Thursday, August 1, 2013

Enduro World Series - Rocky Mountain High

Winter Park Enduro World Series
It was a rough and wild weekend of racing.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
Jess mining for some of the Rocky Mountain brown gold.  photo Winter Park Resort
This past weekend World Champions, Olympians, big names in the mtb world and a host international competition flocked to Winter Park to do battle with North America's best at the 4th round of the Enduro World Series. The most monumental Enduro race held on American soil proved to be a great one as Trestle Bike Park did an amazing job of creating tracks that challenged all types of riders. After securing his 2nd straight CFF Air DH victory, Team Geronimo's own Brian Buell mixed things up the first day of competition with a 4th overall placing out of 120 participants. Stay tuned as Brian provides you with his take on the weekend and how things all shook out for TG over 3 tough and stormy days of racing.

Dirt TV race recap brian @min 7 http://mpora.com/videos/AAdjgtms8vzp
Rider Brian Buell attacking the Trestle DH track on route to a 4th place.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
History
A quick history lesson. The Trestle Enduro started 2 year ago and each year the competition has grown. In 2011 I finished 2nd overall and fallowed that up with a 10th in 2012. I've always loved coming to Trestle Bike Park at Winter Park and have had some of my most successful race weekends dating back to 2009 at Crankworx. This race is essentially at my home mountain as I grew up less than 2 hours away. I have had this event circled all year long!
Brian circa 2011 on his way to a 2nd place in the original Trestle Enduro  Photo: Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
Wednesday Practice
Brian testing some lines during practice for stage 2.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
I arrived with a crew of Kiwi's early Wednesday afternoon and started my managerial roles of parking the trailer and getting set for the week. After all that was said and done I played tour guide on the mountain to my Kiwi friends Nick and Pang. It was both their first time at Trestle, so I took them on all the previous years race tracks to get them up to speed on what to expect this weekend and to get used to the terrain. The track conditions were dry and some were rougher than usual due to the heavy traffic the mountain has seen this summer. After 5 runs on just about everything that I could imagine racing within the park we called it day and left to set up our Kelty camp by moose lake.
Plenty comfortble and at home in my Kelty Gunnison 2.2.  Photo Holly Turner
Thursday Air DH 
Brian keeping it low and fast up high on the Air DH.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
Teammates and friends joined forces to put up our team pit area first thing Thursday morning which freed me up to register for the Air DH and get to work on the bike. The Air DH is apart of the Colorado Freeride Festival and something I've done since the start here at Trestle Bike Park. The track utilizes the lower half of Rainmaker, a flow trail chalked full of jumps and bermed turns, and it proves to be one of the hardest races I enter each year as its three and a half minutes of all out effort. There was a local only contingency this year as most enduro racers were focused only on the EWS, but I thought this was a great opportunity to ride a portion of stage 2 at race pace. After defending my Air DH title with a solid effort, the word got out and racers joked that I got paid to pre-ride tomorrows track, all in all a win win if you ask me. Michael also put the peddle down for a 3rd place, a great way to start the weekend with 2 TG riders on the podium. A late night of race prep left me ready to give a good effort the fallowing day on stages 1-2.
Brian's Air DH winning bike, the Banshee Rune.  Photo Brandon Turman//vitalmtb.com
Brian Buell's winning bike:  http://www.vitalmtb.com/photos/features/Winning-Bike-Brian-Buells-Banshee-Rune,6094/Winning-Bike-Brian-Buells-Banshee-Rune,60160/sspomer,2

 Friday Stages 1-2
Jess prepares to drop into the rocks on the Trestle DH track.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
Brian piloting his Banshee Rune down the Trestle DH.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
The EWS racing format for the weekend was unique as racing commenced before noon each day, the same time that we would be informed which courses we would be riding the fallowing day. I liked this as it kept riders on their toes, and it provided equal training opportunities for everyone. This meant that racing also started early at 9am and 2nd run continued immediately fallowing your 1st run with scheduled start times for both, quick pit stops only as there was only a small window to make any changes necessary. Anyways, I had a good day of racing with a strong 4th place effort on the Trestle DH track which was rough, but awesome due to some moisture that fell overnight. I had some euros scratching their heads after I fallowed up my 4th with an 11th on a very peddle driven stage 2 to keep my 4th place overall position after stages 1-2. The course maps for the fallowing day were released and off to the Winter Park back country we would go where a mixture of XC, technical DH and natural terrain.
"Almost too fast for the photographer. Brian Buell came in with number 49 and ended up with 4th place. That's nothing to sneeze at."  photo  Philip Ruopp//pinkbike.com
Michael navigating the double jeopardy rocks on stage 2.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com

Day 1 video: Jess @ 1:42 Brian @ 2:38 interview @ 2:42 http://www.vitalmtb.com/videos/member/Enduro-World-Series-Trestle-Bike-Park-Day-1,22213/sspomer,2

Saturday Stages 3-4 
Michael putting the hammer down on some roots up high.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
Spirits were high going into the fallowing day as I slogged up the 20 minute and 500 vertical foot climb, but I was not too confident heading into both stage 3-4. Both were extremely physical and resembled cross country courses, a big difference from the previous day. I've always struggled with my pacing on these longer stages, my strategy was to keep it smooth and find a rhythm over the massive amount of momentum robbing roots. I kept to plan and rode well up top, but hardly felt fast, so I tried to make gains on the technical DH run Mountain Goat but was still gassed near the end of the 12 minute stage. Stage 3 was broken up into 3a and 3b as we had a un-timed transition in-between. Stage 3b was back in the bike park and I was determined to make up for a mediocre 3a. I nearly OTB'd on a feature that took out Ross Schnell, but held on for another top 10 finish, but the damage was done and I moved from 4th to 12th overall after stage 3. Stage 4 was cancelled due to lightning hitting the lifts, this left me with a bad taste in my mouth as I knew I could have gone harder in 3a, but then again so did everyone. Stage 5 was revealed and riders once again found their way to the top that evening for a go once the lifts resumed operation. I did a lower mountain lap on a piece of track I was unfamiliar with and called it a day to preserve equipment.
Brian trying to stay smooth on the high altitude singletrack.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
Mountain Goat proved to be a tough and technical trail that pushed rider and bike to the limit.  Photo: Eddie Clark//eddieclaekmedia.com

Day 2 video Jess @3:06: http://www.vitalmtb.com/videos/features/Enduro-World-Series-Trestle-Bike-Park-Day-2,22225/sspomer,2

Sunday Stage 5
Trestle Mountain Bike Park certainly has some awesome terrain and Jess loves to rip it to shreds.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
A late 11am start meant sleeping in was in order. It had been a physical weekend thus far and I was looking for as much rest as I could get, so I skipped the morning practice session making sure both bike and I were ready for the race. I walked the only piece of track I hadn't seen yet and then waited for riders to drop on the first corner. After observing the top ten I attended to my warm up and was soon in the gate. The first few minutes were slow rolling single track and just as I thought my legs and lungs were about to implode the course dropped back into the bike park utilizing the trails and the DH track. It was an awesome mix and the best stage of the weekend and I was hopeful I could break back into the top 10, however it was no meant to be as even a strong 14th place finish with one big mistake still left me 5 seconds outside the top 10 in 13th overall. After getting over the disappointment, I reflected back on the weekend and was very proud of my 13th place finish. Also, I was very happy for Colorado friend Joey Schusler on his 6th, it was rad to see so many North American riders representing so well. 
Jess up and out of the saddle giving it 100% on the final stage.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
Brian on his way to a solid 13th place overall.  Photo Scott Hefel//scotthefel.com
Day 3 video: Michael @ 1:31 Jess @ 1:44 Michael @ 3:51 Dylan Podium @ 4:50 http://www.vitalmtb.com/videos/features/Enduro-World-Series-Trestle-Bike-Park-Day-3,22231/sspomer,2

Wrap Up
Brian likes the thin air as less oxygen means more airtime.  Photo Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
Giddy up, thanks for the support and telling me to pedal dad.  Photo Tom Buell
The high altitude may have played a part in how things all played out, but I was extremely pleased with how all Team Geronimo riders did this past weekend. Junior Dylan Gressett rode great all weekend and finished in 2nd place overall in his category. Michael Buell put in a solid effort with a 44th place overall and Jess Pedersen rode very well with some impressive times. This was the closest thing to a World Cup I've seen in the rocky mountain region and I'm incredibly excited to head up to Whistler to Participate at round 5 of the Enduro World Series. 
The future of mountain biking is bright with Dylan 2nd place on the podium.  Photo Brandon Turman//vitalmtb.com

Media Links
970biking.com CFF recap vid: http://www.vitalmtb.com/videos/member/2013-Colorado-Freeride-Festival,22275/970biking,307?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=fb_like

Denver Post Article w/quote http://www.denverpost.com/extremes/ci_23749095/winter-park-hosts-biggest-enduro-mountain-bike-race

VitalMTB
stages 1-2: http://www.vitalmtb.com/photos/features/ENDURO-ACTION-Stages-1-and-2-from-EWS-Trestle-Bike-Park,6095/Slideshow,0/sspomer,2 

stages 3-4: http://www.vitalmtb.com/photos/features/ENDURO-ACTION-Stages-3-and-4-from-Enduro-World-Series-Trestle-Bike-Park,6108/Slideshow,0/sspomer,2 Brian Picture 14

stage 5: http://www.vitalmtb.com/photos/features/ENDURO-ACTION-Stage-5-from-the-Enduro-World-Series-at-Trestle-Bike-Park,6114/Slideshow,0/sspomer,2 Jess Picture 14

Pinkbike

Stages 1-2 http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Colorado-Freeride-Festival-Day-2-Enduro-Stage-1-amp-2.html
Stages 3-4 w/results http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Colorado-Freeride-Festival-Day-3-Enduro-Stages-3-and-4-2013.html
Stage 5 http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Colorado-Freeride-Festival-Day-4-Enduro-Stage-5-2013.html

VeloNews gallery by Daniel Dunn
http://velonews.competitor.com/2013/07/mtb/gallery-enduro-winter-park_297354

Mountain Flyer Gallery by Eddie Clark
http://www.mountainflyermagazine.com/view.php/2013-colorado-freeride-festival.html


Cycling News 
http://www.cyclingnews.com/races/enduro-world-series-winter-park-2013/results#1

CFFEST FB https://www.facebook.com/ColoradoFreerideFestival

EWS FB https://www.facebook.com/EnduroWorldSeries

Ride On!
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Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Canyons Enduro Cup - Crushing The Canyons

Crushing The Canyons

Tunes from the nearby concert further entertained those gathered at finish. Photo  Mike Schirf//Enduro Cup
Brian Buell reports once again on his experience racing the NAET series race at Canyons Resort near Park City, Utah. It was a one day race with 3 stages and some good un-timed transfers in-between. He was the only member of Team Geronimo in attendance and was utilizing the event as a tune up for the upcoming Enduro World Series event in Winter Park. He wound up finishing in 14th place overall against some world class competition, but wasn't satisfied as he had some major mistakes and didn't ride to his full potential.  
Fallow the signs and get your tickets to a great event, thanks Dan Roper and crew.  Photo Mike Schirf//Enduro Cup
Friday

Feeling a bit worn out from the previous weekend I rolled into Canyons Resort looking forward to racing at a new venue. The mountain is laid out in an interesting format, multiple lifts are utilized to get to the start of all of the stages, or if your Mike West, you frown upon this and ride your way to the top. The trails were dry, the vegetation was tall and on one of the stages there were vertical rocks set in the trail, axle hight just waiting to take you out. It took me a second to adjust to the terrain, but I managed a few laps on each trail and called it once I was unable to hold onto my bars. They weren't the most technical, nor the longest runs, but all of the stages were extremely physical with lots of sprinting. I put some fresh rubber on for the next day and awaited a 8:30am mass start to the top of the first stage the next morning.
Rider Brian Buell with his trusty steed the Banshee Rune.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com

Saturday
With nearly 50 strong at the start line we started riding up the first un-timed stage which was a good 30 minute effort to the start of the first timed stage. I was one of the only riders who opted to wear a full face helmet due to the amount of peddling, but I felt that the tracks warranted full protection at race pace and I would deal with it on the climbs. I waited an hour up at the start as I was near the end of the start list, but by this time my muscles had relaxed and I felt sleepy. I tried to fight this feeling but I never really got into my run, combined with a mechanical I finished 15th on the stage and was looking from the outside in. 
Brian mixing it up on the 3rd row wearing his POC Cortex full face helmet.  Photo Mike Schirf//Enduro Cup
I was pretty determined to make time up on stage 2 and after another liaison climb to the top and fixing my mechanical I was the last pro rider down. The tight nature of the trails proved difficult, lots of riders had issues seeing where they were going or were caught by surprise by a 180 degree hairpin turn. I kept it clean, but was still slightly off the pace in 11th place. The liaison stages were quite enjoyable, and the last one of the day was a long peddle through thick aspen tree forests. 
Devon captures Brian taking the high line on the final stage.  Photo Devon Balet//devonbaletphoto.com
The last stage was a mix of DH inspired steeps which ran back into the first timed stage. I enjoyed the top and kept it clean, but ran out of gas at the bottom. Another 15th place, but a fun weekend of racing. It was very low key, but the Enduro Cup Series put on a great show and all the riders kept a very quick pace. Disappointed with my result, I look forward to the next weekend and the Enduro World Series in Winter Park.
Riders hang up their bikes and head to the beer tent after a great day of racing.  Photo Mike Schirf//Enduro Cup

Check out some media from the event: 

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Keene-and-Irmiger-Win-Bell-Enduro-Cup-at-Canyons-Resort-2013.html

http://velonews.competitor.com/2013/07/mtb/gallery-enduro-cup-canyons-2013_296660

 https://www.facebook.com/EnduroCupMTB

Thank you so much to our wonderful sponsors and Team Geronimo supporters for your continued support.

Ride On!
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Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Master The Mass Enduro


Mastering The Mass
Brian keeping it low on route to one of his stage wins.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
Brian Buell again providing his take on the past few weeks of racing. Its been incredibly busy and the racing has been tough. Take a look as Brian and Junior riders Dylan Gressett and Tyler Spence Master The Mass in Snowmass.

Promo Youtube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_i2RjvodmxU

Its been a wicked busy month of racing and traveling(locally thank goodness). The tracks have been tough and physical, week in week out, so naturally the body is starting to tire a little, but I must push on and find as much recovery time as possible because this train isn't slowing down anytime soon!

Master The Mass is a really great event, and due to its low key nature the racing vibe is very relaxed and fun. Snowmass is literally just down the road from where I live, about 30 minutes, so it was really nice to make a day trip each day and sleep in my own bed each night. The temperatures have been nuclear, so trail rides throughout the week leading up to the race were took in the early AM, and the rest of the day I was able to rest and recovery from the previous weekends racing in Keystone. I missed out on this race last year as I was chasing the East Coast World Cup scene, but I wasn't going to miss out on this very unique event that utilizes both an interesting race/scoring format. There were 4 stages of racing(Uber D, Cross Country, Chainless, Downhill) that was comprised over 3 days and the scoring was based upon your percentage behind the leader after each run, then combined for the overall. In my opinion it was one of the most challenging and fun events I've ever been apart of and the point system worked out great rewarding riders for their strengths and creating an even playing field. Here's how it all went down.

Brian providing friends Megan and Nick details of his run after stage 1 finish.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
Stage 1 - Uber D

I arrived Friday and met with Dylan and Tyler to get up on the hill and inspect the 9 mile long Uber D course that we would be racing later that afternoon. The Uber D utilizes many trails on the mountain and starts above 11,000ft at the top of Elk Camp Lift. Vapor Trail starts it off and is an interesting mix of machine build trail up top and natural down near mid mountain where it ends. A quick sprint past the Elk Camp Gondola and onto the flow trail, Valhalla for a few minutes. It turns onto Government Trail which is one of the most popular trails in the region as it traverses the Aspen mountains. There are a few mean pitchy uphills but we were rewarded with descending down the insanely fast Anaerobic Nightmare Trail through the aspen trees and onto Tom Blake Trail where the fun continues until you cross Owl Creek Rd and hope onto Highline Trail. A lung busting scrub brush hillside traverse awaits, until finally the trail ends on a tight descent and through the finish line on Cemetery Rd. With 3,500ft of vertical drop, we were looking forward to this after riding it in full once, but knew it might be the hardest race course we've encountered this year due to the shear length of it all. 
Dylan in a sea of scrub brush eyeing down the finish line.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
I felt great out of the gate as the DH style Vapor track greatly suites my style, but as soon as I made my way through Valhalla and onto Government I was starting to feel weak. Too much sprinting up top left me gasping for air on the ascents and it took me a while to regain form towards the bottom. A few tricky turns had me concerned and I ended up braking when I shouldn't have. I tried to make up for my mistakes towards the bottom on Highline, but I was ruined by that point. I mustered up enough strength to sprint hard across the line, but a 9th place left me searching for lost time along the way. Bike setup and strategy would be addressed before the Cross Country the next morning. Tyler unfortunately broke his chain mid way through the race, he ran and kicked his way never giving up all the way to the line in 20th position. Dylan had a great run and placed 1st in his category. Worn out we headed home knowing it wasn't going to get any easier the next morning in the Cross Country stage.
Brian blazing a trail through the tight bits on the lower half of Highline Trail.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks

Up and at em early, but a slight delay had us lined up for a mass start at 10am. I was situated next to a few lycra clad, leg shaven high posters and wasn't quite sure what to think of the whole situation. I knew that I wouldn't be close to the strongest rider in the bunch, so once the gun sounded I positioned myself right behind the fast boys and tried to hold on. The pace was manageable until we reached the first set of switchbacks above Elk Camp gondola and then the pace really picked up. Into the fresh cut single track forest we all went and I was left mid pack wondering when my 2nd wind would arrive. Low and behold I started making moves about 10 minutes into the race and spent the majority of the time trying desperately to keep a high cadence with my 38 tooth chainring setup. I had multiple riders in my sights throughout, but could not pull them in on any of the climbs and as we traversed the hillside towards Spider Sabich the overgrown vegetation made looking ahead and turns tough to gauge. I was able to hold off a rider behind me long enough to hook into an old DH track which brought riders back to the base and finish line. It was a quick 7 miles and still had plenty of descending, but some of the climbs were sustained and quite rugged. I found myself once again in 9th place, but the damage was done as I was 11 percent behind first place. It was respectable, but my goal is to become more multi dimensional and a threat at these events in years to come. Tyler Moved his way up into 11th with a strong effort and Dylan kept it together for a 3rd place finish. The promoters might as well of read my mind, the last two events were hard on the peddles, time to take the chain off for the next stage.
The Snowmass trail system.  Photo: aspensnowmass.com
Stage 2 Results:  http://www.aspensnowmass.com/-/media/Events/MASTER/2013_MoM_Stage2_Results.pdf

Stage 1-2 photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151716788967042.1073741838.106030702041&type=1

Stage 3 - Chainless DH
Dylan boosting long and low on Valhalla.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
I'm extremely fond of chinless racing and the thought of creating a Chainless World Series has even crossed my mind. In my opinion there is no better way to judge a riders skill than to take off the chain, and let gravity do all the work. I've raced chainless on Valhalla before and let me tell you it is tough. The turns by this point were blown, the course very dry and the jumps take a certain skill set to stay low over, so its a real challenge and one mistake can be really detrimental. I pride myself on turning technique and exit speed, and work everyday to continue to improve. My background with gated racing goes great with a jump track as well. After a few laps to help fill the voids of some important pieces of track it was time again to race. It was comical to watch bicyclists run alongside and sidesaddle their steeds, many of the bunch are not runners. A good running start is pretty important as speed going into the first straight were slow going, but once in the trees it was non-stop all the way to the bottom. The amount of focus left me with a sore neck and a bit of a headache, but after 9 minutes of turning and burning and almost catching my 30 second man I crossed to line in 1st place. Tyler showcased his skills in the Amateur Men category and made the podium with 3rd place. Dylan once again kept it consistent upon his Banshee Rune and into 2nd for another podium. A long day came to an end with a great social gathering at the Base with bar food and friends. I had put myself in the position that if I did well the fallowing day in the DH I could possibly score a podium overall position.
Tyler on route to another podium during the chainless DH.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
Stage 3 podium L to R 2nd: Nate Hills 1st: Brian Buell 3rd: Steve Wentz.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks

Stage 3 Results: 
http://www.aspensnowmass.com/-/media/Events/MASTER/2013_MoM_Stage3_RESULTS.pdf
Stage 4 - Downhill

Brian airing out from the Hell's Kitchen woods and onto the back straight.  Photo: Todd Gressett
I put the big Maxxis High Roller 2 meats back on in anticipation of the next stage, and probably the one I was most excited about, the National Downhill track. I've been racing in Snowmass for 9 years and actually took my first downhill victory here in 2004. I've had many other podiums and victories on this track, so I was looking forward to giving it a go on the smaller trail bike. The high speed top half of the track was taken out, so we were in reality only racing about 70 percent of the original course, but after the start line, it was full on right into the dark forest. We were graced with overnight rain however and the track that is usually known for, and potentially even famed for being one of the most blown out loose tracks out there, it was actually tacky and held great traction. The lack of trail maintenance left racers crossing their fingers while plowing down the rough track through thick mountain cabbage, but after a few practice runs in the morning a few lines started to burn in. I felt absolutely terrible the first lap down as perhaps I was used to a faster speed while navigating the trail, but 2 more practice laps left me feeling prime and ready to give it a good go. Its always fun to get loose on the trail bike and I got a little out of my comfort zone while on my race run, but all in all had a very clean run and bested much of the competition by a large margin and enough for another race win. Tyler went on a flyer and won his race by over 7 seconds! Dylan raced a tight one but settled for a well earned 2nd place, but was definitely looking to end the weekend with a victory.
Tyler looking down the depths of Hell's Kitchen on his way to a stage 4 win. Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
Tyler mixing it up with an older crowd and taking the top spot in stage 4.  Photo: John Harmann//Hartworks

Stage 4 Results: http://www.aspensnowmass.com/-/media/Events/MASTER/2013_MoM__Stage4%20RESULTS.pdf

 Stage 3-4 photos:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151718747692042.1073741839.106030702041&type=1
Overall
In the end I worked my way from 9th to 4th overall, just a few points outside of 3rd. With his misfortunes, Tyler still put in a 10th place result. Dylan took the top overall honors in the Junior category with some seriously consistent and strong riding.
Men's Overall Podium and a 4th place for Brian Buell.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks
Big D, Dylan Gressett on top of the box after a solid weekend.  Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks

Overall Standings: http://www.aspensnowmass.com/-/media/Events/MASTER/MoM_GC_Final%20Results.pdf
Overall impressions of the race weekend were good, the trails were rad, the competition stiff and the body sore. However, because it was there, and I need to continue to work on my fitness, I managed a Rim Trail ride in fallowing the event. Thank you all very much for your continued support of myself and Team Geronimo.
Plenty of TG on top of the box this weekend.  Photo:  John Hartmann//Hartworks
Ride On!  

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Thursday, July 11, 2013

Big Mountain Enduro #3 - Kicking Butt in Keystone

Big Mountain Enduro #3 - Keystone
Brian letting it roll down a step chute on stage 5.  Photo: Eddie Clark//eddieclarkmedia.com

This past weekends 3rd stop of the Big Mountain Enduro at Keystone Resort was also the 2nd round of the NAET(North American Enduro Tour) and with it came a riders list full of heavy hitters from all over North America, and some International riders as well. Instead of arriving early, I utilized my 4th of July holiday to tie up some loose ends before loading up Thursday afternoon and hitting the road. Keystone is a bit of a local mountain for me and I've had some of my best race results to date on the rough and ragged bike park. After speaking with some riders whom pre-rode on Thursday, I was happy with my decision to sit the day out as other riders were beat and bikes already broken. Instead I spent the afternoon prepping for a very long weekend and enjoyed some amazing fireworks over Lake Dillon. 
Keystone is fast, plaid speed fast.  Photo: Holly Turner//http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han

Training Day

The anticipation to get on the hill was almost too much as I was bouncing off the walls like a little kid in anticipation for this long weekend of racing, and unnaturally I was ready and on the lift at 10 on the dot. Like Crested Butte the week before, Keystone wold feature 6 stages and 1 on the mountain transfer stage. That's where the similarities end as Keystone is a whole different beast in comparison to CB in that the bike park for one boasts a thousand more vert and is considerably rougher. We set out doing all of the runs in race order and it took most the day to fully complete all stages. It was going to be very tough to remember all of the courses to a T, but past experience has taught me to take extra mental notes at all intersections as its nearly impossible to deceiver signs while riding at 100%. Speaking of riding at 100%, that is what you have to do in order to be competitive at these events, the level of riding is insanely high due to the grand diversity of the overall competition. Even though the lifts were open until 7, I called it quits early, dropped my bike off to my boy in Blue, Tyler West at Shimano for some pampering and hit up the 6pm riders meeting. The BME race promoters have done an exceptional job learning on the fly and had a giant task ahead of them this weekend and they enlisted all riders to help keep it fair and to ride the trail. Team Geronimo is committed to keeping to the trail, never negating a turn and has the best interest of continuing this awesome format while keeping the National Forest Service happy as these events are all permitted. With the bikes dialed in, it was time to grub out and find my Kelty tent for the night as an early morning and an intense day of racing was on deck.  
Team Mechanic John Hartmann dialing in Michael's ride. Photo: Holly Turner//http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han
Stage 1 - Girl Scout

While I was dreaming of enduro glory the skies opened up and left the mountain soaking wet. A 9am start didn't leave much time for the tracks to dry and as I hit the first turn of Girl Scout I nearly lost it but regained control and carried on. This slick top layer didn't do much for my confidence as I navigated the wide open peddle driven top part of the track cautiously. Once I hit Eye Of The Tiger I finally found a rhythm, but the damage had been done up top and I lost a lot of time thinking about the moisture laden trail and had to put in a large effort to retain a 10th place on the stage. It was the longest stage of the weekend at 14 plus minutes long and proved to be very physical as it combined all types of terrain for one fun top to bottom run. Jess rode looking for a solid start to the weekend and finished in 23rd. Michael navigated through some traffic and managed an impressive top 20 slotting into 18th. With stage 1 in the books, we were all looking forward to stage 2 as it should highlight our DH background.
Brian eyeing the finish line on Stage 1. Photo: John Hartmann//Hartworks

Stage 1 Results: 
http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage1.pdf
Stage 2 - Cowboy Up

I've been racing out of this start house since 2004 and the first section of this stage Cowboy Up is classic Keystone with its tight bermed turns through the forest and then it opens up to a mean rock garden in the middle of the ski run. I've always navigated this section with ease and during practice blitzed it without issues so when it came time to race I was fired up to give it another go. I felt great through the tree's leading into the rocks, I got a little too excited to put on a show for the photogs and spectators jumping into the rocks and as I exited I heard the noise no racer ever wants to, hisssssssss. I quickly jumped off as my wheel sealed with single digit PSI, put a CO2 to it, but it did not hold and I was forced into taking tools and tubes out just to get down the hill. Weekend overall hopes smashed, not pleased with myself, I tried to keep up a positive attitude and focused on individual stage finishes instead. This stage utilized some of the fastest portions of trail down Loggers Way and was also super technical with some tight squeezes in Punk Rocks. Overall the stage was 11 plus minutes and one of the gnarliest courses out there. Michael slipped back in a tightly contested field finishing 23rd and Jess opened it back up utilizing his DH ninja skills for a solid 17th. 
Jess getting gnarly in the Cowboy Up rockgarden. Photo: Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com
Stage 2 Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage2.pdf

 Stage 3 - Mosquito Coast 

By this time in the day the temps had risen and the tracks were well beyond dry again, which I think we all enjoy growing up racing in these conditions. I was fuming still after stage 2 and finally saw my time from stage 1 and wasn't that impressed, so I was out for a result on stage 3. After collecting myself and getting nourished I was back atop the start of Milky Way near the end of the pack. I honestly do not mind starting near the rear as the vibe is generally very laid back, and once out on the trail I start hunting for my 30 second man. As soon as I see dust still sitting in the air or a jersey in the distance I find an 11th gear and go. I passed 2 riders on my way to a 5th place and was pleased with my effort after crossing the finish line. This stage was in some ways similar to stage 1 as it was very physical, it spent more time on the open ski slopes with too many traverses to count, but it was a blast to ride as it ended with the infamous tight and twisty Wild Thing section. Jess was feeling the last too stages and was slightly on the other side of the bubble of riders but still cracked the top 30 in 28th. Michael put in another strong top 20 effort and rode hard for another 18th place spot, making two on the day. It was a tough day, enduro racing is full of ups and downs, a bit of a mental roller coaster. I wanted to carry a strong end of the day into Sunday in hopes that I could capitalize on my momentum as I was learning to loosen up and let go. 
Michael navigating some of the loose keystone dirt. Photo: N Ontiveros//bigmountainenduro.com
Stage 3 Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage3.pdf

Day 1 Video Recap: http://vimeo.com/69819021

Stage 4 - Paid-In-Full

I utilized the extra hour of practice time Sunday to get a warm up run in on Stage 5, its a full on DH affair and a better way to wake up than coffee(I know some will differ, but Cafe does not do it for me it turns out). Back up to the top and again slotted in towards the back of the pack I found myself behind Oregon ripper Matt Slaven. The track utilized the same top section of Cowboy Up and to prevent future mishaps like I had the previous day I put some big Maxxis 3C DH casing tires on and gave it another go. I didn't feel as on fire as the previous day, but I managed to make it through unscathed and carried on to some of the fastest sections of the mountain. Paid-In-Full is full on wide open ski run point and shoot fun, and a little unnerving but I was having the time of my life on it and started hunting down the purple polyester of Slaven ahead. Matt and I managed a few passes as I rode his tail towards the end and once safe he opened it up for me to carry on and into the finish below for another satisfying 5th place finish. I want to extend some well wishes to Matt as he recovers from a gun shot wound after being mugged in Santa Cruz, makes you grateful for everyday, especially ones spent on the bike. Michael didn't start the stage too well with a crash on the Cowboy Up rocks smashing his wrist/hand, but managed to hold on for an impressive 26th. Jess found his mojo and rode well as he was finally getting up to speed on his freshly built Banshee Rune and sprinted across the line into 10th.
Brian taking the smooth line and keeping air in the tires. Photo: Daniel Dunn//danieldunnphoto.com

Cowboy Up Video:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151752580616410&set=vb.264434926409&type=2&theater
Stage 4 Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage4.pdf

Stage 5 - Milky Way

After I got my breath back I knew that if I could squeeze another run in on stage 5 it would prove greatly beneficial. I set up my Fox Suspension slightly stiffer for it sit higher in the travel for some of the gnarly steep, tight and twisty bits that encapsulated this short three and a half minute track. It was much shorter than all other stages and I was trying to treat it more like a DH race as I set my sights on a stage victory. Michael and I went off back to back and we were greeted my dad cheering us both on up top which added more fuel to the fire. Its always rad to have my family at the races, their support of me and my brothers racing has been huge as we definitely wouldn't be in the same position we are now. I was drifting corners and feeling pinned while navigating some awesome sections chalked full of jumps, drops and gnarly steeps. I crossed the line and let out a holler as I was stoked on my run. I learned that I managed to crack the top 3 finishing in 2nd place and peddled the transfer stage motivated to end the weekend on a high note. Michael finished in 21st but the times were so tight and a second either which way meant lots of places gained or lost. Jess was a stones throw away from a top ten and finished in 16th with another good result. My good buddy whom I've been racing against in juniors since the beginning, Joey Schusler finished 1st once again and was on fire holding onto the top spot going into the last stage. 
Brian committed dropping in on the steeps on stage 5. Photo: N Ontiveros//bigmountainenduro.com
Stage 5 Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage5.pdf

Stage 6 - Eye of the Tiger

The "spirit of enduro" is a phrase that has been widely utilized and has many different meaning depending on who you talk to. To me the "spirit" means, if someone needs help or assistance and you have the resources to help then going out of your way to do so is in the "spirit" of enduro. I was one of the last to the top of the transfer after helping one of my fellow riders fix his flat tire he sustained in stage 5 and once again lined up behind my brother looking to smash the final race of the weekend. It started at the start of the trail, Eye of the Tiger which was a rider favorite because of the tight and flowing natural terrain which wound through the dense pines. I utilized the knowledge gained in stage 1 which shared this trail and had an exceptional run hucking to flat all the way to the finish and a 4th overall for the stage. Michael put together a personal best 13th place ending his weekend on a high note. Jess was pushing hard, but unfortunately punctured, but he still gave it a good effort until the bitter end. 
Jess focused and looking forward to crossing the finish line. Photo: Eddie Clark//eddieclarkmedia.com
Stage 6 Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Stage6.pdf

Overall Results: http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/assets/files/BME_KeystoneResults_Final.pdf

Day 2 Video Recap: http://vimeo.com/70005476

Brian's Take

These Big Mountain Enduro races are possibly the most physically demanding, bike beating and mentally straining races out there and I've definitely learned a lot every weekend. There is so much that has to go into successful overall outcome. Bike setup, mental/physical prep and course inspection are key, if you aren't confident with all of these its tough keeping it all together for a full weekend and a combined full seasons worth of DH. I'm still trying to find what works for me, for example if possible its important for me to take a practice run, just to get warmed up and confident in going 100 percent once the countdown hits zero. Also, I believe a certain degree of luck has to be on your side. If I negated stage 2 from all competitors and added up total times I would have been top 5, so I'm happy with how I'm riding and my fitness is coming along. Looking forward to Master The Mass this weekend in Snowmass, nice to have a race in my backyard! 
Brian on a burner and a 2nd place on stage 5. Photo: N Ontiveros//bigmountainenduro.com

Michael's Take

After leaving Crested Butte the week before feeling like I had left a lot on the table when the weekend was over. I was extra focused and excited to step up my game and give it everything I had in Keystone!

Training for me this Season has been going very well! I’m healthy, injury free, and I’ve been putting in between 60-100 technical miles a week while coaching with the SMBA youth development team in Boulder Colorado. I’m feeling stronger and more confident then ever, with both my fitness and technical skills continuing to improve to new heights as the season progresses forward. At Crested Butte 2 weeks ago I was feeling a little bit overtrained from the intensity of my training. So after the super physical and intense weekend of racing down there, I decided to take advantage of the holiday break from coaching/training and focus on recovery leading into Keystone. This plan payed off well, and I felt super strong throughout the 2 days of racing in Keystone and was able put together some very clean and fast runs. I was pretty happy with 5 out of 6 of my stages, despite a couple of minor bobbles, and my Shimano/FOX equipped Banshee Rune ran flawlessly over the combined 1hr of racing!  I was able to finish the weekend with a personal best 13th on stage 6 and a 14th place overall on the weekend. I’m pretty pumped to have cracked into the top 15 among the very talented, group of competitors that made up the pro field of stop #2 NEAT (National Enduro Tour) / Big Mountain Enduro #3 race field!
Michael put in consistant runs and finished a strong 14th overall. Photo: Holly Turner//http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han

I know I still have a lot of room for further personal development and improvement this season and going into future seasons in this relatively new format of racing, I look forward to continue working my way up the ranks even more as my training and fitness continues to progress. I’m having a blast at these races and look forward to continue with the solid momentum gained from this past weekend!
Buell brothers post race catching their breath. Photo: Holly Turner//http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han

Jess's Take

Keystone was rad!!!
Jess had a solid weekend but a puncture ended his hopes of a top 15 overall. Photo: Holly Turner// http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han
Conclusion

With a week long hiatus in-between the NAET race, Team Geronimo will take their talents to Snowmass and compete to be the Master of the Mass in a one off event that includes chinless downhill, downhill, enduro, XC races to crown its overall champion. Thank you to all of our incredible sponsors for your continued support of Team Geronimo, we are extremely grateful for you are the foundation to our success!
Ride On! Photo: Holly Turner//http://hollyturne6.wix.com/hmtfoto#!portfolio/c1han
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