Colorado’s ‘Traverse’ Nordic Race Not For The Faint Of Heart
A nice writeup of the Elk Mountain Grand Traverse, a classic Colorado Nordic ski race from Crested Butte to Aspen, appears on Dave Wiens’ blog. Dave is from Colorado, a pro mountain biker, Leadville 100 champ, and our favorite Lance slayer.
Although the Traverse is a transition event for mountain bike competitors, for Wiens and the other perpetual competitors this race is not to be taken lightly by anyone. Indeed, competitors must negotiate not only each other, but the elements as well. Skiers race through the night in pairs, carrying their aid and survival gear (getting pinned down is a real possibility), and winners finish some 7-9 or more hours later. Frostbite is one of the more likely injuries.
Yes, it sounds like tremendous potential for misery. Yet given Wiens’ experience, when he says, “…if someone told me I could only do one event each year this would be it”, that’s quite an endorsement. Take a look at his post and read about his exciting finish line surge at this Colorado classic.
