Another Iceman in the books!

What an exciting weekend. Our team had 16 riders racing the 27 mile event and two of our riders (Bryan and Montana) took podium spots! To make this weekend even more exciting one of our team members got engaged. I personally could not think of a better event / place to propose!

For myself, the race was interesting to say the least. At the start of the race we stood waiting. During that time I got so cold that my team members in the same wave where getting concerned. But, in a few minutes the gun went off and all 98 riders started. Not more than 1/4 mile into the race I was taken out by a combination of sand and a rider hitting my rear tire. This combination left me laying on the ground watching every rider pass. I picked up my bike and the handle bars where parallel to the front wheel. At this point I wanted to just DNF but I grabbed my multi tool and got the bars almost straight. By the time I finished I could see the next wave of Single Speed riders starting. So I jumped back on the bike and started again with somewhat straight bars. I started to get passed by the Single Speed group which worked out well because I was able to hang onto the rear their rear tire until we hit one sand pit and I was way too far forward and again went over the bars. This time I saw Jared from our team pass. I was so focused on trying to fix my handle bars I didn't even hear what he said. Finally back on the bike and along comes Mark "Biz". We rode together for a few then he was able to gain ground in the last few miles of the race. After a few more miles I finally hit the finish and in 50th passing 48 other riders in my group.

Now that the race was over and the season was done for me it was time for a little celebrating. We hung out in the VIP tent of Gary Fisher and watch the Pro race, while dining on some seriously good food! For the first time in three years our team actually had a rider in the pro class. Mark P. did an awesome job hanging with the Pros!

After dinner with the team and the awards ceremony it was time for the real party. The Bells Beer after party and it did not disappoint! Awesome band and beer. Thank you Bells Beer and the Bells MTB team!

So what is next? Several of our team members still have cross races and adventure races left to do. We also have alot of team business to complete, such as new team members, sponsorship and budgets.