Holy Toledo, August was just crazy!  There were events galore and hundreds of miles of biking, at least for a few of the Sturdy Bitches...

At the end of July (before I move into August), Angela and Katie headed down to Bend for the High Cascades 100.  This was Katie's 1st year doing the race and at least the 3rd round for Angela.  Angelea wrote a race report on her blog so check out this link  for details on how they did.  Sounds like a good (in a masochistic way) time and a great race if you're into that kinda torture!  Nice work gals, that is just brutal but you both finished it up and got those growlers.  Well done!!

In early August, Jenn, Virginia and I (Susan) headed off to the Black Diamond XTerra.  We were joined by Kathy from Fanatik Bikes in Bellingham and Carolyn (currently unaffiliated but previously with Speedy Beaver Racing).   It was a hot day, there were bees, the swim was less horrible than anticipated (but I was still really slow!) and we ended the day with a growler of Georgetown Mannys and one of Lucille.  It was funny how different the atmosphere at the different races is.  These triathletes don't stick around.  Even though it was a beautiful day and still early in the day, there were no race team tents, no beer (I think ours was the only beer we saw), and people pretty much bailed unless they were going to make it to the podium. 

In spite of all of that it was alot of fun.  I always love this particular XTerra because it is really mountain bike friendly, with a reasonably technical course that slows those strong as road riders down but not so much on the technical mountain bike parts.  The Diamondback Sortie   was a great bike for this as it's light enough to operate as an XC bike but sturdy and agile enough to navigate the roots and the rocky downhills on the course. The final result was a podium for Carolyn, Kathy and myself.  Was hilarious because our prizes were to be XTerra pint glasses but due to a mix-up in shipping, we ended up with a "Save the Date" for someone's wedding (in TX) glasses.  Just got an email that we can pick up the actual glasses now but we sure got some laughs about our pint glasses for a strangers wedding.

Next on the agenda was the Capitol Forest Super D and XC race.  Wow what an event the Friends of Capitol Forest put on.  Not only do they perform hours and hours of labor on the amazing trails out in Olympia but they pulled off a screamin' good time that weekend.  As always, they had a huge tent up for post-race relaxing but this time there was beer on tap both days as well as a tequila bar and a roast pig. While I am "pescatarian" I can appreciate the effort that went into barbequing and HUGE pig and serving pulled pork sandwiches to hundreds of racers!  They always have a ton of prizes both for the racers but for a raffle as well.  Oh and in addition to the beer and tequila?  Every award was personalized onsite by a guy punching in what you wanted but also rolling it and adding adhesives so you could put it on your top tube should you so desire.  Crazy good times. Hilites of the event?  Getting to see Val from the Dirty Harlots (out of Hood River) and Turbo the three legged dog.  Watching Jeff (Ady's hubby) run the Turbo taxi (see inset pic), the zillions of shuttle runs, the awesome campsite we got thanks to the FOCF crew, and the MacGuyver job that Josh and Jeff did "faking" a bolt with zip ties.  Those zip ties held the bike together for Virginia's winning run during the Super D!





Sturdy Bitch Racing pulled in a bunch of hardware at the XC Race, the Super D, and even the "All Mountain" which was combined times for both events.  Think the end results were Ady - Super D 3rd in Sport, Kathy, Super D 2nd in Sport, Susan 1st in Super D & XC and 3rd in All Mountain and Virginia 1st the Super D in Expert Class.  Woohoo!! 

In between her time in Bend for the HC100 and doing the Leadville 100, Angela, Ady and Katie held a Bikes, Bitches and Beer ride at Paradise Valley.  The intent being to bring the girls together for a fun ride and then go out for some food and awesome Georgetown Beer at a local watering hole.  The ride was out in the Maltby area and on the way back out to the freeway, the girls hit the Main Street Alehouse in Bothell to partake of some good grub and some cold beer.  

Towards the end of the month, Angela headed out to Colorado to attempt to aclimate to the elevation.  She was picked up under another team to race the Leadville 100.  In spite of her lack of Sturdy Bitch colors, she maintained the title of Sturdy Bitch and finished this grueling race on her Diamondback Axis.  She got some hardware in the form of a new belt buckle and she has done a race report so we can understand the pain and suffering she endured to get it.  Check out her report here. 




The next adventure for August was Virginia's trip out to MacCall, Idaho to do the XTerra Wild Ride.   She was too busy swimming, biking and running to snap any pictures but she wasn't too busy to pull off a 3rd place finish in her age bracket. Fortunately before she departed to Idaho, Jon at Diamondback procured a bolt for her rear triangle and her Diamondback Sortie was back in action.   Yet another sturdy result for the Bitches.  Nice work Virginia!!

To kick September off, we had another Bikes, Bitches and Beer ride at Tapeworm down in Renton, WA.  We had a group of 12 enthusiastic ladies on the ride and we headed out through the Tapeworm, to Parasite and then we did two loops through the new trail out there, the Silk Worm.  In spite of how the light is dying out so early these days, we got an hour and a half on the trails before we headed back to the parking lot.  Looks like our next rides will be with lights (lame!).  Post-ride though we headed out to the Dog and Pony in Renton and were pleased to find they had some Georgetown Lucille on tap.  So we emptied that keg out, got some good food in our bellies and headed home. 

If all of that wasn't enough the team has also held a number of women's only rides through the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance ride calendar.  Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance is a mountain bike advocacy organization located in Washington and they hold trail work parties, engage local government and agencies to continue to build and develop trails throughout the northwest.  They also manage and provide a large ride calendar and list of local trails, current conditions, directions and sometimes maps as well.  We highly encourage you to check them out and if you're interested in riding, get involved with them. 

For the ladies we have created a Facebook group for Sturdy Bitch Racing.  If you're interested in riding with other gals in the Seattle area, feel free to apply to join.  We usually post links to the rides on the ride calendar and there is often discussion on rides and races and "all things bike".

OK, that's it for now.  Hope the rest of your summer shake out sunny and beautiful and you get lots of time on the trails!

Today we had our first ride in a series of four where we'll do a ride with the ladies on some local trails, and then partake in some of that amazing Georgetown Beer at a local watering hole. 

This week we headed out to Black Diamond towards Crystal Mountain.  We did a pre-ride of some of the trails we'll be riding next week at the Black Diamond Xterra.  A few of us started out with an early morning swim - getting into wet suits in a light mist and heading out towards the island we'll be crossing over next Sunday during the swin.  The water was nice and warm and temperatures were pretty reasonable.  After the swim we headed over to meet the rest of the ladies at the Swinging Arm Pub in Black Diamond where we would start the mountain bike portion of the day. 



The misty rain continued as we headed out onto the trails.  We broke into two groups, one wanting a more meandering pace, the others moving a little more quickly through.  We rode for 2.5 hours and the other group, due to a broken chain rode for 3 hours or so. 

We met up inside the Swinging Arm Pub where they kindly swapped out a keg so we could snag a couple of pitchers of that lovely lady Lucille.   If you haven't met Lucille, she's a darn tasty IPA, check her out, we think you'll like what you taste.

We had some good food and some great beer and started for home.  As we made our way onto the roads, we noticed the skies had finally cleared and the sun was coming out again.  We're crossing our fingers that the weather holds and we'll have blue skies and dry trails come next Sunday.

Huge thanks to the ladies that came out today.  Had a great time riding with everyone.  If you missed this one, we have 3 more rides in the Bikes, Bitches and Beer Ride Series.  To find those rides as well as other Sturdy Bitch Rides, go to the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance website to find one and sign up.

The last 3 of the BBB Series will be at:

• Paradise Valley and the Main Street Ale House in Bothell
• The Tapeworm and the Dog and Pony in Renton
• Tokul West and the Last Frontier Tavern in Fall City

You can also find our group on Facebook under Sturdy Bitch Racing.

Hope to see you on the trails soon!

Wow, summer is really just moving along in spite of the fact the summer “sun” just hasn’t decided to consistently show it’s face here in Washington.  That part has been pretty lame but we have been lucky that our events have had some decent weather so we’ll count the last few weeks as successful.

Early in June 4 Sturdy Bitches headed east of the mountains to find sun, some climbing, and beer.  We found all 3 in abundance at the Bavarian Bike & Brew in Leavenworth.  The race in Leavenworth served up 1800’ of climbing in an 9 mile lap so with beginners doing 1, sport doing 2 and expert doing 3 laps (sucka Katie) we definitely got some elevation in and some fun flowy down as well.  Susan, Katie, Marie (with Josh in tow) and Kathy had a great time racing Freund Canyon and we were super-stoked that Georgetown Beer was pouring Manny’s at the beer garden.  Katie took the lone SB podium spot and Marie’s knee gave her some trouble with all the climbing but post-ride we moved our tent, banners and gear into the beer garden to listen to some music, eat some post-ride food and drink tasty Georgetown beer.   Got our servings  of Vitamin D and a sunburn as well so we got the trifecta we were looking for that weekend.

 

June 11^th, Angela headed over to Chelan County to do the Echo Valley 60-Miler.  Did I mention she’s crazy???  I’m tired just thinking about 60 miles but Angela excels at long distance endurance race"s and this was no exception.  While just missing the podium, even in the heat, Angela blazed a trail through the dust and conquered the entire 60 miles.  Hopefully she got to join Hernan for some pool time as I know he whiled away some time at the pool while she suffered in the heat on the bike.  For Angela's ride report - see this link to her blog.

 

The following weekend -  a few of us headed east down to the Ashland Super D.  For those unfamiliar with The Ashland Super D it takes place down in southern Oregon and it is a 12 mile super-D with only 600’ of climbing and a whopping 3,000’ of descent.  It’s a fun mix of single track berms, road, switchbacks, rock gardens, etc.  The race organizer was Ashland Mountain Adventures.  We were fortunate that when we arrived to find all shuttles booked for Friday to hook up with our friends and teammates to shuttle.  The only other real "glitch" was that the timing seemed to be somewhat disorganized and we were rushed to the start prior to our times and told "if you don't go now you don't get to race".  Being the Sturdy Bitch that I am I said " I paid my $65 and if you like I could stand her until my alotted start time in an hour.  I need a minute to get ready." That was a bit annoying to be pushed and I am sure other women felt the same way.  In spite of the race day shenanigans, we had a lovely time.  Ashland is such a beautiful little town and we enjoyed some good grub and a lovely farmers market throughout the weekend.  Was a little sad not to be able to hook up with Kathy and her group but it was super fun to spend time with Val (and her little tripod dog Turbo)  and shuttle with her as well.  Met Val at the Hood River Super D where they were the Hermosa Hotties – now under new sponsorship with a newly minted name “Hermosa Harlots”.

Also love that Josh (Marie's hubby) was able to McGuyver up a way to get all of us up one one shuttle.  Who knew bunge cords were sufficient to hold a bike on top of the car, make it up the freeway and up the mountain?  I was nervous but I trust engineer Josh and I wasn't disappointed!  Course that was Ady's bike up there so I wasn't completely freaking out (though she might have been)! Nice work Josh!!

 

The downside of the weekend was the truck pulling the trailer broke down.  Super-fortunately to have found a great little place in Grants Pass that took care of Jose and the rig.  With the breakdown late Friday, they diagnosed the problem Saturday morning and found parts (damn, not available until Monday!), set the trailer up on a cement pad, hooked him up to power and directed him to the BBQ.  Highly recommend Bridge Street Auto & RV in Grants Pass.  They made Jose welcome until we returned post-race and we chilled out in the lot until parts arrived Monday morning and they sent us on our way.   Got to see a cute little town (old town is adorable), ride to some local parks, see the Rogue River and enjoy the 80 degree weather and sunny skies. Fortunately Ady, Marie & Josh had their own cars and were able to shuttle around and keep us moving throughout the weekend.  Great time at yet another fun Super D.

 

Next on the agenda was this weekend.  Katie was the lone Sturdy Bitch in attendance at the Indie Series race in Winthrop.  Here’s an excerpt from her ride report.  Looks like that might be a must-do next year!

“The race went great.  Finished first and much stronger than the last Indie Series race at Leavenworth.  The course was certainly challenging starting at 4200ft with 2000+ft climb/lap.  I was loving

the 10spd XTR on the Diamondback Sortie Black for this one for sure.  Fortunately the vast majority of climbing was all on singletrack so that made it go by a bit quicker and easier.  The climbing and descending was broken up nicely with some fireroad so that I could get hydrated and fed.

 

The venue was great at Loup Loup Ski Bowl and there was a pretty good turn-out for the race.  Beer and brats afterwards in the lodge with outdoor seating was awesome to enable support and racers to hang out and cheer in comfort.  We loved being able to camp out at the race site in the truckhouse.” 

 

Sounds like they also had a kids race with her two young ‘uns  participated in.  And for those “not in the know” the truckhouse is the motor home – the kids affectionately call it the truck house. 

 

Next on the agenda will be a fast trip down to Bend for the Super D.  Gonna get crazy and do an overnighter so as not to sit in holiday traffic on Friday and Monday.  We’ll see how that all shakes out.

Oh and we just posted a series of women's rides titled "Bitches, Bikes & Beer".  Check Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance's website to sign up!   We'll do a great local ride and then hit a local watering hole that serves awesome beer from our sponsors at Georgetown Beer!

 

Hope to see you on the trails soon!!

OMG - this is going to be a quicky post but HOLY Toledo, the first race of the Oregon Super D series??? Ridiculous fun.  If you haven't been to Hood River, you better git after it.  The place is adorable, the food is amazing and the riding is freakin' crazy.

For the first in the series, the most technical of the 4 Super Ds was held at Post Canyon in Hood River, OR.  Complete with loose steeps, big berms, 400 feet of climbing, really steep downhills through the trees, a mandatory big drop (optional really big drop off a launcher ramp) and rock gardens, it was a downhillers dream.  For those of us more XC oriented it was  abit of a shock when it was wet but we quicky embraced it the day after when it dried.

I can't say they were super organized, check in was a nightmare but the shuttles were nice, if also slightly disorganized.  But, stick through the pain and enjoy the ride because baby, we will be back for more Post Canyon and more Oregon Super Ds throughout the season.  We really had a great time and for those that stayed, rumor has it that Syncline was also simply ridiculous amounts of "flies in your teeth" grins.

We also had the opportunity to meet some of the gals and ride up in the shuttle as well.  Was really a  fun experience to have a bus load of chicas run up the mountain gabbing about where they ride, who we all have in common as far as friends from near and wide.  Was especially nice to meet the Hermosa Tours girls - if you get into Hood River, definitely set up a shuttle with them.  Super-knowledgeable about the area riding and great riders themselves as well!


Pics look like all we did is eat but really I was so engaged in the riding and loving the whole experience that I was just a total slacker on any picture taking.  Way too focused on what we were riding to care about the pictures.  One dinner at a really great restaurant called Solstice across the river in Bingen, WA (see inset "stinging nettles pizza" - yes the bane of your spring riding is edible)  and then we had a great BBQ at the trailer with salmon burgers, brats, turkey burgers, salads, chicken tacos, and on and on and on with the food and of course our well-loved Georgetown Lucille and Manny's too.  So we ate well all weekend and we biked like maniacs. 

The Diamondback Sortie Blacks were amazing in the terrain.  In the mud (terrible, terrible clay-based mud) I was thinking maybe the Mission would be a better call but once it dried out the Sortie Blacks ate up everything dished out and the Wolverine Tires stuck to the trail perfectly.  Thanks Diamondback - really just gotta love those Sorties and we got tons of compliments and comments on the XTR build. 

As always the Lucille and Manny's from our awesome sponsors at Georgetown Beer was a fitting reward for a job well done.  No podiums but no injuries either.  We each came back with one or two things that we want to work on, among them, cornering, drops and skinnies.  Tons of fun with Ady, Virginia and Jenn as well as other friends and family that joined us over the weekend.  Great to also get to hang with Chicas Muertas riders Elie & Gretchen. Well done girls!

This weekend we're back at the XC stuff and headed to the Indie Series.  Next post will be results from that. Hope to see ya on the trails out there in Leavenworth!

Halleljuah, the rain held and we headed out with 6 extra Diamondback Demo bikes for our clinic participants.  Participants had bid and won an auction item that included demo bikes and a beginner clinic.  A few of the gals had some experience and others hadn't ridden a bike for years.

Diamondback was kind enough to prep and arrange for 6 bikes that included mostly Diamondback Sorties with a couple of Missions thrown in the mix.

We put some flat pedals on the bikes, geared up the girls with gear include a helmet, some knee pads and in a couple of cases some gloves.  Was a particularly amusing moment explaining the Shocker gloves by POW. Thanks POW for those gloves, not only do they perform well but they do provide some light but sometimes awkward moments of explanation!

The rain held as Kathy led the group through and introduction, why they were at the clinic and then  the basics of evaluating the bike prior to riding and doing a safety check.  Then we began covering skills including braking, shifting, neutral position and bike and body separation.  We covered ascending and descending and did a little coaching around the clearing before the group set out on a ride.  With Sturdy Bitches interspersed between the riders, the coaching moved to on the trails and everyone rode through the boot camp trail. 

Some of the group moved on to the boot camp trail while a small contingent broke off to ride the pump track and even attempt some of the lower skinnies in the clearing area.  One particularly brave participant decided she wanted to do some of the smaller drops in the clearing.  Looks like someone needs a bike, some body armor and maybe a lesson or two with Kat!  Check out Kat's website if you're looking for more women's clinics, not only does Kat breakdown the basics, she also teaches jumps and drops through her Sweetlines company.  Prior to our clinic Kat was running Jump Jam with guest instructors Tammy Donahugh of Awesomeland fame and Angi Weston as well.  Keep an eye on the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance calendar for more of Kat's clinics. 

Had a fun and successful clinic yesterday.  We want to thank our awesome sponsor Diamondback Bikes for providing the demo bikes and Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance for creating and maintaining such an awesome venue for clinics.  Duthie Hill is in Issaquah and there is really a great mix of XC, freeride and terrain appropriate for full  DH rigs at this location.  While it's not a "ride" per se, it is a great destination be able to practice and dial in your skills. 

Thanks also to our participants - they all had great attitudes and definitely put in a good solid day of working on skills.  Hope to see them on the trails soon!!

While we truly love our fair city of Seattle and the state of Washington, this year the rain, mud and dreary days were just too much for us.  We set out in search of sun.  Sturdy Bitches Ady, Jenn and myself, accompanied by fellow Washingtonians Amy and Doug set out to retrace the paths of Sturdy Bitches Angela and Kathy - both having set out for the same destination a week earlier.

Met our friends from California (escaping from the record amounts of snow in Tahoe/Truckee) in Utah in May.  First stop was Moab, Utah, that mountain biking mecca that really must be experienced by those loving fat tire fun, climbing crazy rocks, and being awed by views.

Day 1 we rode the Sovereign Trail - this was to get us warmed up and exposed to the heat (hallelujah!), the sand and the slickrock.  We met Sturdy Bitch Angela for one ride in Moab before they started on to their next destination.  We quickly got the first endo out of the way (ouch Doug!) and with a few bandages finished up that first ride smiling in the sun.  Was a bit windy but we tempered that with some Georgetown Lucille for a post-ride celebratory beer.  Was wonderful to have a couple of kegs on tap in the back of the truck - Georgetown Brewing Company makes minis kegs which were perfect for the trip.  Highly recommend checking out their website for those in the Seattle area and considering bringing this stuff along.  Nothing quite like a damn fine beer on a hot day!  After some discussion, Doug decided to head down and have his arm checked out. With some XRays and a brace we saw them in the camp later - ah and reminder for next time, avoid the clinic (they don't - or at least this time - take insurance - go to the Moab hospital!). 


Day 2 dawned - well it must have but we didn't see a sunrise due to clouds, rain, hail and thunderstorms. Damn - must have followed us.  In Moab (and Fruita) there's no riding in the rain - in Seattle we just git to it otherwise we'd never hit the trails. The soil in Moab and Fruita is different so in deference to the delicate trails we decided to head to Arches.  A pile of yard tools reminded us that wherever we go there are groups putting in the time to maintain the trails and reminded us to shed a little cash towards the maintenance as well.  As we drove through checking out the amazing rock formations the sun made short appearances periodically and occasionally the rain spit on us a bit.  We got a short hike around the area and made our way back to our little cabins at the Moab Valley RV Resort.  Clean, reasonably priced, showers and little cabins.  Not bad accomodations for those on a budget.

With the weather clearing and the trails quickly drying out we headed out to Amasa Back. Another Moab classic trail that is primarily slickrock.  It's an out and back with great views and we got lots of practice on uphill obstacles along the way.  With time passing and sun starting to sink down we turned from the views and blasted back down to the bottom for our date with Lucille.  As we hit the bottom we met a couple from Seattle one of whom races for another local team, with a trail recommendation to them we hit the cars.  We had also met  a nice couple from France and shared some Lucille with them before we packed up and headed  to town for some well-earned grub. 


Day 3 the weather looked pretty good so we decided to book a morning shuttle and chance getting out on Porcupine Rim and having it be a bit sketchy.  It was cold when we were picked up and Coyote Shuttle Service (operates out of Chile Pepper Bike Shop)  took us on a "Mr. Toad's Wild Ride", reminiscent of a bygone shuttle driven by Marla Streb out to China Camp.  I could see Amy leaning in away from the cliffs on the side of the road as our driver tore up the mountain to drop us off.  We didn't get as far up on the trail as we would have liked but where we did get dropped it was snowing so I think that was good enough for us.  As usual, Porcupine Rim served up slickrock goodness, incredible views and drop after drop after drop.  This ride is always a good time and should not be missed.  The weather turned hot and sunny and we shed clothes before we crossed over the creek and headed down the last technical section that runs above the Colorado River.  Here's where we had mishap number 2.  Jenn had been riding well and must have just gotten a little distracted and endo'd possibly breaking her nose and getting dinged up.  Damn!!  Yvette evaluated, we got Jenn cleaned up and sent the rest of the riders down with the plan being that they would finish the ride, bust out the road ride back to the campsite and snag a car and come and get us.  Jenn was a trooper, with the bleeding stopped we walked/rode back out to the bottom of the trail for our shuttle back home.














Day 4 we were going to be heading out to our respective next destinations...the Californians towards home and the Washingtonians a little further east to Fruita, Colorado (with a side trip to take Ady to the Grand Junction airport for her return home).  Knowing this was our last day we decided to get up early (5am???) and ride the Slickrock Trail in the hope of seeing the sunrise.  We didn't quite see the sunrise but there was only one car in the parking lot when we hit this incredibly popular ride.  We saw that rider heading out with his dogs, after that, we saw not a soul until we were almost back to the cars.  Was absolutely amazing to be out riding this trail that sees thousands or riders without any company at all.  So much fun and really a treat to stick to the rock and climb (when your legs and lungs let you) up inclines you wouldn't believe you could.  As we departed cars were starting to arrive and a few riders were headed out.  We on the other hand were headed to the Love Muffin - this is another must-see in Moab.  Really, really good coffee and southwestern inspired breakfast to die for.  As we walked into the Love Muffin we found our injured duo of Jenn and Doug enjoying a leisurely breakfast.  We finished every bite put in front of us and plotted our next steps of the trip and then said our tearful goodbyes to the California crew.  Fortunately I'd be seeing them, if all goes well, in October in Downieville. Next stop, Fruita, Colorado.

On our way from Utah to Colorado we were pleasantly surprised to find a real live cattle drive going on.  While the cowboys had their fancy sunglasses on and their cell phones I'm sure, they also were decked out in true cowboy style and their little cattle dogs (dang, missing mine!) were keeping the cows together as they moved the herd across the highway.  Very cool little distraction from the miles of farmland we were traveling!

As we arrived into Fruita we had thunder and lightning - yeah!  Not when you're planning on camping.  We checked out the campsite which normally is more than satisfactory.  This time, with rain threatening and thunder booming in the background we decided to go in search of a hotel for the night.  After a little negotiating, Doug got us a couple of good rooms at the Comfort Inn and we headed into town in search of coffee and a snack.  They grabbed their coffee and I decided on pizza at the Hot Tomato - just a slice prior to dinner of course.   We returned to the Hot Tomato Pizzeria for dinner that night and planned to get up at a reasonable hour to try our luck on some Fruita trails. 

Thankfully Day 5 dawned beautiful and clear and the storm had passed through. We headed out to the Kokepelli trails, Doug to see how his hand held up without the brace and Jenn with a bandage here and there to keep out the dust.  We did the "easy loop" to see how everyone was doing and then headed up towards Molly's Loop and Horsethief Bench.  The trails were in great shape with the terrain and the landscape being just a bit different than Moab.  The trails in Fruita were a little grittier and sandier with less rock but just as lovely.  We made the trek down into Horstheif Bench (well worth a little hike a bike) and then followed Molly's back to the cars - we decided on, yes - again - pizza at the Hot Tomato, to take a nap, and then to get back up and come back out to do the short loop and a trail run. 














Day 6 we split the group again and Jenn and Doug headed home and Amy and I set out towards home with a quick stop in Park City on the menu.  With late snow only the lower trails were open in Park City but we met up with Greg Balch, president of the Mountain Trails Foundation.  Park City has made some great strides for biking and trail access.  They have voted in bonds to maintain open space and they have worked with landowners, developers and the city to make sure that all neighborhoods have biking/hiking trails within them so that the entire city is connected and you can travel by bike darn near anywhere.  Greg showed us a few trails so we could spin our legs out and he told us about a movie premier that evening.  We met up with Greg and his family for the premier of One Revolution.   One Revolution is about local, Park City resident Chris Waddell.  Chris was a promising young skiier who was injured in a skiing accident.  He came back to skiing as a parapalegic skiier on the US Ski Team.  Chris decided to climb Kilamanjaro - on a four-wheeled hand crank bike.  If you have a chance to see the movie it is very inspiring.  After dinner at a local pub we headed back home to pack up so we could head out in the morning.

Overall an incredible trip - we rode diverse trails, our Diamondback Sortie Blacks embraced them all, we drank damn fine beer, we got a little bit of a sunburn and we made a few memories.  Below are the places we stayed, some of the restaurants, and the trails we rode.  Recommend going to Moab in May or October - those in between months are too damn hot and the months outside those unpredictable for weather.  If you love the fat tires - get out there and ride this stuff.  It really is not to be missed.









Moab
Stayed - Moab Valley RV Resort
Ate - The Love Muffin, Moab Brewery, Pasta Jay's, Fiesta Mexicana - we really wanted to try Miguel's Baja Grill but the damn thing was never open. Hilite of the food was definitely the Love Muffin.
Shuttle - Coyote Shuttle
Rode - Sovereign Trail, Amasa Back, Porcupine Rim, Slickrock

Fruita
Stayed - The Comfort Inn but the James Robb State Park is also really good
Ate - The Hot Tomato Cafe & Pizzeria
Rode - Kokepelli Trails - Rustler to Horsethief Bench to Molly's Loop....recommend Bookcliffs too but we just didn't make it there

Park City
Stayed - The Pathman's House - sorry they don't take reservations but HUGE thanks for letting us crash your pad!
Ate - Butcher's Chop House, Whole Foods (stockin' the cooler for the return trip home)
Rode - Round Valley  *Gotta go back when the snow is a little higher up!

Sturdy Bitch Racing is about racing, about riding with the girls, and about being on our bikes.  But it's a bit bigger than that.  Not only do we want to enjoy our time on the bike, hang out, and get more fit, but we want to give back too. 

We raise money for the Breast Cancer Fund as out primary charity but we have a couple of other things we like to do too.  We love supporting Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and we love all the work they do to keep trails open, maintained, and their work in developing new trails such as Colonnade and Duthie Hill. 

But this weekend was about "The Next Generation".  In 2010, the Washington High School Cycling League was formed.  With the efforts of Lisa Miller and countless others, the league formed, gained some coaches and teams at high schools across Washington, and they put on two races in 2011.  The Washington High School Cycling League was formed to provide competitive mountain biking programs for students in grades 9 to 12. 

We were pleased to have the opportunity to volunteer as course marshalls for race #2.  As course marshalls our job was to make sure the kids crossed the roads safely, to encourage them through the course, and to be there in the event of any injuries.  Other volunteer opportunities included sweeping, timing, registration and more.  Ady, Marie, Virginia, Jenn and I headed out on a beautiful Sunday morning to put in volunteer time as a team.

The race was out at joint base Fort Lewis / McCord south of Tacoma.  We had an opportunity to preride the course before the kids got out on it and it was  blast.  While mostly double track, it had alot of short steep climbs, descents, some good switchbacks too.  Was reminded of Seafair momentarily as a huge jet ramped up it's engines and took off down the runway and then sailed away through the trees above the trails we were riding on.

Shift one was during the girls race.  It was awesome to see the effort and enthusiasm the girls put into their 3 laps.  There was quite a mix - from the die hard XC, "in it to win it" girls, to the "work horse" working my way steadily up, to the "chatty, friendly girls just having fun".  My post was great because I could see them coming, encourage them through the short climb with some positive words, then watch them come around and gather some speed as they started to descend towards the road. 

The races are over for the year but there is lots of opportunity to help with next year.  There are fundraisers to plan, committees to help determine how scholarships will be allocated, and how donations of bikes and gear will be divvied up.  If you're interested in helping out or have something to donate, reach out to the folks running the league.  As the league grows and gets up and running they could certainly use the help and it's a great way to give back to the sport that gives you so much joy.  

So please consider helping with the league with the Washington High School Cycling League or helping build and maintain some of the trails you ride with the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance.  Both are great organizations keeping mountain biking healthy and growing in the Washington area.  Then, when some asks you, what have you done for the sport lately, you'll be able to proudly let them know that you contributed to the growth of our sport and helping us and local youth enjoy the amazing trails in Washington.

Oh and volunteer as a course marshall and you too will get to wear one of those awesome orange vests - one size fits all, I think not. 

Looking forward to seeing you on the trails soon Bitches!!

By Marie Engstrom

The Northwest Cup series kicked off its downhill race season in early April with the first event at Dry Hill in Port Angeles.  Kathy, Ady and Marie ventured over to shuttle, race and check out the pros.  We were excited to see that Diamondback was the new title sponsor of the series!  This first race was part of the ProGRT series which draws professional downhill mountain bikers from far and wide so it was extra fun to see how the pros get it done.

I headed over Friday morning for the 3 day event and was excited to be treated to great views of the Olympics and sunny skies.  This was my first DH event so the prospect of a sun filled weekend of riding eased the butterflies in my stomach.  For events like this the trails and access roads are opened up for shuttling 2 or 3 days before the race for practice runs.  Trucks are provided to haul groups of riders and their big squishy bikes up to the top of the hill to then rip down the trails and do it again.  The Cat 2 course, which I raced, had a bit of everything – tight turns, straight fast sections, steep rollers, technical roots and a few drops.  Days 1 and 2 involved getting familiar with the trails, checking out the more technical sections, picking lines, catching up with friends and riding until our legs gave up.  The much welcome sun and great trail conditions had us headed home each day with smiles on our faces.

Sunday was race day, wahoo!  The rain held off over night and while the skies were gray, we were all thankful that the course hadn’t been soaking water in all night.  The 3 of us ran in the womens Cat 2 class - what a great turnout of ladies!  The number of women racing in Cat 2 doubled from the 2010 races, a great way to kick off the series.  Our start times weren’t until early afternoon so we were able to watch and cheer for some of the Cat 1 racers as they finished at the bottom.  We shuttled up to the top one last time and while we were waiting our luck ran out and the rain started to come down.  I was a little nervous that this might change the course conditions but the previous days runs had been such a good time that I tried to focus on that instead.  The race run itself was over before we knew it!  While it had gotten a little slick and sloppy in spots, the course overall was great and we all had a ton of fun.  When I got to the finish Kathy was waiting there with the biggest grin on her face!  She pretty much summed it up when she said “That was SO much fun!  Can we do it again?  Let’s do it again!”

Before heading home we had the opportunity to watch the pros run down the hill.  Their course consisted of different trails with some newly cut sections that had everyone guessing what the fast line would be.  By that point the rain had settled in but the pros hardly seemed to notice.  Diamondback pro rider Kyle Thomas was riding a prototype of their new DH bike; we’re all eager to hear how that bike comes out and hopefully check it out when it’s complete.   The pros really knew how to put on a good show.  It really was amazing to see them fly through the tech sections and rail the turns at speeds most of us can just imagine.   First place for the pro men went to Danny Hart. For the women, local lady Jill Kintner took home the gold medal. 

There will be more races at Dry Hill throughout the summer, including XC races.  The Olympic Dirt Society along with volunteers do a great job if keeping these fun trails in shape, check them out when you get the opportunity.
 

Short report - lots of pics!  If you're interested in all of the pictures take a look at the photo strip on the front page.  That will take you to the Flickr site where you can browse these and other race/bike pics to your hearts content.

As we had almost our full team (minus Angela) we got a quick team picture with almost everyone in it (finally!) in our awesome new kits. 

Well, the Budu Series is over and the longer races will be beginning soon.  The Budu Races are always great to get the season rolling and we had a great time on or Diamondback Sortie Blacks.  Over the course of the Series we had 22 entries and of those entries we had 13 podium (1st through 3rd) visits.  Within the Series, Marie took 4th in Sport in her age Group, Susan took 3rd in Sport in  her age group and Katie took 1st in Export in her age group.  Overall a great result for Sturdy Bitch Racings 2nd year as a team.  Great job ladies!!!

Race 6 was at Henry's Ridge in Black Diamond, WA.  I had never entered from that side so we rode some terrain we had never been on.  The course was a fun, rooty and in some case muddy experience but the day stayed nice and dry and warm (except for a weird hail storm for 5 minutes midway through the race).  There were some fun steep downhill switchbacks that gave some folks some trouble but the course was alot of fun with some great singletrack. The venue was great though with reasonable parking and an area to gather for awards.  Was good to see some family support out and overall it was a great day.

As far as race results for the 6th and final race in the series, Virginia took 2nd in Sport, Katie took 2nd in Expert, Susan 2nd in sport, and Kathy 2nd in Beginner.  Afterwards of course we headed over as a team to have a few Manny's at the Swinging Arm Pub in Black Diamond and to post-race refuel with some food. 

With our series winnings, $11 between Marie and I we were able to buy a couple of our favorite (Georgetown Beer)  Manny's and finish off the day on high. 

Looking forward to whatever is next - gotta check the calendar and see what's coming up. 

See ya on the trails soon Bitches!!

Race 3 of the Budu Racing Series took place out in Issaquah at Soaring Eagle State Park.  What can I say, this one was a mud pit.  The course itself is not terribly technical but there are definitely some fun little sections.  Four Sturdy Bitch Racers entered and two hit the podium.  Congrats to Katie and Virginia - Katie for a 1st place in Expert and Virginia for a 2nd place in Sport.  Goooo Bitches!!

Race 4 of the Budu Racing Series was out at Fort Ebey.  Think this is going to be one of my favorites all season, not so much for the race itself but because the drive out there is beautiful, the weather was a pleasant surprise, and I got to spend an entire weekend with Bandit.  Normally you'd think, a weekend with the dog - not super exciting.  For us though, with 3 dogs, it's rare to travel with all the dogs, it's rare to travel with just one, and it's even more rare for it to be just "me and the dog".  But...let's start from the beginning.

Fort Ebey is out on Whidbey Island and it was a coastal defense position in World War II.  Concrete areas mark the gun locations along 3 miles of beach (note there is no actual beach access from the park - you're on a bluff above the beach).   There are also miles and miles of trail to hike and bike and the state park has showers, hookups, etc.  On a side-note though, if you like history and old military sites, look up Fort Casey - i don't think there are bike trails but there are bunkers to explore and lots of underground bunkers, tunnels, and turrets and it is a great historical site for kids and adults to explore. 

It has been raining consistently in the week since Race 3 the weekend before and the forecast was for, you guessed it, more rain.  The ferry was out of service and that was yet another negative - that meant you either had to take the Edmonds ferry and drive further up or drive up and around Deception Pass.  Normally I have no issues getting up early and getting to a race.  For some reason, I just wasn't motivated to drive on Sunday morning and no one wanted to camp so I wasn't going to drag the trailer up and over.  As the weekend approached, interest in the race was low so, knowing my friend Sara would be up there, I made the call to just drive over Saturday and sleep in the back of the truck with the Bandit.   Katie, Marie and Ady were going to drive over the next day though Ady & Marie were still on the fence. 

So, a girl and her dog headed out and up I-5 towards Deception Pass.  We got sprinkled on a little but the day was sunny and I was hopeful I'd get a pre-ride in before the predicted rain came through.  If you haven't been through Deception Pass, and I hadn't been for many years, it's a beautiful area.  Deception Pass is located at the northern end of Puget Sound, is a treacherous, narrow channel with turbulent waters, rapid tidal action, and rocky outcrops.It separates the high bluffs of Whidbey Island from those of Fidalgo Island.   So, in typical tourist style, since it had been more than 20 years since I had been through the area, I stopped at the lookout and took in the view.  I walked across the bridge, down to the trails below and was, once again, awed by nature.  I love my bike, but I did  have a moment to reflect that when I used to hike, I "saw more" and had a little more time to stop and smell the roses or whatever little plants I saw along my path.  So, I'll save the hiking for a few more years and stay on the bike until I'm worried I'll "break a hip".  So - 'nuff said - beautiful sunny day, amazing views of the inlat, the sound, the Olympic mountain range, the islands, the kayakers in the rapids, and back to the truck. 

Finished up the two-hour drive and got to the park to find sun and about 5 campsites left.  Got the bike out, and headed out to see if the course was marked yet.  Turned out it wasn't and I wandered through what I remembered of the course for an hour or so, snapped a few pictures and headed back to the campsite to see if Sara and their crew had arrived.  They weren't there yet so Bandit and I wandered down to the bluff, caught the view our soldiers had when they manned the turrets in defense of our country back in World War II. We breathed in deep, the wind blown, salt-laden air.  Cold but sunny, an absolutely amazing day.  Think Bandit could feel it as he was pulling on the leash and seemed to be feeling a little salty himself.   We got our fill of the view, the flowers and the cold air and headed back to camp, passing the Cub Scouts doing their part to clean up the trails.  Thanks guys!!

Went out and got one more pre-ride in with Sara, this time with the course mostly marked, and we got a lap in before it was time to cook up some dinner, snuggle up with the dog in the back of the truck and hold our breaths that the good weather and the sun would stick around for Sunday's race. 

Fortunately for us, the rain shadow over Whidbey is more than a rumor - it stayed warm, dry, and the sun came out as we started our race.  The course has a fair amount of climbing but mostly in short bursts.  It begins with a quick sprint to the single track and immediately into a rooty descent with a few switchbacks thrown in and then straight up a root-strewn hill that caught some by surprise (yeah pre-rides!).   After that it ducked and dived through more root and rock ascents before smoothing out into buff single track.  The single track climbed through a few areas with double track, a few muddy sections, and threw more roots/rocks in up switchbacks before dumping is out towards the bluff area.  The trail became a little sandier but with good traction and another big switchback climb.  As you turned away from the bluffs, you head back town a path of pine needles that welcomed you back into the trees through a fun ripping descent.  One more climb and up and out for lap 2.   The course has a great mix of climbing, fun single track, technical ascents and descents. Definitely one to keep on your radar as a ride or to add to next years races. 

After my race I grabbed a snack and Bandit and I came out and waited for Katie's Expert laps to finish.  We had a beautiful sunny day, he got lots of attention from people and Katie got first in Expert.  A great day for Sturdy Bitch Racing and an amazing weekend with Bandit the Wonderdog.  So far in my life I've lost 2 dogs and that was one of the worst things.  Remembering this weekend hanging out with the dog will always be with me even when, years and years from now, he won't be.  Bandit - you really are a wonder dog and as we always say, the "Best Dog Ever"!

OK - enough of that crap - gotta get the bike ready to hit the muddy trails again.  Ride on Bitches!!