THE Open MTB Relay

Intergalactic mountain bike bragging rights were up for grabs last weekend in Marysville, PA.   Roughly 400 brave riders tackled a tight, log ridden, three mile course for four hours in THE International Intergalactic Global Open Mountain Bike Team Relay Championship of the Multi-Friggin-Verse.  If the name seems intimidating, I believe people just call it THE Open MTB Relay for short.  Regardless of the race’s prestigious, lengthy name it’s a rad event with a cool format that makes for a stellar early season event. 

Giant family and friends were at THE Open MTB Relay in full force. The four-person Giant Mid-Atlantic Off Road Team included Callie, Matt, Jordan, and myself.  George Shriver, Levi Olsen, and Levi’s friend James McClammer made up the “Go Giant or go home!” three-person squad.  And to be well rounded Josh Fonner rode in the “MF’ing Solo” category.  It was great kicking it with these guys in between hot laps. 

Matt Miller putting in some consistent laps on his Trance X 29er! (Pic. Cred: A.E. Landes)

The course was short, but downed logs and tight single-track made passing racers challenging.  I was lucky to ride the last lap of the day.   Encountering minimal traffic, I scored the fastest lap not only in Marysville, PA, the east-coast, the US, the world, but somehow managed the fastest lap encompassing all that is outer space.

Yours truly doing a pretty gross wheelie.  (Pic. Cred:  Mateus Kaplan)    

My only pet peeve for the day was racers lacking respect for their competition.  Sanctioned, non-sanctioned, forbidden or allowed remember that when you’re racing and want to pass someone be polite, be respectful, and know when to pass.  There’s no reason why adults should aggressively belittle one another especially kids.  I saw some pretty embarrassing actions out on the course.  So wise up, help grow the sport of bike racing…I dare you to be positive.   Sorry for the rant. 

Heads up:  little shredders everywhere! ( Pic. Cred:  Mateus Kaplan)

THE Open MTB Relay definitely lit a fire for this upcoming season!  Make sure you sign up next year if you like fun, challenging, well run events.  Next race on the schedule will be The Greenbrier Challenge…

-Ryan