This Saturday, the day after I turn 40, I take on the Durango 100. You can see the information on the race at www.mtb100.com Its 100 miles offroad, 18,000 feet of climbing between 9500 and 11500 feet of altitude. Most people wont make the time cuts and finish the whole 100 miles, I believe two years ago it was less than 15 who were finishers. They have 500 dollars for the first to break 9 hours, but even some ex pro racers have not been able to do that at this point. Leadville 100 has the name, but there are a lot of great endurance races around now that offer better and often more difficult courses. Now we are seeing more multi day stage races as well as a national series.
It reminds me of when I started triathlon in the 80’s with a laid back atmosphere, reasonable entry fees and of course drafting is pretty much a non issue in the results. Those interested in a different endurance challenge should think about taking a look at one of these races.
Two years ago I did the Soul Ride 100 on a fully rigid singlespeed and vowed never to try that again. For this event I am coming geared and suspended. The bike is a Scalpel Team with some custom wheels (built by me) and standard tires converted tubeless with Stans latex sealant. Complete weight with computer and cages is 22.6lb. Not bad considering that my first tri/road bike was a Centurion Dave Scott Tri Master that weighed over 22lb with aerobars!
Kevin