I saw a bear. What a scare! Friday afternoon Linds and I made the haul up to Seeley to pre-ride the Pre-Fat. As we rolled past the dump gate I jokingly told her to watch out for bears. Little did I know, I would be the bear greeter. The Seeley area has many great rides. There is a variety of double and single track sections along with some undulating elevation. Carving a steep rocking downhill I scanned ahead to see a black bear standing in the middle of the trail. I hit the binders with 20 yards to spare. Surprisingly, the bear did not move! After some yelling and flailing my fuzzy friend busted off into the woods. Maximum heart rate accomplished.

The atmosphere and nostalgia of an up north race is something I truly enjoy. It is always great to see the enthused faces that inspired me nearly a decade ago. After Tom explained signs and course we were rolling up OO.

As in past years, the road pace was moderate. I stayed near the front to avoid any silliness. Over the first climb I tucked into second wheel as we entered the woods. Aaron was pushing hard and a three man group was established before we crossed for the big climb. Cooperating, we set a hard tempo over the ski trail and the gap continued to grow. At the end of the first major single track section I was 10 sec off the pace as Scott rallied the trail. After hard chasing, I was able to reconnect with 10 miles to go.

Seven to go, with a three minute gap, we kept a mild pace heading into the final single track loop. Once again, Scott had 10-15 sec at the end of the single track sections. Many things were running through my mind. I knew at red line it would be close, but not that close.

100 yards to go, with the finish banner in sight, I pinned it. The gap was small and my legs felt strong. Inspired I surged one last time to cross for the W.


A big thanks to On The Rivet, Momentum Endurance, Lindsey, and the fam for all their support!
Dakota Five-O here we come!