10 Months Later...

Tomorrow is the 120 mile Gravel Pursuit, I have the same feelings that I did ten months ago before my first Fat Pursuit. What in the heck am I doing, why? Then, the Fat Pursuit was one my favorite and by far hardest day on my bike. Conditions were challenging to say the least. The Gravel Pursuit weather outlook is almost as grim as it was the Fat Pursuit. Why I am excited about tomorrow? Maybe my screws are loose or I have extra coocoo in my clock. After the Fat Pursuit last year, I was so inspired. I saw and felt something I do not often feel. I saw how resilient humans can be. I am not sure how many days I biked but I only skied two days. I had friends texted me, it snowed three feet you must be skiing, nope I went for ride.  I rode to grow my resilience. In August, I moved in with my sweetie (who I met at the Fat Pursuit 😊), the move took more than I expected. My motivation to ride was very low. I started to question this Pursuit, would I be able to do it? Should I do? My last race did not go as planned and took me month to recover.  Last week, it snowed over a foot in the mountains. Snow typically means skiing. A group of us were getting ready to go ski, my heart was not excited to ski. Mike asked if I would like to go for a fat bike ride. My heart instantly lit up. As I pulled water bottles to fill I grabbed my winter ones and I started to dance with joy. That was the moment I knew that I was ready for this challenge. Tomorrow without a doubt will challenge me to the core but I know it will make a better person. 

Bridges

Bridges

I am going to be honest, riding bridges freaks me out. Years ago, I was on climbing and biking trip in Squamish and Whistler. My friend was new to riding, we found ourselves on trail with lots of bridges that were close to the ground. Most bridges I walked. I think as the day went on I walked more and more. I regressed in my bridge fear. I get in my head about certain features, such as bridges or creek crossings. When I see a bridge my gut reaction is negative. When I do ride a bridge today, I ALWAYS think don’t fall off or it is going to really bad. There are too many bridges in the Tetons, which is mostly good. The downside, it is skill that I can ignore. Over the years I have gotten a bit better, I ride many bridges but I am still freaked out. Shark’s Belly trail has a few bridges. There are two bridges that are easy and the third is long split log bridge (which is sketchy to walk). Last summer I told myself I would work on riding the bridges. I made up silly excuses  not work on my goal such as I am working a backpacking trip in 4 weeks, I can’t get hurt. I never really tried to ride these. Last week, I rode Shark’s Belly for the first time this season. I approached the split log bridge, felt great, and rode with confidence! I hooted and hollered at the end.  I rode the other two bridges fine! The small yet steep and muddy creek crossing I walked, progress. 

What I have learned, I am working on the negative voices in my head. Keep working on visualizing me riding. Be compassionate with myself, it is ok to be a work in progress as long I am working. We all have strength and growth points it is good to acknowledge both. I am good and enjoy long rides. I am working on riding bridges without freaking out. Riding the bridges on Shark’s Belly is step in my progress and with that I celebrate the progress that I made.

How to share a podium with Rebecca Rusch and Amy Stewart (two of the strongest ladies around)- show up. No really, I am not fast rider but I showed up. This past weekend I raced in Frosty Fat Bike Race in Sun Valley. I met Erin a few weeks ago, at a local race. She asked if anyone was going to the Frosty race. Just like in college when Thad asked if I had any plans for a weekend to go to race I said no, sure I will go. Both instances, I did not know what expect but went into with an open mind. I signed up for the women’s “expert” class, I wanted to do the longer distance having no idea what “expert” class meant.

I headed to Sun Valley. The conditions were looking good, cold and firm. The start of the race was about 5 degrees. The course was two loops about 10 miles each, big climb, down, then up a canyon with rolling hills. The cold dry air felt like a knife cutting my lungs. I was starting to pass folks towards the top. Started heading down the hill made it about half way. I heard one of my tires went flat. My thoughts were, this might take a while, it has been a long time since my last flat. I look at the tire and realize that I had not closed the valve when I added air before the race. Blonde moment, check! Then, relief that there was a chance the seal was good. Several minutes later I was on my way not having to replace the tube. Most of the pack had passed me. I set a goal not to be the last person racing, the last two races I was the last person.

The weather was just lovely. The riding was gorgeous. I reached my goal as I passed two people. At the awards I realized that I could podium. I enjoy races for the chance to push myself. As it turned out I showed up and placed third of three. I had a feeling the Rebecca Rush would be at her hometown race. I figured that a few other strong locals would show up, they stayed at home. Yes, I have been riding and working hard this winter with the goal of being able to rider further. For this race, I showed up, I made huge mistake that cost me about 10 minutes, kept going and podiumed. Once again, I learned the lesson of showing up. Showing up can be hard however, the reward can be even sweeter.  

   

Jay's Backyard Fat Pursuit

All pictures were taken by Jamye Chrisman, thanks!

Jay P’s Fat Bike Pursuit, this race should make most people shake in their $350 Wolvhammer boots. When I signed up I was expecting a ride that would take 6-8hours. This year that would have been winning time.

I started to look at the weather about week before the event and almost pooped my pants. The forecasted low for the night before was -10. I kept checking the weather throughout the week and it kept going colder. The only time I spent in temps below 0 was walking to my truck. Thankfully I am gear head so I had tons of options for clothes and other systems. On top of the cold weather, my beloved tires Jumbo Jim where showing major wear. It is not ideal to change tires before a big event but I also wanted to have confidence in my gear. I bit the bullet and bought new tires. Both options were a gamble but I felt new tires were the less risky option. I know that I could keep my hands warm to about 5 above, but if I was lucky that would be the high for the Pursuit. The few days leading up to the Pursuit it was in the 30s so I could not test systems. I watched video that where Jay suggested wearing a base layer, fleece, and wind jacket, saying that he uses the same system at 0 and -20. I thought he was nuts thinking maybe his body is better at cold temps. I chose his system plus a thin puffy and shell jacket. I did plan to take those off when I got warm.

The week leading up I kept thinking about different systems for water, food, clothes, hands, feet, skin, etc. I kept asking myself at what point is it going to be too cold? I finally came up with my goals for the Pursuit, 1^st stay safe no frostbite, 2^nd learn more about riding in cold temps, 3^rd have fun, 4^th don’t have expectations on finishing but rather on staying self-sufficient.

Saturday morning. When I went outside to grab my bike it was -20 but it didn’t feel crazy cold. I got ready put my light and Garmin on my bike. Typically before a big ride I get nervous belly, it was not too bad. I head over the start line, I am feeling good. A bit worried about tire pressure, being a new tires I was not sure how long I could before the seal would go. I went to turn on my light and Garmin both were not going to have it in the cold. Thankfully I had an extra light not as bright as I would like. When the race started I was warm. My core warmed up quickly and my feet were getting colder. I stopped about ten minutes into the race to adjust layers and add toe warmers to the top of my boots. I did not want to stop and be “that person” but I knew I needed to stop to reach my goals. Rule #1 no sweating! I got back on a few minutes later. Jay was correct and still crazy but for other reasons.

Once I was riding again I had to play the game of passing. For the most part there was one track to ride in, outside of the track was mash potatoes. I stopped about 45 minutes into the race to drink water and grab a snack. I pulled string cheese. It was starting to freeze, I would take a bite and let thaw. I passed my buddy Frank. I was a bit worried about him, he is much stronger rider than me. Got to the first check point about 10:40. I was feeling good. No reason to turn around. Downed warm water and took off. It took me a while to realize that I was on the climb. By this point the riders had spread out a good bit. Almost at the top by Frank passed me. Turns out he had flat and did not realize it! Gotta love fat bikes.

               

The climb was breathe taking beautiful, the sky was blue bird. It had been a while since I had seen the sun. The trees were all dressed up in snow, they had a heavy coat of snow. I could have stopped enjoyed the sun for an hour, knew that the day was going to long so I just kept going.

I reached the top and was feeling good. I was excited for the downhill.  Then the 4 inch wide track went soft. I could ride for a bit then I would walk. Trying to find the balance between pushing and riding. The riding required perfect balance, upper body and core had to completly engaged to ride. In this section I was not keeping up with time and thus not drinking and eating on a regular bases. I could feel myself slowing down. I passed a sign that stated the lodge is 15 miles back which meant I had over 20 miles to go. I wanted to cry, walking 20 miles with bike is not what I signed up for but there was a chance that I could happen. By mid-afternoon I calculated that I was about 5-7 miles away from the second checkpoint which would be about 2 hours. I kept going and increased my water and calorie intake, I started to feel better. My arms were starting to scream, sharp pain from being so gripped. I remembered that I could lift my handle bars. I first thought about doing that at the checkpoint then decided that I should do it sooner. This was not ideal, taking apart my bike. As I took I was working on my bike Jay the race director came by he looked very worried about me. I had done the same thing trailside this summer so I felt good about it. 20 minutes later I was chilled and in a much better rider position. I was able to warm up quickly. When Jay stopped by he said that we have about 8 miles to till the check point. I was far off on my desistance calculation. The only thing I could do was keep going. I was passed by a number of people including my buddy Zack while fusing with my bike. The price of learning is time.

I still had to walk a good bit. I made the last turn towards the checkpoint. Then the snow got even softer. At times I could ride then I would break though the crust. I let a little more air out. I was almost out of water. My lungs were starting to hurt, what I image an asthma attack would feel like. I eventually came across Zack. We rode and walked together for a bit. It was getting dark. We both talked wanting the day to be over and how much we wanted to hit the EZ button. My lights on my handle bars were dead. I last minute tossed in my headlamp. I kept thinking, how I could ride with my helmet and handlamp. Not wanting to waste more time I took off my helmet and used my handlamp. I reasoned with myself, when I was riding I was going 3-4 miles per hour- I run faster and not seeing would be a greater risk than no helmet. Zack pulled away once again I was alone.

I tried to open my water bottle for the last bit water at 5:30 and I could not open it. I wanted to cry. No idea how far the checkpoint. I was so exhausted and ready to be done. Then about 5:50 I could hear a snowmobile coming. The guy was helping with the race asked if I was ok. I responded yes. He said that the aid station was up ahead. I almost cried for the 100^th time. I remember thinking, someone cares! Then my next thought was, come on Nan people care I just can’t see it right now.

I pull into the checkpoint! Zack greets me saying that we have to keep going. Then I see Bryon another friend. Bryon did not look well, lights were on but not sure if he was home. I down a half liter of water quickly. I was given hot chocolate. Bryon was walking around with his puffy coat in his hands. I asked how could I help, he asked me to help him get his coat on. The folks working the checkpoint were helping others and keeping things warm. I eat some, drink more water I did not really stop I kept moving. Zach says that he is going to keep moving and Bryon wants to join us. The guys said that it would take about 2 hours to ride. I wondered how was the trail? Does 2 hours include walking? It took me almost 2 hours to ride the same distance fresh.

When I got back on my bike I was in Nanland (my happy place). I was warm and recharged! I followed Bryon for bit, looking at his green frame lights thinking Green Machine! At some point I ended up front. The trail was firm and very pleasant. This was fun and what I wanted. Every few minutes I would hoot and holler. I kept thinking it is about to pizza time and no longer business time! Zach’s break had a very loud squeak. I tried not to go so fast so I could not hear him. When we left together I knew that the safest thing was to stay together. At times we would stop and I would give them some of my food. When I left the checkpoint I was not sure how long I would stay in Nanland but with the trail in great condition I stayed there! When we made the turn to go along the powerline I stopped hooted and holler more. Again I almost cried this time from joy!

When I crossed the finish line I gave a huge fist pump and my good friend Jamye was there! She gave me a huge hug. I told her that our friends were with me! We finished in 10:45 hours! A bit longer than we expected. We were filled with many different emotions. We rode up to the lodge and Gary (Jamye’s husband) greeted us. He gave me a great big hug. We did it! I went inside and more friends were there. I went to take off my balaclava and my hair was frozen to it, Frank helped to pull it off.

In the end I reached my goals: I stayed warm, I learned a lot, mostly had fun, and somehow finished. The guys where eating when I arrived. We talked about how challenging the day had been. I believe two years ago the winning time was 3 hours, last year just over 4 hours, this year 6.5 hours. The soft conditions got everyone not just me. Overall the Pursuit was a Pursuit and not a race for me. I was the last female to finish. I am proud that I finished and what I learned.

Looking back lessons learned.

                -Riding at -20 is not much different than riding at 0

                -Long rides in soft conditions go more upright

                -The conditions can get worse or better

                -Toewarmers in the front of boots are a great trick

                -Lithium-Ion batteries do not function in the cold

Lessons reinforced

                -If something is bothering you stop and fix do not wait till it is too late

                -Do not sweat

                -Riding with people is way better than riding alone

                -There is more in me than I think

                -You never really know what the conditions are going to be 

A layperson review of Skookum

The Fatback Skookum

I am in completely and utterly in love with my Skookum fat bike.  If you would have told me five months ago that I would feel this way towards a fat bike I would have laughed.   My old cross-country bike was eight years old, elderly in the bike world. Then it was stolen.  I was heartbroken over losing my first love. Living in skiing heaven, I was one of those people that would say fat bikes aren’t bikes or winter is for skiing. Then with thanks to homeowners insurance, no adventure bike, and a recommendation from a friend I purchased a Skookum. I wanted a bike that could play a bit in the snow and needed to bikepack. I liked the idea of having a Bluto fork, not vital for snow but nice for bikepacking. My thoughts about tire width, were I think those belong on a mack truck.  As the Skookum came with Jumbo Jims, a hefty 4.8 inches with an aggressive lug pattern. When I got the bike, I wasn’t sure about this whole fat biking thing.  I thought it be a way to get outside when I couldn’t ski. Then a friend took me out for single track and my heart started to pitter patter. As winter went on I started to ride more, the more I would ride the more I would fall in love. By March a whole 6 weeks into my fat bike relationship I was biking more than skiing. I would meet a great group of folks who also have a few lose screws.

                Then in April I was invited to ride the Kokopelli trail. When I purchased the bike I thought about getting a second wheel set for summer/ adventure of 27.5+. When I committed to the ride I was traveling and would have 3 days to get my bike ready. Not enough time to sort out what I wanted in terms of tire and gearing. Instead of making quick and costly decisions I went for what I had. Going into this trip I was worried that Jumbo Jims were a bit too big and the gearing would be too hard for a loaded bike going up steep grades. Now, 150 miles later I am more in love. Once I figured out how to get the most clearance out of my seat post bag I was ready. Riding a small frame creates a huge space challenge.  Having less than an inch of clearance but with a bit of extra p-cord on the bag I was good to go. I was worried about the bike handling with weight. Reality, I rode up and down things I didn’t was possible. I will admit did notice weight when I was hike a biking. I was nervous that only having one 30 tooth chain ring would not be a great idea for bikepacking. Reality, 1x11 was great, the gearing was just right. For the long road climbs I added extra air and it wasn’t too bad. Once I got the massive wheels going I felt unstoppable. Going downhill was incredible! I didn’t think riding a loaded bike could be so much fun. The Jumbo Jims are so dang stable. I was able to carry speed well, which adds to the fun-o-meter. I have the 4 season G1 build. I switched to a trigger shifter, went to tubeless, and switched the saddle to a woman’s (that is a rant for another day). If I were to go on a ride with more gravel I think a smaller tire would be good choice. Overall, this bike and build is great for trails such as Kokopelli and single track snow.

The joys of fat tires

I was so very wrong about fat bikes. A fat bike is a bike with tires over 3 inches wide. In November my beloved Sunshine was stolen out of the back of my truck. I had just bought a new trail bike. Sunshine was going to be adventure bike, gravel and bikepacking. My homeowners insurance would cover replacement cost of my bike. I first thought about buying a plus (3 inch tires) size bike that I could still ride some snow and mostly adventure. Then the idea came, buy a fat bike and then second wheel set. I figured that I didn’t have much to lose. In January I test rode a fat bike before buying. Oh man, it kicked my butt. I liked it enough to open Pandora’s box. I ordered a Fat Back Skookum. I named the bike Sven, after the reindeer in Frozen.   From insurance I was able to order a Cadillac, carbon and Bluto fork.

I knew that tire PSI was key for success. My first few rides were not great. The conditions were a bit warm so traction was limited. Then a friend and I rode the single track in Victor, oh man, I was now hooked. Finally, I was able to align conditions and tire PSI. Fitz (local bike shop) was hosting group rides in the evening. I found my bike light and showed up. I am fairly sure I was a complete junk show. Figuring out layering for riding when it 10 out. Trying to keep up the group and not falling. One of the joys of riding on snow is getting flung off and wallowing in soft snow with no warning. I fell a few times. On the way back my light died. Thankfully someone had a backup! My world was just what I could see, everything else disappeared. The next morning, I was back in my happy place.

Next, I finally figured out the trails at Targhee and fell more in love. A friend told me about the Togwotee Pass Winter Classic. A 25 or 35 mile race on snowmobile trails. I felt like I was back in college racing. I have bought winter boots just for this race. I met a few other racers at breakfast. I had figured out how to carry water without it freezing for a 4 hour ride. Then about a half mile in my chain dropped into the spokes. I tried to pull then yank it out, no luck. Someone stopped to help me hold the bike, still no luck. I was forced to push my bike back to the lodge. After a bit I ran into a local who could help me. It took him 45 minutes to get the chain out, that fix was well above my pay grade. By the time my bike was ready the first round of folks were coming in. I went for a little out and back ride. Sad that I wasn’t able to ride but glad it happened at a half mile and not mile 15.

By the end of March, I was completely in love with Sven. Riding brought me joy that I hadn’t felt. I had a sense of adventure that was new. Skiing I love but biking brought me excitement and joy that skiing hasn’t. Fat biking kept me going this winter. I was going through some rough times with my family and job. Thank you to my friends who encouraged me with fat biking, I cannot tell you how much I owe you.  One of the best parts is that Sven isn’t just limited to snow.

Night riding, love the frost.

Targhee single track

pushing up to Mud Lake and making friends who are just as nuts as me. 

Bitch Creek, from my house =)

Idaho Hot Springs, the ride

Hi there! 

So I am not so good about updating my blog better late than never. The Hot Spring Loop. Oh man, that trip kicked my butt and ticked off my achilles. I wasn't able to train as much as I wanted, with the election in May then a cold that had me in bed for a week in June doesn't create good conditions for training. When planning I figured I riding 65 miles per day would be good. 65 miles on gravel and going up and over passes is way harder than 65 road miles. 

The first day, I rode out of Boise with Kyle and Sarah riding the first 20 miles. Then my first pass, the heat kicked my booty. Riding around the reservoir. Finally about 3 pm I was officially on the route! I chose a campground with a hot spring. I was making slower time than I wanted. My booty was starting to hurt. I finally made it to the "campground" it was abandoned about 30 years ago. There was an outhouse that didn't look inviting. I looked for the hot spring, then I saw it, across the river. I could see the steam just downstream. Being alone, I wasn't comfortable crossing the river. So my first soak would have to wait. I made dinner and went to bed. 

The second day. I was up early and headed out. There was a hot spring about 15 miles at the base of the first major pass. I made my way, again slower pace than what I was hoping. I made it to the hot spring for an early lunch. I crossed a small creek with hope of soaking. What I found was a hose but no hot water. So no mid-day soaking. I filled up water, ate, and started the slog up the pass. As I made my way up I found granny gear going a whopping 3 miles per hour. My booty kept hurting. I was clawing my way. A few hours later and 4-5 miles below the top I was walking. A truck passed me offered a ride, I declined. They passed me again and this time I accepted. By this time I was worried about running out of water. They drove me to the top and I was grateful for the help. I don't like taking rides from people, the point is for me to ride my bike not hitch hike. I had under estimated my ability and the challenge I accepted. I needed the help. At the top, I had a blast going down into the first "town" Rocky Bar. Rocky Bar has a house and sign! I had another small pass to climb then drop into Featherville. There was a small store I picked up an ice cream and gatorade. I rode on to a campground about another 10 miles. There was a developed hot spring. When I arrived I realized that it was Saturday night. I was able to find a site. Then I went soaked. While in the pool I realized that I had only talked with the folks who gave me a ride. I craved conversation but no one talked. I made dinner and laid down. Now, I only had my sleeping bag no tent or tarp. A young girl, about in 4th grade came over and asked why I didn't have tent and I was worried about raccoons? I said I didn't need a tent. I told her that I was riding my bike around. She was taken aback, in a good way, she had never thought about riding her bike and camping. I have to say, I love when I shatter people's world with new ideas.     

The third day. I was up early again. Another huge pass, Dollarhide. I had 30 miles of slight uphill, 10 miles of steep uphill, and 25 miles of downhill to Sun Valley. Riding the first section was again slow, my booty hurting, plugging along at 8-10 miles per hour. Once I hit the steep uphill I a sense of joy came. I could see how much I was climbing which makes my heart beat a bit faster. I was still going 3-4 miles per hour. I did have to walk a few places but I made it! Then the downhill, on the steep downhill I would try to keep my speed around 25 miles per hour, not wanting to lose control on gravel and go over the edge. I passed a number of hot springs but didn't soak, I wanted to keep moving. I realized late in the day that it was Father's Day. So I pushed into Sun Valley. I was so hungry and tired. When I arrived in town I called dad to say happy father's day and that I was alive and well. He said that I have family in Sun Valley! Why, my parent's didn't tell me this before my ride not sure. I booked a hotel room as I couldn't find a campground in my 10 minute search. That shower was just wonderful! I rise out my biking clothes. I contact my family, Frankie and Alan, we plan to have breakfast. 

Day four. I got up and mostly packed and rode to meet Frankie and Alan for breakfast. Sun Valley has a very similar feel to Jackson. Oh man, Frankie and Alan were great, they a few years older than my parents. Alan is an avid cyclist. He has a sexy road bike (typically I don’t say road bike and sexy but this one is an exception). He passed on the daily group ride with the guys to meet me. They invited me to stay the night, I accepted my body was beat up. I wanted to buy a new saddle. I was starting to get saddle sores which for me is the indication that a saddle doesn’t fit. I bought a new Brooks B17 men’s, what a difference! Alan and Frankie showed me around, we went to the newly remodeled resort, wow! Alan has WWII jeep, this is his other toy. We enjoyed each other’s company. Crazy to have family close by and they get the mountain lifestyle.

Day Five. As I was packing up I topped off my tires with air. Then blew my tube! Alan would ride with me for the first 20 miles. About 10 miles in I my Achilles was hurting to the point that I needed to take some vitamin-I (Ibuprofen) and tape my Achilles. I had felt it on the first days but it always went away in the first 30 minutes of riding. Now looking back, I wonder if the saddle pain was masking the Achilles pain. When the pavement ended Alan said good-bye. I headed up Glenna Pass and hopefully on to Stanley. Mid-afternoon I was at the Glenna Pass lodge. The bike shop gave me info about the next turn, without that information I would have stayed on the road. The “gravel road” was overgrown not very visible. It was a hard but fun climb. Again not making the time I had hoped but I started to accept my fitness and challenge. I topped out. Then headed down, again checking my speed. About 20 miles from Stanley there is a lodge with food. I figured I would have dinner and ride on bit. Across from Smiley Creek Lodge is landing strip. I talked with two guys who were flying around. I ended up staying the night, the owner let me stay in teepee! My Achilles never felt great.

Day Six. I woke up and had breakfast at the restaurant. I met a woman who was riding a section of the loop. The day before she tried the single track section and she turned back. The year before she raced the Great Divide Route in 28 days, averaging 98 miles! Badass? Yes! Just as the folks the day before at the Glenna Lodge had said the route needed work, she said the same thing. We headed out. My leg was still hurting. I wasn’t sure how far I wanted to go, I wanted to give my leg a bit of rest. By mid morning I knew that I needed to pull off. I had a choice, pull off and be able to rest and recover to work in July or push though be in pain and probably really hurt myself. I called Kyle and Sarah to see if they could pick me up. Being such wonderful friends and despite Kyle haven’t a root canal done that morning they came to my rescue. I made it to Stanley. There is a hot spring in town and I soaked for the second time.

Post ride. I stayed in Boise for a few days before heading back to Teton Valley. My Achilles was still grumpy and swollen. When I got home, my Achilles started to squeak! I went to physical therapist and we created a plan to help my Achilles. I love that I live in a place that gets my lifestyle! I was able to work a NOLS course. My Achilles today 10 months later is still not 100% but it doesn’t affect too much.