What an Extra Lap Really Means at 12 Hours of the Hill of Truth

How the Nankmans Took the Top Spots; with Jessica Passing Joël for the Overall Win

Hill of Truth 12 Hour race
Haw Ridge Park, Oak Ridge, TN
Clinch Valley Trail Alliance
October 5, 2019

Jess 1st solo female and 1st overall solo rider
Joël 1st solo male and 2nd overall solo rider

Not only a race, this is a festival.  2019 was the 21st year of bringing together local riders for a day and night of comradery and riding. The heart of the event has always been getting people together to share stories, no matter what their age, background, or riding ability.  Typically there is a campfire, food truck, and beer.  Riders camp both the night before and the night after the race; with post race festivities being filled with food, alcohol and the "Goodwill Tour" where riders travel from campsite to campsite sharing stories about their ride.


The event includes a 12 hour mountain bike race, for both solo and team riders. Teams members typically include a mix of kids and veteran riders, novice riders through seasoned pro-level speedsters. Some teams are out to be competitive and others are there to have fun and party. Along with the 12 hour race, there is a Big Wheel race, kids race, and trail running race.

Haw Ridge Park, the weekend venue, has been an establishment in the mountain biking community for over 20 years. What started as ATV and motobike trails is now being worked upon and established as an IMBA trail system.  There are currently about 35 miles of trails that range from rough and rocky to smooth and groomed.  Some of the trails contain additional features like skinnies, jumps, bridges, and berms.  A skills park is being developed and a paved pump track is on the way. The trails loop about twisting upward and undulating downward along the lake edge.  Views of the lake are frequent along with passing old buildings and a active power plant can be seen in the distance. A paved green way trail cuts through the middle of the mountain bike trials, perfect for trail access or days when one wants to take an easy ride.  Just awesome trails overall with something for everyone.

So you may be wondering how we got to this race? It was already a long weekend for me.  Joël and I had the urge to travel. So why not go somewhere we have't gone yet and find some new trails to ride; and what better way to do that than enter a race.  After much internet searching for races, this one intrigued us and thus we added our names to the entry list.  With our bikes race ready via Saucon Valley Bikes and bodies ready via Saucon Valley Massage, Dr. Qureshi at St. Luke's Spine, and Balanced Acupuncture, we (of course our dog Clifford came along also) all climbed into the Nankvan and off we went.

We arrived at the venue the afternoon before the event.  There were already some tents set-up and a few racers on-site. After talking to other riders we learned where the course passed through the transition area, where the timing tent would be, and orientated ourselves to the course.  Finding a flat spot for sleeping in the van and a spot close enough to the course for our food, gear table, and awning is of the utmost importance for two self-supported solo riders.  We found the perfect spot and set-up camp for the weekend.

Race morning went as usual. Setting up our table with food and gear and prepping bikes as is the norm. Along the way we chatted with other riders and the race directors.  It was noticeable that others were not sure what to make of us; who were these people from Pennsylvania?  Did we know we were set-up right along the course?  Did we know about the trails and how to ride the "hill of truth?".  Everyone was extremely nice, talkative, helpful and inclusive.  But it was noticeable Joel and I were the unknown, the racers no one really knows about? Are they fast? Do we worry about them? Do they know what they are doing? Once it was ready for the race to get going at 10am, we prepped the van for Clifford for the day and headed to the race start.

As with all 12 hour races, this was a lap format.  Each lap being eight miles, taking on average 50 to 75 minutes per lap for us.  When passing through the timing tent electronic timing counted riders laps and this is also where team riders handed off the timing device to the next rider.  Joel and I had our pit area set-up just after the timing tent; a convenient area to grab a snack, change bottles, do bike maintenance, and any other race related things that were needed.

The course was eight miles of single track goodness.  A mix of terrain, there was a little of everything.  After leaving the transition area and riding on the pavement for a few minutes, the first bit of the course was a smooth switch back climb with one little rock garden.  A fun but a bit sketchy dry and loose descent followed.  The course then wove and meandered throughout the forest traversing fun single track with techy roots, tight turns, and punchy climbs and descents. Two powerline climbs, one about 1/3 of the way though and the other about 2/3 of the way through were the real challenges of the course. The first was a long, gradual climb that was an energy sucking spin. The second, known as the Hill of Truth, was a long and exposed powerline climb.  It was steep, washed out, with loose gravel and rocks.  With the exception of the team riders who could expend the energy and deal with the burn, this was a hike-a-bike every time.  After the Hill of Truth, the course was quite pleasant and super fun.  It was predominantly downhill to flat, just a few little climbs.  Coming to the end of the lap, the single track followed the lakeside giving beautiful views.  After circling a grassy field it was back through the timing tent and the lap complete. A perfect course for my Liv Pique Advanced, a bike that can do it all and do it all well along with making it all fun.  Joël reports that riding single speed made for numerous walking sections on the steep climbs but oh well, that is what happens when you only have one gear. He was was happy to have his Trust Performance fork to make the ride smooth and fast.

Besides an amazing course, what made this race great was the spectators.  Every time through the pit area people were cheering, cowbells were ringing, and support was everywhere.  But what was the best were the spectators out on the course.  Numerous places along the course people were camped out for just about the entire race heckling racers.  At the top of the Hill of Truth revelers gave riders that little extra oomph to ride harder.  The group at the tight right corner were always happy and supportive, always cheering.  A group of women at the base of the lake were always smiling and clapping. Photographers, people out walking, and other riders along the course always gave a hello and cheer.

As for the Nankmans, how did our races go? Both of us had a great start, riding strong, smooth, and clean.  We took our typical quick stops at our pit area, just to eat and grab a bottle.  But then the noon-time heat took effect. It was as if all the energy was sucked out of us.  I slowed down considerably, taking time at each pit stop to hold a cold towel on my neck and put ice into my sports bra.  The heat was most oppressive on the Hill of Truth, and it hit Joel hard there.  Hit hard meaning he literally hit the ground.  Heat exhaustion taking it's toll, the next time through the pit area he took an extended period of time to sit for awhile while covering himself with cold towels and ice to bring his body temp down.  Through these cooling techniques and slowing down a bit both of us were able to deal with the heat. As the sun started to set the temps cooled down and it was back to stronger and faster riding.  Soon it was time to put our Lupine Piko lights on, which is my favorite part of the race.  The sunset lap is always so beautiful as the sky changes colors and creatures come out. It always inspires me and brings back a little more energy and enthusiasm.  As the race came to a close;  Joël knowing he already had the win and still feeling the ill effects of the heat decided to opt out of a last lap. Even though I had the race won, I wanted to race until the end so I went out for a final lap. The rule being riders had to finish by 10pm; I started my final lap at around 8:15, more than enough time to finish even at an easier pace.  Glad I went out for this final lap because it gave not only solidified my overall female win it actually gave me the OVERALL solo win. I beat Joël by a lap, he finished nine laps for the overall solo male win and I finishing with 10 laps.

As the final racers finished, competitors and spectators gathered around the finish area cheering. Awards were done in a timely fashion just after the final riders came through.  Having awards done right away was great; no waiting around and it meant everyone was still there to cheer.  Cash prizes were given to solo riders; prizes and merchandise to team winners. Typically a bonfire, food, and alcohol would follow awards, but due to the dry conditions and high fire danger no bonfire or grilling this year.  Many people still stayed for the night sharing stories of the days events.

To summarize-good and fun course, friendly people, great race venue, substantial prizes, and an event put on by a good group for a good reason. Definitely an event worth recommending and attending.

- words by Jess
- action photos by ALM Photo
- still photos by Joël

A rocky end to the summer-Point Peter, Lucky's Revenge, Terror of Teaberry, Bearscat 50

A Rocky End to the Summer- On the podium at Point Peter Pounder, Lucky's Revenge, Michaux Terror of Teaberry, and Bearscat 50

Point Peter Pounder 4 Hour Race
August 11, 2019
Port Jervis, NY
Jess 1st overall women
Joël 4th single speed

Lucky's Revenge 50 Mile
August 17, 2019
Allamuchy, NJ
Jess 1st overall women (in fact,  the only woman to finish)
Joël 4th single speed

Michaux Endurance Series Terror of Teaberry 30 Mile
Michaux State Forest, Shippensburg, PA
Sept 15, 2019
Joël 2nd single speed
Jess 2nd overall female

Bearscat 50
Waywayanda State Park, Vernon, NJ
Sep 21, 2019
Jess 1st overall female
Joël 5th single speed

Back to back weekends racing on challenging, technical, super rocky courses two different times. What the heck were we thinking? As if one wasn't enough, we had to do two.


Lucky's Revenge 50 Mile at Allamucy State Park was, well, I can't even explain it.  Painful. Challenging. Rewarding. Stupid. Exhilarating. All those words come to mind.  It by far is the most difficult 50 mile race either Nankman has ever ridden; in fact after almost eight hours of riding it was almost as painful as a 24 hour race. But despite what may seem like negative things to some, it is already on the race calendar for 2020.

Put on by Hilltop Bicycles, this race is in remembrance of one of their teammates who loved the rocks and the challenges of Allamuchy. Lucky thought racers should challenge themselves and enjoy a nice long day out there on those rocks. Thus, the Lucky's Revenge race, a 15, 25, and 50 mile version was created.

Both Nankmans raced the 50 mile version, which was two 25 mile loops.  How was it? Tortuous. But also amazing.  Hurtful. But also fun.  Allamuchy is relentless, the technical riding is never ending. Rocks, roots, boulders, stream crossings just keep coming and coming. This course never gave riders a break, it was just non-stop technical East Coast riding. Perfect conditions for my Liv Pique Advanced, it's nimble actions made the technical sections ride well and the climbs as smooth as could be.

Just finishing was a challenge. For the 50 mile event, almost half the riders did not finish. In fact, I was on the podium alone because I was the only female to finish. Joel picked two heavy of a gearing and was relinquished to much walking, and thus finished 4th single speeder.

Best part of this race? The pizza afterwards.  In fact, I was handed an entire pie on the podium. Can't beat that, hungry racer winning a pizza!

This certainly was a challenging race but it was a great race.  A race held for a great reason and put on by a group of people who just love cycling and love racing. Registration and race start/finish went smoothly and on time, aid station volunteers were friendly and happy, and custom awards were given out.  This race hurt for many days after but the Nankmans will be returning.

The Point Peter Pounder put on by Starcrawft Productions and DeJay Birch is a race that exists purely for the fun and the challenge of racing. As a part of the H2H series for both XC and endurance, racers come from all around the mid-Atlantic region to take part in the series and accumulate points for year end awards.

This is a tough course that puts even the most experienced riders to the test.  The watershed trails are a never ending roller coaster of rocks, short ups and downs, and twisting and turning switchbacks.  This is what makes them fun and also what makes them beat up racers, especially when racing for over four hours. Joel's Trust fork was perfect for these conditions, making the rocks seem as smooth as can be while my Liv clothing and gear held up well to the beating it was taking over the long and challenging course.

What a well done race.  Course markings are spot-on, volunteers friendly and helpful, and the awards venue can't be beat- the flag pole at the top of the Bronx-Elks park overlooking Port Jervis and the spot where PA, NJ, and NY all meet. Post race travel into the historic Port Jervis for some good company, food, and drinks.

As for individual races, I was feeling good and came away with the women's win. Joël was having not the best day and finished 4th single speed. In fact, I even passed him a few miles from the finish and beat him fair and square.

The Volvo Michaux Series is always a local favorite.  Pure back country racing at it's finest. These trails are rugged, untamed, unkempt, and pure fun and pure pain at times. Rocky and technical, walking can expected.  Rhododendrons, ferns and other various vegetation line the trails, adding to the beauty and rugged feel.

Terror of Teaberry is the final race of the three race series throughout the year. It is touted at the most technical, the most challenging. And it certainly is.  There is a 10, 20, and 30 mile division.  30 miles may not seem like much, but the faster racers take 4 to 5 hours; others taking 6 to 7 hours. Both  Joël and I raced the 30 mile distance.

This really was a race for both of us.  Not a huge field of racers, but a fast field of racers.  Both the single speed and women's category had local top-notch riders. Both Joël and I had some back and forth battles during a good portion of the event; making everyone work hard and making it a race. In the end both Nankmans ended up second place.

Post race is just another reason to attend these races.  Competitors and their friend/family hang around and cheer for other racers.  A number of people sit in chairs and line the finish of the course.  Food is included with entry; it is delicious, hearty, home cooked food.  Also included is beer, a keg is there for ample filling.  Another thing to make this an even more awesome is that free camping is available in the race parking lot before and after the race. Cash prizes and merchandise are awarded to category winners and series champions at the end of the year, just another great bonus for attending

So if you like challenging and fun races, good food, and comradery the Michux series of races are worth putting on your event schedule.  But be prepared for some tough riding; full suspension is recommended or if you are crazy to ride a hardtail put on some chubby tires like Joël did.

Always a favorite of ours, Waywayanda and the Bearscat 50 course is just a super fun place to ride. Rock garden after rock garden with minimal major climbs; it is a race that is primarily all single track that is technically challenging but has amazing flow and rideability. Put on by Black Bear Cycling, this group picks out and the best trails this park has to offer and puts on an amazing event.

Besides an awesome course, many rider-friendly amenities make this an event worth attending.  Free camping is available at the race venue the night prior to the race. Post race food is provided for racers; always a hearty meal.  Awards are cash prizes and goodies from sponsors.  Many riders hang around afterwards swapping race and ride stories.

The race offers a 25 and 50 mile division; one lap for the 25 milers and two laps for the 50 milers.  Being two laps, 50 milers can leave nutrition and hydration at a neutral place near the start/finish for grabbing mid-ride.  In addition, a neutral aid station is available mid-lap. As mentioned above, the course is rocky and technical but a fun rocky and technical. Everything is rideable and with speed and power and it all flows well. There are no sustained climbs, just numerous short and steep climbs, many being strewn with rocks.  Views of the forest, lake, old iron forge buildings, and camp grounds make for interesting sights along the way. This is just a fun course to ride!

As an added bonus, wildlife is not uncommon. It's not unusual to see bear and rattle snakes along the course!  Scary but interesting.  Both Joël and I have seen bear numerous years and one year I saw multiple rattlesnakes.

Joël was up against a stacked single speed field. Having a great race but racing really fast people he was only able to ride his way to 5th place.  His Giant XTC and Trust Performance fork were the perfect ride for this course,  helping maneuver the rocky sections with power and speed.  I had a tough day but was still able to put in a good enough effort for the win.  Despite pushing hard I just couldn't get to my normal race intensity and felt just wiped out at the end.  But most important I made sure to enjoy the day and enjoy the ride, which is impossible to do when riding my Liv Pique Advanced.  It's just a fun and amazing bike to ride.

So that's a wrap.  Almost 200 miles per person of riding some of the gnarliest single track the east coast has to offer. Thank goodness for good bikes, good gear, and the support of Saucon Valley Bikes to keep our equipment going.  How about us?  After all these rocks Saucon Valley Massage and Balanced Acupuncture is what keeps our bodies going.

- words by Jess
- input by Joël
- photos by both of us

48 Hours of racing...Summer Solstice and Hardcore 24

48 Hours of the not so good, the good, and the awesome.

24 Hours of Summer Solstice
June 22-23, 2019
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Jess 2nd overall solo women
Joël very back of the pack


Hardcore 24
July 27-28, 2019
Naples, New York
Jess 1st overall solo women (and second place overall solo rider)
Joël 1st overall solo men


24 Hours of Summer Solstice; by Chico Racing

Advertised as North America's largest 24 hour mountain bike race, it really does live up that description.  Somewhere around 2000 riders, along with their friends and family, fill up the Albion Hills park and trail system area.  Tents and campers line the course, with people hanging out and even partying all weekend long. What a festive event!  Luckily the solo area is off on it's own and is quiet and relaxed, thus solo riders can have some down time if needed. But don't think the solo riders are introverts, the solo rider area is filled with many friendly racers and support crew and we all get to know each other. It's such a comforting feeling to know one's new neighbors and friends are there to help if needed.


The course is fun, not too technical, and has no major sustained climbs; just many short punchy ups and downs. It's a flowy and inviting course for a 24 hour race, but don't be fooled, once fatigue sets in there are areas on the course that become quite difficult. Laps average 60 to 90 minutes for Joël and I.  There are always other riders out on course, which is a blessing and a curse. It's nice to always have others around to talk to and assist if needed. But it also means there is going to be the need for passing and getting by, which is not bad when solo riders are fresh and coherent. But once the night lap ensue and the super speedy team riders are zooming around it can get a little stressful for the solo riders. Most team riders were pleasant about it but some were a little pushy in their need to pass. Please guys, just relax for a second and wait until there is a safe place to pass. Lots of deer out at night and lots of mosquitoes. One year at this race I saw coyote, none this year.


As for the Nankman's personal experiences, this race did not go quite as planned for both Joël and I. As a friend of ours said, we lost our "pushers" for this race. Somewhere around midnight both of us just stopped. We don't know why. Physically we were tired but no more so than any other 24 hour race. Mentally we were just not in it.  Joël went to sleep and decided he was calling it, no more racing for him even after he woke up. I slept for a few hours and when waking up I decided to go out and continue riding. So not quite what I wanted, just a long extended nap in the middle of the night.  While I was sleeping I fell from second to third but once I started riding again I caught the other female rider and moved up a spot and was able to hold onto my second place.  Joël was not last, I guess not to bad considering he pulled out early.


So why did we loose our pushers?  Stressful weeks at work leading up to the race?  A long drive to this race on Friday?  90 minute laps mess with our hydration/nutrition strategy a bit (we like to eat/change bottles every hour). Who knows, we will probably never know.  All we can do is regroup and recharge for the next race.


Personally not the best race for Joël and I, not quite what we expected.  But still a race we would recommend, come back to, and enjoyed.


Hardcore 24

Redemption, retribution, revenge upon ourselves was the outcome for this race. After less than stellar performances at Summer Solstice both Joël and I wanted to have good races here.



Hardcore 24 is one of, if not the ultimate, favorite 24 hour race of ours.  Great course, relaxed and fun vibe, race director who really wants people to enjoy the event.  The venue is racer friendly and the little town of Naples is a great place to also tour/vacation in before and after the event.


We arrived mid afternoon on Friday which allowed ample time to set-up and then relax, something we wanted to make a key feature, having time to relax pre-race.  We chatted with fellow racers and friends, and just enjoyed the vibe and the pre-race happenings. Race morning came along with more time to put our feet up and leisurely set-up our pit.  Overall just a relaxed and friendly feeling at this race.


The course is amazing!  Super fun and challenging, just like the Nankmans like.  Overall technical, no boulders or huge rock gardens but just overall rocky, rooty, chattery and babyheads everywhere.  A few false ups and downs are mixed in with short and steep climbs and descents.  Many of these became hike-a-bikes by the end of the race.  There are some nice flowy sections through fern gardens and a really fast and fun descent with some little jumps and berms on the back half of the course.  But my favorite part of the course- what it looks like at night. Light displays marked each mile and woodland creatures were everywhere.  Slugs, snakes, toads, deer, opossums, skunk and mice scurried about.


So how did this race turn out? Much different than Summer Solstice.  Different how?  We pushed through all of those tough moments.  At times just walking was tough, and when we got really tired we did a lot of walking. Hey, any forward movement is good.  Scrapes and blood from crashing were quickly forgotten about.  Back pain that required laying on the side of the trail was overcome.  Nausea and gastrointestinal upset were unpleasant but did not stop us.  Saddles sores formed that were big enough to require their own zip code.  As Joël put it "it feels like someone put a bunch of nails in my handlebar grips and I am holding onto all the pointy ends"; hand cramps made holding onto the bars darn near impossible but we just kept riding.  Feet felt tingly.  And by the time it was all said and done race time of 23 hours, almost 22 hours of moving times, and almost 36 hours with no sleep. Now that's the way to ride a 24 hour race.



Just what an awesome event.  Great people all around; racers, spectators, and race personnel. Fun and challenging course and good venue.  Just an overall awesome vibe. And the bacon, crispy bacon.  Someone was making bacon on the grill during the morning laps and handing it out to weary racers. What a spectacular trailside treat.


Once the aches, pains, and soreness wore off Joël and I were already discussing our plans for next year's event.


- written by Jess
- input from Joël
- photos by us and Apex Race Photography

Going down to the Hoo Ha-Massanutten Hoo-Ha

Going down to the Hoo-Ha
Massanutten Hoo-Ha long course race
Keezletown, VA
June 8, 2019

Joël 2nd single speed
Jess 2nd overall female


This race has intrigued Joël and I for years. First off the name, how often can you say you raced "down in the hoo-ha"?  He he.  And also the event it's self...we have heard reports of it being raw, backwoods single track; the type of courses we like and thrive on.  It has typically occurred on the same weekend as another race that we ALWAYS attended, but that regular race happened to be canceled this year so off to the Hoo-Ha we decided to go. A fun name and a course of our liking sounded like it would be a good adventure for the Nankmans.



Camping was allowed directly on race site, another bonus about this event.  All three Nankmans climbed in the van and headed down the afternoon before the race. We arrived at the race site to find one of our other van traveling friends Scott was there and we made a little "vanlife city" for the night.  Dinner was made and enjoyed while watching the sun set and the fireflies come out all the while with good conversation and catching-up with a friend.  It's not only the riding and racing we enjoy; it's the experiences, the ambiance, and the friends it brings into our lives.


The next day racers started pulling in and all sorts of other friends we hadn't seen for a while were there.  It's always great times catching up with people. Other racers from Trans-sylvania Epic were also there (which ended just the weekend prior), and it was interesting to compare and contrast how recovered our legs and bodies were.  Just before the start potential disaster struck- I was warming up and realized my fork was not working!  Yikes! Luckily Joël with his excellent mechanical skills was able to fix it. Whew, sigh of relief knowing this was going to be a rocky course, I needed a well working fork.


The race was all it was expected to be. Big climbs, lots of rocks, and sketchy descents.  There was a fair amount of walking, both up hill and down hill.  There were some parts of the course that just plain sucked, where even walking was a challenge.  Due to this, at times, lots and lots of swear words came out of my mouth. Little did I know after a rash of slips and slides, almost crashes, and lots of cursing I was in front of a high school racer during all my potty-mouthing. Sorry to whom ever that was for setting a bad example of improper language.  But on the flip side, other parts of the course were awesome, like the purpose built single track that was in conjunction with the cross-country race course. This was super fun, flowy but rocky, and had some great places to catch air.  It was definitely a course that brought out all the emotions; some cursing, some almost crying, along with hooting and hollering and smiling.  After all was said and done it was a challenging but rewarding course.



But what made this event really worth it?  The post-race happenings. With multiple races going on, there were many racers of different abilities, ages, and racing categories hanging around together post race.  Food was supplied to racers and the burgers hit the spot!  Awards were done at a central location with a awesome podium display and many racers and spectators stayed to watch.  Cash was awarded to some races, prizes to others.  It was great to see so many people just hanging out, talking, and enjoying the day post race.



A race I would recommend but be ready for it!


- Jess (with input from Joel and Clifford)

April showers bring May rocks-IIGO Relay, Rattling Creek, Bakers Dozen, French Creek

April showers bring May rocks
IIGO MASS Relay, Rattling Creek, Bakers Dozen, French Creek on the Rocks


IIGO MASS Team Relay (but ridden solo by the Nankmans)
Marysville, PA; April 7, 2019
no results for this race, just a fun event

Rattling Creek Off Road MTB Marathon
Halifax, PA; April 14, 2019
Jess 2nd overall female
Joël 2nd single speed

Bakers Dozen 13 hour
Leesburg, VA: April 27, 2019
1st overall solo women Jess
2nd overall open men Joël

On the Rocks at French Creek 4 hour
Elverson, PA: May 11, 2019
Jess 1st overall women
Joël 1st single speed

It was a fun filled Spring with many of the Nankman's favorite races.  We had done all of these before, liked them tremendously, and were looking forward to racing them again. Many are Spring time classics in the Mid-Atlantic mountain bike racing scene , getting riders together again for racing, fun times, and comradely after the long and cold winters.

IIGO MASS Team Relay (5 hour)
MASS stands for Mid-Atlantic Super Series, and this race officially kicks off the race season for this organization. Held at a private farm, the three-ish mile course is meant to be fun and inviting, but also have just enough technical stuff to challenge the seasoned racers.  It it primarily a team event but a select few, like Joël and I, do the five hour event as solo riders. We look at it as a way to get in a good day of training at a fun event where we can chat with and ride with all of our friends.  There are no true results for this event, riders are ranked via a strange and never really understood handicap system.  Never does a five hour race go by so quickly...riding with friends, being heckled and cheered for by fellow racers, and the excitement of seeing others after a dreary winter makes the miles just tick by.

Rattling Creek Off Road Marathon (50K)
The past few years this race has had terrible weather; cold, rainy, sleet and snow, windy; just something not fun to race in. Sure, Joël and I still raced in those conditions but we were not excited about it, in fact it was dreadful.  So this year we decided that we would wait until race day to register; we would wait and see what the weather report was and make our decision based on that.  Race day came along and it was a beautiful, the sun was shining and the temperatures warm so off to Rattling Creek we went.  What more can I say about this race than rocks...rocks, rocks, and more rocks.  For those that like technical single track this is a race for you. This course just make me smile from ear to ear and has me always looking forward to the next trail and the next single track.  But besides the race what else makes everyone smile at this race- the post race food.  Food is provided by Friends of Wiser and it is amazing!

Leesburg Bakers Dozen (13 hour)
Unpredictable is probably the best way to describe this race. It has been cold and raining.  One year there was so much mud the race was cut short. Last year the race was rescheduled due to snow and then the re-do date was hot and dry.  This year is was beautiful, sunny, and the course was almost perfect hero dirt. Just a wonderful day to be on the bike.  The solo competition at this event is always intense, bringing strong racers from all over the mid-Atlantic area.  But at a race like this the key is perseverance, to keep a steady pace and just ride and ride.  Both Joël and I were very happy with our efforts at this race, we were able to keep a strong pace and to keep it steady. We feel this is always a good training race to get into the rhythm for upcoming 24 hour races. As an added bonus, we enjoyed the weekend away with some vanlife adventures along the Appalachian Trail and in Harpers Ferry.

On the Rocks at French Creek (4 hour)
Another no-miss favorite of the Nankmans.  This course is just so much fun! Many of our friends and riding buddies also race, so it's a great time just riding along and being able to talk with others makes for a fun race. As the name implies, this is a technical course, with some intense rock sections. It also has a few fun bridges, speedy gravel roads, and a steep hike a bike (OK, maybe ride-able by a select few). During the four hour marathon, three different XC races also take place, which means the course can get crowded but also gives more people to chase down, out ride, and race against.  Many other Saucon Valley Bikes racers also compete which means hanging around in the team tent post race enjoying food, beer, and conversations with friends and fellow racers.  Always a good time at this event.

Pat's Peak Mountain Bike Festival and Race- On a Whim Lets Drive to New Hampshire

Pat's Peak Mountain Bike Festival
6 Hour Endurance race
June 8, 2019
Hennicker, NH

This was a last minute addition to the Nankman race schedule.  A race Joël and I usually do this particular weekend was canceled.  A friend brought to our attention the Pat's Peak race specifically due to the fact it has a 24 hour event, thinking we would we interested in it.  Since we already had a 24 hour race planned two weeks after Pat's Peak we decided something shorter for this date would be more appropriate. Pat's Peak also had a 6 hour race which would allow us to get in a good day of racing and training and would enable us to scout out the venue for potential 24 hour racing in the future.  So after much discussion, at 7 am on Friday morning we decided that evening after work we would drive to New Hampshire for a race the next day.

The event was advertised as the Pat's Peak Mountain Bike Festival Weekend; and it truly was a weekend of cycling events.  On Saturday there was a 6, 12, and 24 solo and team races. On Sunday cross country and downhill racing.  Kids races were also included that had some awesome skills features.  Live music and vendors were set up throughout the area.  Held at a ski resort, camping was allowed pretty much anywhere on site, with many camp sites directly along the course.  The resort amenities were open, having a restaurant and bar available for food and drinks during the weekend. In addition, one of the best things a race can offer, there were flush toilets and hot showers.

The course for the endurance and cross country events was the same.  Measuring in at just over 7 miles with almost 900 feet of climbing per lap. That's a fair amount of climbing per mile, but what can one expect at at ski resort being that it's on a mountain.  The course was pretty much all single track; challenging technical single track. The course started with tight, steep technical switch backs.  The middle of the course included twisty and rolling single track with some gravel road and grassy sections interspersed here and there. The last section of the course was primarily down hill, including a fast technical descent. The trails were quite rocky and rooty, which is just what Joël and I like.  The resort puts a lot of effort into their trails, having built numerous bridges all over the course at muddy areas and even built a tunnel for the XC/endurance course to go under the ski slope/downhill trail. Two aid stations handing out water and snacks were passed four times during the race. The course marking was adequate and mile markers helped keep track of where one was. The race directors and staff we friendly, courteous, helpful and socialized with racers during and after the event.

So what is our personal experience of this race?  Awesome venue and amenities.  Joël and I were able to park our van close to the course in a somewhat secluded and shaded area which was perfect for Clifford. Cliff could just wander around and hangout in the forest, which is what he enjoys.  We had some friendly neighbors who were also racing and camping for the weekend.  The race was challenging, pushing hard for six hours beat us up.  Powerful climbing, working hard through technical sections, and bone jarring descents hurt everything. There was just no where on this course to take it easy.  It was a tough but fun course, demanding but rewarding.  And we must mention, there are fast people up north!  In the solo womens field the first place women took the lead right from the start and all I could do was try to keep her from getting too far ahead; its a race, you just never know what will happen.  The third place women and I battled it out for a bit, I was able to eventually pull ahead for the second place spot.  In the singlespeed field Joël had many super fast guys to race against.  After racing hard the final lap, Joël took third place.

Awards were done on the deck overlooking the ski resort, a unique venue for awards that made for great photos.  Prizes included medals and many items donated by sponsors.  After the awards, Joël and I treated ourselves to well deserved beer at the pub, where many competitors and race staff were hanging out talking about the day of racing.  That's always a great thing, when people hang around after a race, it makes the event fun and supports a sense of comradery.  We slept onsite in the van after the race and on Sunday went hiking with Cliff at the resort while doing some cheering for the solo 24 hour racers who were on their last few laps. The only negative things we can say about this weekend- if you go to New Hampshire bring insect repellent, the mosquitoes were terrible.


Pat's Peak is a race we definitely recommend and will on our schedule in the future; just a question of the 6, 12, or 24 hour event.  The atmosphere, vibe, and all the little extra perks were amazing.  As a 6 hour race and cross country the course is perfect, as a 12 and 24 hour race one has to be prepared to go slow and put easy gears on your bike.

- Jess and Joël

Smiles, Fun, and Singletrack- Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic 2019

Smiles, Fun, and Singletrack- Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic (TSE) 3 Day Stage Race
May 24-26, 2019
State College, Pennsylvania


After five or six times (Joël and I honestly can't remember how many years) doing this race as a five and seven day stage race, I didn't want to go back.  The last few times I raced I didn't enjoy it. The weather was terrible, I had bad days out there, the courses were boring, and the atmosphere just not fun.  When I was there I dreaded getting on my bike everyday, I just didn't want to do it. I didn't want to go back.


Due to the above, I wasn't entered this year and was not planning on entering, I was looking forward to a Memorial Day weekend filled with picnics and parties.  But the new race director, Ryan, contacted me about the race. After much arm twisting and perseverance, I reluctantly entered the three day race. Between work and family I just couldn't swing the five day, and besides, with how worried I was that I would dread my time out there I didn't want to commit to five days of riding, I could muddle my way through three days no matter what.


So there it was, TSE added back into the race schedule. But only for me.  Joël did not want to race, so he volunteered to be course sweep. That meant that every day, he rode the course following the last rider taking down course markers and telling volunteers at the aid station and road crossings that there were no more riders coming.  A casual way to still ride the course everyday.


From here I'm going to split the TSE experience into two parts- riding and social aspect. Those are the two reasons Joël and I went back to TSE year after year; for awesome riding and fun, memory making social times. They are two very different things, but make the time at "single track summer camp" what it is.

Riding

Day 1- RB Winter State Park (30 miles)
In the past RB Winter made me cry. It just sucked all the energy out of me. Every rock, every root, every gravel climb was dreadful.  This year RB Winter was a magical, mystical wonderland. The course was technical but yet flowy, the climbs long but not dreadful.  Soft green moss covered the trails, green ferns lined the forest, and babbling brooks were heard everywhere.  I just smiled my way through the entire day, no crying this time.  The local trail club did a great job working on these trails, definitely the best RB Winter course yet.  I ended the day leading the women solo three day race.



Video from dirtwiretv of RB Winter:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Utwh9eCLAYQ

Day 2-Tussey (32 miles)
First off, Tussey Mountain Trail is my favorite ride ever.  So I was looking forward to this day on the bike.  There was more road than I would have liked to get over to Tussey, but it gave me a chance to chat with fellow riders.  I'm not the best on the road so I just pedaled along until hitting the ridge on Tussey, then I let loose.  Oddly enough, we were riding Tussey in the opposite direction than usual, a direction I had never ridden it. This turned out to be a pleasant ride, the most challenging rock gardens were ridden downhill.  I just love that trail. I powered along riding strong on Tussey and then onto Longberger and Three Bridges.  I even stopped to session a rock garden after Three Bridges, hey, I may have been the race leader but I still want to have fun and learn from my ride. After some awesome single track it was road and double track back to camp. This day solidified my lead in the three day solo women field.


Video from dirtwiretv of Tussey:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3bClGSYlmk


Video of me being silly on Three Bridges:
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx8CT4wl7FK/

Day 3-Bald Eagle (around camp) (18 miles)
The last day is typically a shorter day and utilizes the mountain biking and moto trails around camp.  My legs felt a little tired from all the hard work the previous day on Tussey and since I had a decent lead I figured I would take it easy today and just enjoy the day.  I rode hard and had fun on the technical trails and pedaled easy on the climbs and gravel roads.  The infamous tire ride was avoided this year due the back part having a big wheel-grabbing hole; but many people still tried it and many crashes happened. Some new trails were added into this day, they were the enduro section, and honestly I walked most of them. And in talking to others I'm not the only one.  Walking sections aside still a fun day on the trails. After the third day of riding I solidified my open women three day win (and overall top lady out of all the three day women) along with winning the three day women enduro component of the race.

dirtwire.tv video of final day-listen for my monologue at the end:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW3a100QhXI


Summer Camp Vibe

Lacking the last few years at TSE was the summer camp feel, the fun and social vibe.  Maybe it was the weather that kept people inside. Maybe it was hard racing and people just wanted to relax. Who knows but I missed it.  This year there definitely a bit more of a camp feel than prior.

With registration, all riders got dinner daily. This was a nice way to bring people together.  During dinner was daily awards.  After dinner was camp games like foot down and the planned wheelie competition (but that was canceled due to weather). Joel and I spent the weekend staying in the van in the communal camping field, in which we had friendly neighbors both some we already knew and some new ones we just met.  A nightly campfire at a local camper was our favorite way to spend the evenings.  Many other racers stayed in group cabins within the scout camp, we visited some friends there for good conversation and adult beverages. We even had a friend come volunteer and hangout with us for the day. The summer camp vibe was definitely there.

How did Joël feel about his time at TSE. He reports it was long days but he had a good time.  Some times he rode with another volunteer, other times he was on his own. He helped with bike mechanical problems, hung out with other volunteers, and rode his bike.

So in review, TSE 2019 was a good time. I smiled my way through everyday, enjoying every turn of the pedals.  I raced hard and it paid off.  I had a good time catching up  with friends and sharing stories of the day with other riders.

Special thanks to all the people behind the race; the race director, the volunteers, the Davidson's and their awesome aid station, BEMBA for making RB Winter trails amazing, and all the other people who were there making sure things went as they should.  Credit to Saucon Valley Bikes and Liv Cycling who keep me going.

- Jess
- TSE photos credit Bruce Buckley
- video credit Tom Parsons dirtwire.tv