2022 Colorado Trail Race
Racing fear and finding hope
Preface
For those unfamiliar…
The Colorado Trail Race (CTR) is a solo, self-supported, ultra-endurance mountain bike race through the Colorado High Country. There is no entry fee, no aid, no support, and no prize for finishing. You might think of it as a “Cannonball Run” for mountain bikers, except it’s legal, and infinitely harder…
Weather Racer
Day 0 (Aug 14)
“Remember, the race doesn’t start till it rains.” Those were the last words of CTR un-organizer Jefe Branham before he sent us on our way at 4am Sunday morning. My race had begun 45 minutes earlier…
Cocaine Cheeseburgers
Day 1 (Aug 15)
Unzipping the tent door, I kneeled forward, straightened up, and let loose. “OUUUUCH!” I was immediately in the grip of bilateral hamstring cramps. I doubled over; still pissing; now into my tent.
White Flag Fiasco
Day 2 (Aug 16)
I woke to the sound of rain on my tent and a searing pain in my upper left chest wall. “Crap! I guess the bike did some damage after all.”
Recalibrating
Day 3 (Aug 17)
I shivered awake at 3am soaking wet. I’d left the ceiling fan on and had sweat through the sheets. So much for a “soft” night of sleep. I was actually glad for rough re-entry. “Last chance to harden the fuck up.”
Coming Home Sweet Silverton
Day 5 (Aug 19)
The first crack of thunder came at noon. It sounded like a bowling ball exploding the top of a mountain a few miles north. A quick glance in that direction revealed a swelling white wall surging up the valley like an angry tsunami…
Ride or Die
Day 6 (Aug 20)
My alarm went off at 2am. “Last day!” To my surprise John was still there. I asked if he’d spooned the weasel for warmth. He said “No,” but I knew this was bullshit. How else could the man have survived a night in a shower curtain at 11,500?
Hero Appreciations
(Written 2 days after my finish)
Two days ago, I hurt. Yesterday, I slept. Today, I am grateful. I want to take a moment to thank a few unsung heroes who made my rookie CTR attempt special. In semi-order of appearance…