before a big race is a bad idea, it makes one sore.  Also, because of doing home chores, we got on the road later than planned. Of course we hit traffic. We ended up not arriving at the race site until well after dark, in fact well after our planned bedtime.  All we did was pull into a spot and go to sleep. This means we had to do all our set-up on Saturday morning before the race. Setting up the morning of a race may not seem like a big deal, but it does take time, energy, it's stressful, and it's time on our feet. for 2018 we were determined to avoid all of the above.  On Friday we slept in a bit, did nothing except the last bit of packing, and got on the road at a decent time.  We made good driving time and arrived in Canada well before dark. We set up our pit area, had dinner, and went to bed when planned. The proper way to prepare the day before a 24 hour race.

Hydration and nutrition

One would think after so many years or racing we would have hydration and nutrition figured out.  Apparently not. The 2016 version of Summer Solstice was hot.  We got caught up in racing, didn't drink enough or eat enough, plain and simple.  We also consumed the fluids and calories that we would for a shorter race, which after much trial and error we have both learned that for a 24 hour race you need to take in more per hour than what you would for a shorter race. Your body is going for a longer period of time, it needs to be fueled better.  We have learned from prior mistakes and now take a bit more time between laps to properly refuel and re hydrate.

Temperature regulation

Joël and I now have all sorts of ways to deal with overheating.  2018 was not nearly as hot as 2016 but we learned from previous mishaps and now know all sorts of great ways to stay cool.  We each have our own cooler for our bottles 24 bottles that is, which is also filled to capacity with ice.  Buried beneath the ice is sponges, small towels, and tube socks filled with ice. These all sit in the ice water all day and can then be used to keep cool. Stuffing a cold sponge or sock filled with ice into your jersey is a sure-fire way to cool off. Wiping your face and arms with a cool towel between laps helps to cool via evaporation.

Not sleeping 

All of the above are important if one wants to ride all throughout the evening hours. In 2016 we were so overheated, dehydrated, and tired from not preparing well the day before that we both slept a few hours overnight.  2018 was a completely different story; Joël did not sleep at all, his actual ride time was only 46 minutes short of his race time. Though I took a short nap in the middle of the night.  We were well rested coming into the race and kept up our fluid and calorie intake and these led to bodies that could keep going overnight; no major exhaustion, dehydration, or bonking that required major sleep time.

Every race we learn something. Some races go terribly and we learn what not to do, some races go really well and we learn what to do. No matter what, every race teaches us something we can do better next time.  And the goal is to put all these things we learn to use, to have a good race, and to earn a podium spot.  Goal accomplished for the 24 Hours of Summer Solstice in 2018.

- words by Jess

- video by Joël

- action shot of Jess by Apex Photography

- media posting by Liv Cycling USA

Spring Racing and Wacky Weather- Bakers Dozen, Rattlin', Iron Furnace, French Creek

Spring Racing-Trying to Train and Race During the Wacky Mid-Atlantic Spring Time Weather

Freak snow storms, rescheduled races, best co-workers ever and lack luster motivation...working through early season struggles to earn podium spots.

Rattlin' Off Road Marathon 50K

April 14, 2018

Wiser State Forest, Lykens, PA

Jess 2nd overall female; Joël 2nd single speed

This is one of our favorite races, we just keep going back year after year. It's a tough race, super rocky and technical terrain. Overall not too much climbing; just one big sustained climb in the beginning to get up to the ridge top and then that climb as a descent at the end. In between this the course traverses challenging single track with a few double track and gravel roads thrown in. 

Rattlin' is one of those races where one has to be on their "A" game both mentally and physically; sometimes you are and sometimes you are not. This year was a "not" time. Many demanding things going on during life in general the previous weeks had me showing up at the starting line not really ready and not really inspired to race hard. Besides life in general, the weather for this race was less than stellar. The day before when I was teaching a Liv Ambassador clinic the sun was shining and it was around 80 degrees. On race day, the very next day, it was rainy and damp and not much above 40 or 50 degrees for the entire race. 

But regardless of what life and mother nature throw at me, I always make sure to push as hard as my mind and body will allow for how they were feeling. Not my best effort out there but still enough to earn a podium spot, 2nd overall female. I was content with my race; neither ecstatic nor disappointed. I enjoyed the course, enjoyed being out there, and enjoyed seeing many cycling friends after a long winter. Standing around the fire pit after the race was probably one of the best parts of the day; just relaxing and talking with friends is one of the many reasons Joël and I do all this crazy stuff.

As for Joël, he pushed hard from start to finish. He was happy with his race and also earned himself a podium spot, 2nd in the single speed division. He just loves the rocks and technical terrain of this race.

Leesburg Bakers Dozen

April 21, 2018 (rescheduled from April 7)

Private estate, Leesburg, PA

Joël 1st open men; Jess 2nd overall female

Due to a freak April snowstorm this race was rescheduled. I know the race director chose the best option for the racers, the race, and the course, but WOW did this rescheduling cause chaos in the Nankman household. Well, just for me, but Joël had to deal with my high stress levels and constant freaking out about the rescheduling process. I was supposed to work on the Saturday of the new race date. All I can say is THANK YOU to my wonderful co-workers and boss who went above and beyond to give me Saturday off, re-do the schedule, and gave me some extra hours off for travel time the day before the race. This race would not have been possible without the help and support of my colleagues. 

As for the event itself, wow, did this race hurt. The winning woman and I battled it out for a good portion of the race; I ended up 2nd overall female. Even after she put some distance on me, I kept pushing hard because it's a race, one never knows what can happen. After almost 14 hours of hard riding, I felt almost as tired as I do after a 24 hour race; this course and effort were exhausting. I came home sore, tired, huge blisters on my hands and chafing in sensitive and private areas but all the while knowing I pushed the hardest I could.

Joël put in a top-notch effort, racing to the very end. In second place with only a few laps to go, he was told he was gaining on the first place guy. That was the inspiration Joël needed and he turned on the afterburners. He moved into 1st place with not much time to go and held his position. A hard effort and a well deserved win.

How did Cliff feel about this weekend of racing? He was not so sure about what to make of our weekend neighbors.

Iron Furnace 50K marathon

May 5, 2018

Wawayanda State Park, Hewitt, NJ

Jess 2nd overall female; Joël mid-pack open men

I flatted at about mile three of the race. I was in second place, with the lead women within sight when I heard the whoosh of air out of my tire. As I fixed the flat (thank goodness for all those Liv Ambassador Fix-a-Flat clinics I teach) the remainder of the womens field passed on by. Great group of ladies, yes, we are racing but they all offered to help if needed. Once I was up and rolling again, it was a game of catch-up. By about mid race passed back all the ladies and was again in second place. I never saw the lead rider again after my flat, but I kept pushing hard to make sure I kept my podium spot and finished where I was as 2nd female.

Despite my mechanical, I had a great day out there. The course was challenging yet fun, beautiful scenery, and I certainly pushed hard after that flat to catch back and pass all the other ladies which was some great high intensity training. Many friendly and supportive racers out there to talk to and help inspire each other.

Joël had a lack-luster day. He rode in the open category on his single speed. He just wasn't feeling it and opted to take a more casual approach for this race.

On the Rocks at French Creek 4 Hour Endurance

May 12, 2018

French Creek State Park, Elverson, PA

Jess 1st overall women, Joël 1st single speed

Originally, this weekend was supposed a 24 hour race in Pittsburg, One and Done. But due to this race being rescheduled about a week prior, we opted to head to French Creek instead. Not a bad choice, both Joël and I really enjoy that race course. Only kink in this plan...I also had a medical procedure scheduled the day before that could have hampered my race.

I went to bed the night before the Mid-Atlantic Super Series On the Rocks at French Creek race wonder if this might be my first ever "DNS" (did not start) or "DNF" (did not finish). 

The day before the race I had a nerve blocking procedure done to help treat chronic back pain. I was told I would be sore...but the day prior I could barely function. Another day to thank my co-workers; they made sure I took it easy, gave me a break, and helped me out throughout the day. Thanks to everyone! I hardly slept the night prior to the race due to the discomfort. Just moving hurt after the procedure...how was I supposed to race the next day? But I was determined to try to race; at least get out there to start the ride and see what happens. Race mentality and adrenaline are a wonderful thing...4 + hours later of muddy, rocky, rootsy fun I won the women's endurance race

As for Joël, he pushed hard for the win, making it a race until just about the end. He and the second place single speeder were battling it out until just about the end. Unfortunately a mechanical took out the other guy and Joël was able to secure his win. He just enjoys this course and was so happy to be out there giving it his all to take the win.

How did we celebrate our wins... with a stop for ice cream on the way home.

So that's it, a recap of the early season Spring races. They had their high and low points; some great moments and some less that stellar moments. The weather made for tough training, a ever changing race atmosphere, and sometimes just a general lack of motivation The only one in the household that is probably sad to see the snow go away is Cliff. He doesn't like the heat, he prefers the cold; as he shows us via photo. Now it's time to get back on schedule, get out of the Winter funk, and get back to riding bikes with 110% effort. Here's to upcoming Summer racing!

-Jess

Tour de Pocahontas- stage racing, friends, and amazing showers

Tour de Pocahontas


A weekend of stage racing, new and old friends, and amazing showers
GC Stage Race: Jess 1st overall female, Joël 1st overall single speed

Before I get into the details of the actual race, I have to mention the showers at Pocahontas State Park. Joël and I have used the showers at many state and federal owned camping establishments. Pocahontas State Park rates up there with some of the best ever.  This may seem trivial to many of you, but when riding bikes and living in the van a top-notch shower is a  luxury.  The showers at Pocahontas were spacious, heated, the water was hot, and the water pressure amazing. To give a little more heat, which really wasn't needed but I felt like being spoiled, I took the Little Buddy heater into the shower room also.  These amazing showers made an already excellent weekend just that much better


This was our first time racing the Tour de Pocahantas put on by RunRideRace.  Three races in two days; a marathon on Saturday then an individual time trial and cross-country on Sunday.  Riders could do each race individually but the main purpose of this race was to do it as a stage race; fastest time of all three races combined being the overall winner.



Courses for all three races were primarily single track on the trails within Pocahontas State Park, mostly on the Lakeview Trails.  Twisty and turny, with short punchy climbs. Mainly smooth but there was a good bit of roots and just a few rocks here and there.  Overall the trails were swoopy and fast. Definitely a place to go fast and have fun. Which we did.



The race was centered out of the Algonquain Ecology Camp. What a great place for a race venue! There was free camping for racers throughout the weekend which even included rustic cabins to stay in. Obviously we just stayed in our van.  There were flush toilets and as noted above the wonderful showers.  The race director provided food and beverages for those staying over Saturday night.  There was a campfire, games of cornhole, and everyone enjoyed the evening just hanging out and relaxing. Cliff made some new canine friends in the camp area and just plain enjoyed being off leash around the camping area.


This race brought together all of the reasons we ride and race.  There was tough competition for both Joël and I; we both had to ride hard and leave it all out there on the course to earn our wins.  The race courses were fun, interesting, and well marked. Great camping area and lodging for the weekend made being there for all three races convient and comfortable.  Hanging around with old friends and new friends is always fun. Full bellies of food and beverage without having to cook or go somewhere is always a great feature.  A race director who truly wants the racers to enjoy and have fun at his race made for a complete racing experience.




Results:
Joël: Overall single speed stage race winner: 2nd marathon, 1st time trial, 1st cross country
Jess: Overall women stage race winner: 1st marathon, 2nd time trail, 1st cross-country

-Jess