Blodgett, OR - In its 4th year, the Test of Endurance is gaining a foothold as one of the greatest endurance mountain bike race courses in the Northwest. Not only is the event dual billed as the "Northwest Singlespeed Championships", but it is a unique format that focuses on the TEAM element for the overall prize money.If you are not familiar with the race format, there are two long 25 mile laps that all racers must complete over a variety of terrain. The challenge is not purely due to the sheer length, but by over 8,000' of climbing and some fabulously challenging technical descending. The TEAM format is such that you add up the finishing time of the four fastest racers on your team with a goal of having the lowest overall combined time. A lot can go wrong in 50 miles and it can be helpful to have team mates to encourage you, or lend a hand when/if things go wrong.
This year, optimistic racers lined up to see if it was in any way possible to dethrone team S&M from the top step of the podium. After 4 years in a row, it appears that that may be impossible, considering the raw talent that their team is made of. Anyone ever tried to ride Erik Tonkin's wheel?
The Collins team did well, finishing 4th overall! Composed of Chris Brandt, Mike Adams, Carl Gurney, Justin Thayer, and the infamous Luke DeMoe. Luke borrowed Guy Polson's Specialized 29'er mtb and raced in the dirt for the first time in 5 years. Not only did he finish, but he managed to down a Pabst beer at the last aid station. Tough guy.
Individual Results:
Chris Brandt: 9th - Pro men (4:19:08)
Mike Adams: 8th - Expert men 40+ (4:56:20)
Carl Gurney: 7th - Singlespeed (4:58:17)
Luke DeMoe: 12th - Expert (5:00:10)
Justin Thayer: 13th - Singlespeed (5:31:55)
More pics here.
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