One-Eyed Dog: Why You Should Ride 100 Miles of the Rugged Ozark Trail and Eat Tater Tots

 

One-Eyed Dog

100 mile mountain bike race

Sept 24, 2022

Loki Events

Belleview, Missouri

Jess 1^st overall female

Joël 1^st single speed; 2^nd overall male

 

Do this race!

Challenging and fun course within a beautiful forest.  Great camping near the race site; with showers and real toilets.  Amazing aid stations and spectacular volunteers. A race director who really cares about racers and his events.  Super tasty post race meal.  Friendly fellow racers who after miles and miles on the trail together became friends.  Personal awards and cash payouts. Need there be more?

Why is it that some 100 mile races close out in minutes while others, like the Loki Events One-Eyed Dog, have just a select few racers toe the line?  We, the Nankmans, have never been able to figure that out. We have been to the big races that fill-up and close out in minutes and have been disappointed in the event.  In contrast, we have been to the smaller grass-roots events that struggle for entrants and have considered these to be some of the best events out there.

The One-Eyed Dog is an event that more people should attend, more people should race, and more people should enjoy. Every thing about it made it worth doing and worth returning to again.  If the 100 mile distance is not for you, there is also a 50, 24, and 12 mile race.

Course

As per the race description “some of the most rugged and unforgiving sections of the Ozark Trail. Just when you think you can catch your breath going down, you’re facing back up a hill grinding out over rocks and roots. Boasting the only 100 mile, 100% singletrack race in the USA and over 11,000 feet climbing, the OED100 mile is a grueling challenge that tests ones physical and mental toughness. Finishing in daylight is a right of passage for any cross country OED100 mile endurance racer.”  Well, that description by race director Matt Johnson is pretty much right on. 2022 was a two-lap event (some years it is one big 100 mile lap, some years two 50 mile loops).  With the exception of a few miles of rough gravel road half-way through the lap, the course was all single track. Challenging, techy, rocky and rooty, rolling ups and downs but every minute of it was awesome, fun, and beautiful single track. The course was well marked and easy to follow, even in the dark.

Accommodations

Any race that has camping on site is top-notch in the Nankmans book.  This just makes life so much easier.  The event is based out of Council Bluff Recreation Area, with registration, the start/finish, and post race awards and meal all there in one spot. The Wild Board Campground, part of the recreation area and just a few miles from the race headquarters, was open to races.  It is a fee campground and reservations had to be made but there were ample spots for racers.  Nice big sites with fire rings and tables, pit toilets, and easy access to the Ozark Trail made this a campground worth staying not only for the race but also for a few days before and after the event.  The campground did not have showers, however, the beach area where race headquarters was located did have showers available for racers to use.

Aid stations

Thanks to the amazing volunteers who manned the aid stations.  Every person was so friendly, helpful, supportive, and talkative.  In fact, they were always giving Joël and I splits on each other…I think they really wanted me to catch Joël!  They certainly were motivating me to go faster to get to him.  Each aid station was like a buffet, so much to offer.  Sports specific food along with all sorts of other snacks in addition to water and electrolyte drinks.  And of course I shall not forget to mention what Loki Events is know for at it’s aid stations- the best tater tots ever. These tots have some sort of spices on them that give just a little extra flavor and wow to they hit the spot. I couldn't wait to eat some.  Drop bags were transported to each aid station, so riders could have a personal bag at any or all of the aid stations of their choosing.

Fellow racers

Ever been to an event with grumpy riders shouting “rider back”  “passing” and people being snooty and non-friendly. Well, this race is NOT that.  All race distances used the same course, so there was potential for many riders of many different abilities and exhaustion levels to be out there riding together.  No matter when and were on the course, people were friendly, talkative, and supportive. I’ve never seen so many smiles from riders at one race. After the event at the post-race party and even the next day at the campsite riders were still all talking to each other, comparing stories of the event, and congratulating others on a ride well earned.

Race organizer, rider swag, post race events, awards

Matt Johnson and Loki Events is really there to make sure riders have a good time at an enjoyable safe event and on course where each and every racer really earns their finishers award.  Registration was a smooth and easy process where all riders were greeted in a personal manner.  Rider swag from both Loki Events and sponsors was given to each entrant.  No need to buy a race T-shirt like many events are doing these days, Loki Events gives you one. Post race party was a conglomeration of racers hanging out with volunteers and the race organizer.  Endless food, and I mean real food cooked right there on sight, was available to all racers and could be purchased for non-racers. Awards were done in a timely manner with a photo-worthy podium set-up.  Prizes consisted of personal race-specific awards, sponsor goodies, and a cash pay-out.

Individual races and personal account

Both Joël and I thoroughly enjoyed this race. Yes, it certainly was a challenge but that is what we like; raw techy trails through a beautiful forest. Hey, we are mountain biking so lets ride trails.  100 miles of single track is not joke and it certainly was a long day on the bike.  We both needed our Lupine Lights and rode the last hour or so in the dark.

Joël finished in 12:37, coming in first single speed on his Giant XTC and second overall male.

I was gaining on Joël but just couldn’t quite catch him, finishing in 12:50 enjoying the ride on my Liv Pique Advanced.  This earned me first place female and the course record; only two females have ever even completed the course and I am one of them.

Clifford aspect

The race and race venue are dog friendly, so that means Clifford was happily invited.  In fact, the race director even allowed a mid-race course departure (appropriately leaving the course and re-entering at the same spot) to check on Cliff. It was a little warm down there in Missouri but Cliff did just fine but I was worried and needed to check on on him. During his time on this trip Cliff traveled the Ozark Trail, swam in a lake in Daniel Boone National Forest, hit up some trails in West Virginia and ran along the historic C&O canal. What a well traveled guy he is.

 Other notes of interest

As usual, Joël and I turned this destination event into a vacation.  The race was the main reason for the travels but why not see some sights along the way. En route to the race was St. Louis and Gateway Arch National Park. On the way home post race we hit up Daniel Boone National Forest for some camping and hiking.  Stopped in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia for sight seeing and riding at the Arrowhead Bike Farm.  Camped for the night at McCoy’s Ferry in Maryland and rode the C&O Canal.  As per our trips, along the way were stops at breweries, distilleries, and some small local tourist attractions. Racing and the travels involved with it are always a good excuse to get out and see other places, experience different areas, and make new friends.

-words by Jess

-photos Joël, Jess, and Loki Events

-race support for the Nankmans by Saucon Valley Bikes

 

 

 

 

 

Adventures on Gravel in West Virginia- GRUSK Gravel Ride Up Spruce Knob Venti

 

GRUSK Venti ITT

Gravel Ride...Race Up Spruce Knob

220 miles of gravel with 19,000 feet of climbing including the highest peak in West Virginia, Spruce Knob

July 8-9, 2022

Davis area, West Virginia

 

After taking part in the 2021 140 mile version of this event, Joël and I were looking forward to returning in 2022 for the 220 mile version. The 140 mile course was everything we expected out of West Virginia, “wild and wonderful”,  with massive climbs, beautiful scenery and breath-taking views. Certainly easier on the eyes than on the legs but we were looking forward to coming back to ride farther and longer this year.  That’s how much we enjoyed the course, we wanted more. As far as the event it’s self, it can’t be beat for those looking for a weekend of camping, food, beer and distilled spirits, music, and just plain old fun riding bikes and partying with old and new friends.

Officially the 2022 version was not a race, it was a organized ride, and Gran Fondo. It was being considered an ITT, individual time trial, in which racers race against the clock, not other racers.  In addition, using GPS functions, riders in certain distances (100, 80, 50, and highlights divisions) riders were timed at various “segments” along to course to see who was the fastest at certain points. So sure, riders were not really racing each other in the typical format, but were still competing against the clock. Different from the other distances, the venti, 220 mile distance, was self supported. The course was not marked, riders had to have the route programed into their cycling computer to follow. In addition, no true race supplied aid stations were set-up. Riders were given a list of gas stations, stores, bike shops, spigots, and yes even a distillery along the way that could be used to restock food and supplies. Some riders opted to do the Venti as a bikepacking event, meaning they stopped to sleep overnight along the way via a campsite or hotel, others opted to ride straight through.

The 220 mile ITT event started on a Friday at 6am.  For riders wanting to do the 220 miler as a bikepacking weekend, they could start Thursday at 6am.  Joël and I along with many others were going for the no-sleep option.  Friday morning started off beautifully, dry and temperatures in the 50s F.  Riders gathered around eating breakfast and drinking coffee together until official ride start time and then we were all off.  All riders looked so happy and so excited to be there, one could tell we all just enjoyed being on our bikes and were looking forward to all those miles ahead.

 

There was so much to this course; and I honestly can’t remember it mile by mile. In fact, many of the features, roads, vistas, and highlights I didn’t even recall until watching the video footage and reviewing photos Joël and I took.  This course was amazing, beautiful, challenging, and fun. I am not going to go into much detail, watch the video to see the specifics. But here are some of the awesome and amazing experiences along the course.

-Green Bank Observatory-very huge, amazing, radio telescopes.

-the grassy downhill and single track after Green Bank; so much fun and perfect for the mountain bike enthusiasts

-all the amazing views and vistas from atop the mountains; 19,000 feet of climbing gives way to so many mountain tops

-animal encounters along and on the route: cattle, horses, snakes, toads, salamanders, black bear, owl, eagle, beavers, Sasquatch; luckily no Moth Man

-so many unique and historic bridges to cross; some of them rather sketchy

-the church pavilion, random spigots, Dollar General, distillery, Davis bike shop and even someone who set-up an aid station in their driveway that were the food and water refueling stops along the way

-the multiple mile (maybe seven, or even nine) gravel, chunky, grown in incline railroad bed; talk about speed and energy sucking

-the beautiful gravel roads along rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and mountain forests

-the chunky double track trails that may have been better suited for a mountain bike; challenging and fun none the less

-the wicked fast descents

-the huge puddles along the super rocky “road” just after Davis

-seeing all the riders in Davis, some who were stopped for burritos and dinner; it was like a GRUSK Venti party there

-riding up to the summit of Spruce Knob, the highest elevation in West Virginia, in the dark, rain, and fog

-the friendliness and comradery amongst the fellow riders; we were all in the adventure together

-the sketchy foggy descent down from Spruce Knob, this would be a super fast and super fun when it’s dry and light out, a bit slow and scary when it’s dark and foggy and raining

-the welcoming lights and volunteers at the finish line; it was so awesome to see this happy and chipper oasis of people cheering for us at 4am

 

The other aspect of this event that makes it top notch is not just the awesome riding but the spectacular venue. The Experience Learning center has all needed for a weekend of not just riding but also a festival-like atmosphere.  Great field camping with amazing sunrise and sunset views; there are also cabins and bunks available.  Flush toilets and hot showers.  The after party includes local beer and alcohol, a band, and post-race meal for riders.  A full meal plan for the entire weekend and for non-riders can be purchased.  The race organizers and volunteers are so helpful engaged, encouraging, and really want riders to have a good time.  This event is not just about the pedaling, it’s about a weekend of fun and comradery with fellow cyclists. Only downfall to this event…no dogs. Clifford had to stay at home.

 

So what about the personal experience of both Nankmans, how did Joël and I fair at this event. Well…let’s just say doing three ultra-endurance events in five weeks is not advised.  380 miles of UNBOUND XL in Kansas followed in three weeks by 24 Hours of Summer Solstice solo 24 hour mountain bike race followed two weeks later by GRUSK leaves legs tired, bodies sore, and minds not enthusiastic about riding. GRUSK for the Nankmans was a “one pedal stoke at a time” sort of event; to be honest there was also a fair amount of walking and even just stopping to sit and enjoy the views. The riding was amazing, we were just tired and sore and wanted a break. But we will definitely be back, hopefully on fresher legs and less tired minds, because this event is so freaking amazing!

 

Want to know what got us through?

Jess bike Liv Devote

Joël bike Merlin Sandstone

Lupine Lighting systems for both of us

Honey Stinger nutrition along with food and snacks from stores and stops along the way

Gatorade, water, and Cokes to drink

Support by Saucon Valley Bikes

Words by Jess

Photos by race organizers and video/photos by Joël

Awesome race by Travis and the Mountain Rides crew

UNBOUND XL. 350 Miles of Gravel Uncertainty

UNBOUND XL

350 mile gravel race

June 3-4, 2022

Emporia, Kansas

Jess 8th place female finish time 30 hour 4 min; Joël unfortunately scratched due to bike issues

Click on video above to watch

UNBOUND XL, 350 miles of gravel throughout the Flint Hills around Emporia, Kansas. What was planned as husband and wife bonding event turned into an uncertain solo experience.  350 miles can throw numerous challenges at even the most experienced riders but what happened to the Nankmans was not even considered a potential issue, until it was. There was no thought in our minds that both of us would not finish until one of us pulled out.  Did the other overcome the challenge?  Did the other persevere? Did uncertainty turn into victory?  Read on to find out.

Being that we were there for the experience, not racing for the top spots, Joël and I decided to ride together.  A great husband and wife bonding event.  I was worried about being out there all alone in the middle of the night in the middle of nowhere Kansas; what if I crashed, what if I got lost, what if I passed out, what if a cow or wild horse ran me over; what would I do?  Both Joël and I are novices at these long gravel events thus we didn't know what to expect.  I can fix basic mechanicals on my bike but Joël can fix more in-depth problems. I have a very basic GPS function my cycling computer that is challenging to follow and I tend to push the wrong buttons and make it not work. Due to these aforementioned circumstances we thought it would be fun and safe to ride together, so that is what we planned. Once again, even with proper planning and preparation even the best laid plans can go awry. Our bikes prepped at Saucon Valley Bikes, our Lupine Lights charged, and our Honey Stinger Nutrition packed and we were as ready to go as we ever would be.

 

The race began with about 140 riders congregated at the start line in the event expo area of downtown Emporia for the 3pm start on Friday. A neutral roll-out got riders moving through the throngs of cheering spectators, press, race volunteers and support.  The streets literally were lined with people, it was one heck of a send out. In a short time the paved road turned to gravel, riders spread out a bit and the racing started.  Joël and I were just riding along, enjoying the views of all the surrounding farm country and cattle fields and then “hiss……….” followed by the squishy feel of a flat tire for Joël.  Joël told me to continue to ride, he would catch me later.  30 min passed, 60 min passed, 90 minutes passed and still no Joël.  He should have caught back by now. Anxiety set in, I was beginning to wonder if I was on my own. The course now stopped at the first gas station stop, where I filled bottles and got a snack, and as I was leaving Joël pulled in. He said he flatted numerous times and would catch back up in a bit.  As I left the aid stop I joined with some fellow riders who were going the same speed and after some friendly chitchat we decided to ride together.  Joël found us in some time and explained the situation; he had a huge slice in both of his tires and was uncertain if the repair would hold; I should be prepared to finish the event without him. Well, within no time another flat and that was it, Joël was done. I stood there on the side of the road and cried. I was on my own. Could I do it solo?  Did I have all I need?  Could I fix mechanicals on my Liv Devote Advanced?  Did I know how to work all my gear and equipment? All of this went through my mind as I pedaled on. I knew I could complete the ride, of course I could, but I was not mentally prepared for what just happened.  A few more tears spilled out but I was determined, I was there to do this, I was there to ride strong and to finish.

Fast forward miles and hours later. I met up with other riders and found a great group of guys to ride with. They all knew about Joël having to pull out, and one guy even told Joël that he would watch out for me and help me if needed.  How wonderful, cyclists are all just such a great group of people, an amazing community. I was never alone during the entire overnight portion.  Pulling into the gas station stops was like arriving at an oasis, like arriving at bright and shining mecca coming out of the desolate darkness of the lonely night.  Riders were congregated all around, eating and drinking and sharing stories of the ride thus far.  They were offering each other food and drinks, encouragement, and help for mechanical and physical ailments.  Despite loosing my riding partner I knew I was not alone. I got this.  

 

The sightings of owls, coyotes, raccoons, deer, cattle, turtles, snakes, and frogs kept the night interesting and kept spirits high.  But not soon enough there was the welcomed sight of the sun coming up over the horizon.  I made it through the night without sleep and without any issues.   I was still riding strong and feeling good. I had found a good group of cyclists to pedal along with; all keeping each other company and passing the time with chitchat and candor.  But soon things would change, more dark moments would occur, and I would again wonder if I could get to the end.

The rain started.  Rumors prevailed about this race and the mud it entailed.  Thus far, about 250-300 miles in, there was no noteworthy mud. But that changed quickly.  In addition, the route had joined with the 200 mile racers. More people on course, more people churning up the ground, more people adding to the chaos. The mud was everything from watery milkshake consistency to thick and sticky like peanut butter.  Riding was a struggle, walking was a struggle, bikes became laden with mud and all of a sudden weighed what seemed like 100 pounds.  My arms hurt so much I could barely lift my bike, my back hurt so much I could barely push my bike, shoes became so mud covered it was like walking with concrete blocks on my feet.  Clipping my shoes into my pedals was darn near impossible.  All of this made forward momentum a struggle and progress slow.  Then, a mechanical issue, I could not shift gears, my bike became a single speed.  I was coasting the down hills, spinning as fast as possible on the flats to get some power, pedaling as far as possible on the uphill and then walking until the next downhill. I thought maybe it was the mud, I used water from my bottles…bad decision noted later…to clean the mud off. No improvement. Many people stopped to help me, no one else could figure it out.  Once again, the wonderful sense of community, riders helping others.  I was tired (by now I was awake for somewhere around 30 hours, riding for probably 24 or so) and at this pace even making the finishing cut-off may be a worry. I was done.  I cursed.  I cried.  I was ready to throw in the towel.  Another rider stopped and noticing my struggles gave me quite the pep talk.  “You made it this far, you have enough time to make the 3am cut-off, I can tell you are the type to finish no matter what”. Amazing what the few words of a stranger can do.  I ended my pity-party, put on my big-girl panties, and continued on.  And then a miracle occurred, after what seemed like a few more miles of single speed pedaling all of a sudden I had gears again. Guess the mud dried? Maybe Devine intervention? Who cares, I could shift gears again and that was all the boost I needed.

 

I started to pedal strong again. I felt invigorated, renewed, I could do this.  But then I realized I used all my water to wash off the mud.  The next water stop was 20 or so miles away.  It was now sunny, windy, and dry…and I had been doing a lot of walking and standing around fiddling with my bike out and exposed in those conditions.  Well, mental note for the future, don’t use your drinking water for anything other than drinking. I was worried about dehydration and I decided to take it easy as to not exert too much effort and make things worse.  I pedaled smoothly and easy until the gas station stop at mile 320.

 

All of the other gas station stops I moved through fairly quickly but at this one I stopped for awhile. I sat on the curb surrounded by water bottles, gatorade, pepsi, pringles, and fig bars.  And I consumed them all.  Some of the guys I was riding with also stopped and sat for awhile, it was a fun little picnic we had while talking about not only our ride but also sharing our life stories. Many spectators and locals were milling about the gas station and their motivation was appreciated. It was a struggle to get up again but I knew I had to keep pedaling.  The sooner I got back on the bike the sooner I would get to the end.

 

The final 30 miles seemed like the longest 30 miles ever. Part of me wanted to just push hard and get them done, hey 30 miles is usually just a quick morning ride before work.  Part of me also just wanted to just cruise along, too tired and sore and chafed and blistered to want to exert any energy. In addition, all that food and drink I consumed at the gas station was slogging around in my belly creating some interesting gut feelings. I needed it, I was dehydrated and depleted, but it was going to take some time for it to settle.  I took the middle ground. I just chugged along, nothing hard but also no lolly-gagging. I watched the miles tick away and was finally making that final turn into town.

 

The finish line was like a party. Sure, it was 9pm, all the pros for the 100, 200 and 350 mile XL had finished hours ago. It was now amateurs finishing.  A long finishing chute extended down the street through town. It was lined thick with people many rows deep cheering, giving high fives, ringing bells. Music was playing. Announcers were giving the names of finishers.  I crossed the line and realized it was done.  Happiness, frustration, pain and just sheer exhaustion were all going through me.  Race volunteers immediately surrounded riders giving them their finishers awards, asking what they needed, asking how they could help; I didn’t have an answer.  All I wanted to do was sit down and do nothing.  Joël was there and immediately found me; “take me to the van and our campsite” was all I could murmur.  And that is what we did. A hot shower, a belly full of food, and then I was asleep. I do admit  I wish I could have experienced the atmosphere and party at the finish line but at this point it was just not plausible.

 

My final finish time 30 hours and 4 minutes.  8^th women out of 21 starters. I am happy with my race.  I am still learning about gravel racing and these single-loop long distance events.  But the biggest hurdle I overcame….24 hours prior to the finish I learned I was on my own when Joël pulled out; not at all what we had planned.  I learned that yes, I can make it through- the highs and the lows of the emotions, the mental and physical struggles, the mechanical issues, I can do it.  I also learned that I really am not alone; it really is a community out there on the course, a community of those helping and encouraging each other so that we all get to the finish line.

 

Side notes about UNBOUND…

Emporia, Kansas is an amazing city and embraces the race. Quaint town with great shops and eateries.

The event has SO much to offer throughout the entire race weekend.  Group rides, expo area, welcome party and finish line party.

Lyon County Fairgrounds highly recommended for camping- tent, van, campers all welcome.  Flush toilets and primitive showers.  Just under two miles to the race area in town.

 

- words by Jessica

- photos by Joël and race photographer

- rider support for Jess by Liv Cycling, Saucon Valley Bikes, Lupine Lights. Honey Stinger

- race support by Enve and Life Time Media

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 Hours of Port Jervis. As per the race director- a day to remember.

 

12 Hours of Port Jervis

May 14, 2022

Jessica 1^st place solo women

Joël 4^th place solo single speed

StarCrawf Promotions (Dejay Birtch)

With support from Outdoor Club of Port Jervis and Action Bikes

Port Jervis, NY

As per the race director "We believe in putting on bike "races" that will provide you with a memorable experience. Come race or ride with us for a day to remember".  Well, this event certainly fit that description.  This certainly was an event that will forever be remembered; in both smile inducing and suffering ways.  As you read on prepared for a story filled with challenge and commitment, fun, and also quite a bit of pain and suffering. But why would it be easy, if it was everyone would be doing it. As you read on you may think "why" and you may think "this sounds terrible". But it really was a great event, just a tough ride.

Not often that I finish a race and am truly glad it is over. Not often that when Joël and I talk about “what was your favorite part of the race” and “what part was the most fun” do I really need to think hard to find an answer; the same goes for Joël.

 

12 Hours of Port Jervis was an awesome race, and I would recommend it to those that are in for a challenge. In the mind of the Nankmans it is one that certainly will always be remembered and talked about.  The location at Elk Bronx Park was top notch with amazing campsites for the weekend including a special area for solo riders directly on the course. The race organization left nothing out; easy registration, race swag, electronic timing, timely and well attended podium ceremony with impressive prizes, happy and cheerful volunteers, music and festivities during the race, and beer for racers. The course was a true mountain bikers dream; techy and challenging as most of the trails of the Port Jervis watershed are, making riders earn every mile on the course. But the course is also what made this race a well earned sufferfest; especially for solos.

 

Weather for race weekend could not have been better. Temperatures in the mid 70s made for a nice day of riding and it was never too chilly in the morning or evening to require clothing adjustments.  A rain storm mid afternoon did make for some sketchy riding on the wet rocks and roots but it was a nice way to cool down and a good excuse to walk every now and then to avoid crashing.

 

A hearty group of almost 50 solo riders registered for the race. Word spread quickly through the solo ranks after some people pre-rode on Friday that this race was going to be a tough one. The course was relentless, an almost never ending challenge of rocky, rooty, twisty single track. No significant climbs on the course, but still some good elevation gain in all the punchy climbs and the gradual ups and downs.  Each lap measured in at just over seven miles and around 1100 feet of climbing.  Most of the top solo riders were averaging 45-50 minutes a lap in the beginning, and over an hour by the end. Oh ya, the start is a Lemans, riders must run to their bikes.

It was evident by the half-way mark, if not even sooner, this was going to be a true test of mental and physical fortitude just to keep pedaling.  Legs were never the limiting factor, which many other solo riders agreed with, it was other parts of the body that were crying out from the constant concussing.  Hands, feet, backs, and butts hurt. As one solo rider put it “I am going to need my hands transplanted after this race”. Another solo rider said “I feel I am pretty good at suffering and always find something to enjoy about a race even when things are tough but this one is a challenge to enjoy”. But all in all it is a really good course and has the potential to be super fun; just not when riding for 12 hours straight. Joël and I both agreed our bodies felt more beat-up after 12 hours on this course than after many 24 hour races with much more more mellow courses. Thanks DJ for making us all work hard and seeing how much we are really willing to suffer.

 

But did the Nankmans have a good time? Of course. Sure, our bodies may have suffered and our minds tired from being on high alert the entire time. But it was great to catch-up with and ride with friends.  Post race was a party atmosphere; a good way to celebrate with others what we all accomplished and earned.  Overall the event had everything a rider could expect and want; riders just need to be ready to ride.

 

On a side note, the town of Port Jervis is well worth hanging out in pre/post event or even just in general to go there to ride the watershed trails and visit the area. A historic town with so much to offer in food and beverages.  Get something to eat and beer at the Fox N Hare.  Grab a bagel sandwich from Dr. Bagel.  Shop for outdoor gear at Action Bikes. Also worth visiting is the town of Milford, a few miles south.  Another town rich in history, food, and shopping. The historical society there has the flag Abraham Lincoln’s head was laid upon after being assassinated. And yes, it has been certified to be the real thing. 

 

Now, to circle back to the introductory paragraph.  What did Joël answer as the most fun?  He said he was enjoying watching the bright orange newts scamper across the trail; until watching once caused him to hit a tombstone rock and crash. He then muttered mother f’ing newts.  I most enjoyed looking at the beautiful little flowers along the trail until it hurt to much to move my neck and back to look around, then I gave up trying to see them. So yes there was fun, but to be honest the most fun was the final time through the timing tent and then immediately getting to drink a beer.

 

And to answer the question most people asked afterwards…will we race it again. With a “we must be crazy and gluttons for punishment” look on our faces, yes, the Nankmans will go back again to race this in the future.

- words by Jessica

- photos by race promoter StarCrawf Promotions and photographer Mow Captures #mowcaptures

- photos by Joël

12 Hours of Santos. It's not all about racing. Friends, family, and the forest.

12 Hours of Santos

More to racing than just riding; friends, family, and the forest

February 19, 2022

Jessica 1st place solo women

Joël within top 10 open men

Race by: Gone Riding Productions

Ocala, Florida

 

This blog report is not going to be much about the race.  Look back at previous Nankman Adventures in Cycling Blog reports for the details about the racing at 12 Hours of Santos. The race organization, the trails, the course remains much unchanged. And yes, it still has a gigantic trophy awarded to first place.  It’s a great early season race for us to travel to; a fun event with good riding and way better weather than in Pennsylvania in February.

But this year’s visit to 12 Hours of Santos had way more exciting and noteworthy items than the racing. It was filled with friends, food, family, and forest time.

Friends. Joël and I had the honor of one of our friends from Pennsylvania come to watch us race and cheer for us. She has family in the area and coordinated her family visit with some race spectating. She is not a cyclist, so this was really special to have her come watch, she even brought her family along.  Endurance cycling is not much of a spectator sport, and it is far and few between that Joël and I have people come to watch events, especially people who are not into cycling themselves.  Knowing a friend is there watching helped keep me pedaling strong and gave me something to look forward to. In addition to the racing, Joël and I met-up with this same friend and her family for food, beer, and hanging out after the race at The World of Beer. Once again, just such a good time to share stories about the race and relax afterwards with food and friends.

Family.  An Aunt and Uncle recently moved from Pennsylvania to The Villages in Ocala so while down there Joël and I planned a visit with them.  We spent time catching up with family and learning all about their new life in Florida.  We toured The Villages seeing all the community centers and activities they had to offer, had dinner and ice cream in one of the town squares, listened to a band and danced, played shuffleboard, and walked around the area. Great time visiting with family and wonderful of them to share their new life with us. And as par for the course in The Villages, Joël and I drove a golf cart around on the roads and paths throughout the community. 

Forest.  After friends and family the Nankmans headed to Ocala National Forest for some camping and riding. We stayed in a primitive dispersed site which meant it was really back to nature. No facilities, no electric or water, literally just a clearing in the forest; just the way we like it.  We rode gravel bikes throughout the forest and did some hiking with our dog Clifford along the river at Davenport Landing where we learned about the Native American culture that previously lived there and the early settlers along the river.  And yup, we saw a huge alligator along the road, but luckily it was while driving out of the forest on our way heading home.

So yes, the race was our reason to travel to Florida. But spending time with friends, visiting with family, and enjoying the forest were really what made the trip memorable.

Words by Jessica; photos by Joël