Shenandoah 100

Welcome to the future of mountain bike racing. After being present at the National Championships and seeing the full results from 24 hr worlds, it's nice to know it's still alive and kicking. A 100 mile MTB race like the Shenandoah combines every aspect of cycling. It has long brutal two track climbs, technical singletrack climbs, long rough technical downhills, and a few long flat sections. And... a very cool atmosphere to boot. It's got something for the roadies, the climbers, the decenders, the beer drinkers, and the endurance specialists. There's no stupid call ups, silly unfair points systems, or Bullsh@t licenses and memberships. And it doesn't matter who gets the wholeshot because all that nonsense isn't going to make a dam bit of difference 75 miles into a 100 mile race. Just good tough racing. I think we'll continue to see more pro's and tougher competition at these events.

As far as my race went... I was working on 4th only two minutes down at about mile 88, then started having tire troubles. Wha Wha Wha... I think I ended up 8th or 9th??? I'm happy with how I raced though. At least now I know what the course is like for next year and I got a nice workout in prep for the Chequamegon two weeks away. A little rest and recovery this week and I should be good to go.

Michael Simonson

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