GUNBARREL 25 / EARN YOUR BEER / GEAR WE LOVE / EVENT PROFILES
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2019 ISSUE #107
2019 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR
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BACKCOUNTRY TOURS
BRAD GOBRIGHT FULLY COMMITTED TAHOE NORDIC SKI LEGEND Doug Read
Made in California Western Mountaineering
GEAR CHECK | FAST & LIGHT HYDRATION
Pocket Power Weight and ergonomics matter—whether on a oneday summit bid or a long weekend fastpacking loop. These racking-up-miles-and-vertical missions are no
Katadyn BeFree Filtration System 0.6 L
place for water to be sloshing around a half-filled, heavy metal water bottle. Instead, maximize pocket space with a HydraPak flexible bottle—such as the SoftFlask 750 ml, which weighs in at a scant 2.3 ounces. Or the 500 ml Stow that tips the postal scales at 1.5 ounces and tucks away into its own handle when empty. And even with an in-line filter, the Katadyn BeFree 0.6 L, with HydraPak-made flexible bottle, is just 2.3 ounces. Flexible bottles have the benefit of shrinking around the remaining water as you drink it down, which eliminates sloshing in your pocket or pack. As the kicker, all three of these products from gram-shaving pioneer HydraPak are built from ultra-durable TPU material—essentially survival insurance if your drinking vessel takes a tumble from a high point. Now if only they could dehydrate water.
SpeedCup 200 ml
SoftFlask 750 ml
Stow 500 ml expanded and collapsed
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CONTENTS February/March 2019 #107
features
10 12
Western Mountaineering
Quality gear made in San Jose
Brad Gobright
Fully committed free soloist
departments
6 7 8
Editor’s Note
Hippy Capitalism
Inbox
ASJ readers chime in
Ear to the Ground News & notes
16 18 20 15 21 22 24
Three Backcountry Tours From beginner to expert
Doug Read
Tahoe City’s Nordic ski legend
Gunbarrel 25
Getting dropped by an 8-year-old
Photo: Laura Read
10
16
Gear We Love
Goodies for an active lifestyle
Earn Your Beer
5-Peak Challenge, San Diego
Event Profiles
Featured upcoming events
Keeper Calendar
2019 Essential Race Calendar
Cover Michelle Parker transitioning from boot backing to skinning while backcountry skiing in Lake Tahoe, NV. Photo: Ming Poon
Photo: Brennan Lagasse
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DON’T MISS AN ISSUE – Subscribe to ASJ Mail a check for $20 to PO Box 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 along with subscriber name and address, or order online at adventuresportsjournal.com/subscribe.
Photo: Troy Corliss
Photo: Chris Van Leuven
OUR ROOFTOP TENTS ARE BUILT TO GET WAY OUT THERE. MOUNT IT ON TOP, CARVE OUT YOUR NEW TRAIL, THEN CRASH IN ELEVATED COMFORT. #ENDLESSADVENTURE
Photo: Year of Endless Adventure 2018 Team Dafugahwee 4 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
TEPUI.COM
asj contributors what do you consider an essential part of a good snow adventure? PUBLISHING + EDITORIAL
leoniesherman
Sunscreen is an essential part of any spring snow adventure. I’ve been sunburned inside my nostrils and hope nobody ever shares that agony!
kurtgensheimer
Ooh ... I have a good answer, and very succinct. “Good snow.”
chrisvanleuven
I’m on my snowy porch in Yosemite as I write this. Got my dog by my side and a hot cup of coffee. Guess that’s it — a good dog and a hot drink are essential for a good snow adventure.
brennanlagasse
An open and alert mentality. You’ll be more in tune with your surroundings, adaptable to change, and ever aware that no matter how the snow skis, if you’re skiing, you’re having a good day!
timhauserman
PUBLISHER Cathy Claesson cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com MANAGING EDITOR Michele Charboneau michele@adventuresportsjournal.com COPY EDITOR Jennifer Stein jen@adventuresportsjournal.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Leonie Sherman, Chris Van Leuven, Kurt Gensheimer, Brennan Lagasse, Tim Hauserman, James Murren CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ming Poon, Fred Pompermayer, Tom Servais, Brennan Lagasse, Chris Van Leuven, Ben Fish, Amy Fish, Troy Corliss, Scott Rokin, Laura Read, Kasey Carames, Kaori Photo, Called To Creation, Samuel Crossley, James Murren LAYOUT Cathy Claesson & Michele Charboneau COVER DESIGN Juliann Klein ADVERTISING
Have you been to The Other Side?
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Cathy Claesson I 831.234.0351 cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com
Quiet stillness. That is what I find under a blanket of white while cross country skiing through the woods. EVENTS & DISTRIBUTION Nature is so simple and Matt Niswonger peaceful in the winter, and you can tap into it just a few matt@adventuresportsjournal.com ks from the lodge.
mingpoon The most important aspect of any (snow or not) adventure is a good attitude. Second would be good company, always pick good people. Third would have to be good snacks and warm clothes!
juliannklein
Awesome snow and a great adventure. It doesn’t hurt to have some amazing friends to share it with.
jamesmurren
For a true adventure, it’s essential that an unforeseen hardship/ challenge is overcome. Jack London’s “To Build a Fire” defines the winter experience for me. I’d rather not experience it that way, though.
EVENTS MARKETING Michele Charboneau michele@adventuresportsjournal.com Jennifer Stein jen@adventuresportsjournal.com Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Adventure Sports Journal or our advertisers. We usually agree with our articles, but sometimes we don’t. We welcome all contributions.
Sand Dunes, Death Valley
The Owens River
All content © Adventure Sports Journal 2019. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editors.
The Other Side Of California.
ADVENTURE SPORTS JOURNAL PO BOX 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 Phone 831.457.9453 asjstaff@adventuresportsjournal.com
Where today’s adventurers find their edge. Death Valley and the Eastern Sierra encompass more dramatic mountain and desert scenery than any region in North America. The timeless towns of Big Pine, Bishop, Death Valley, Independence and Lone Pine offer endless backcountry, camping, mountaineering, and majestic mountain vistas.
PROUD MEMBER
www.theothersideofcalifornia.com www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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Editor’s Note
Hippy Capitalism Viva Los Funhogs
A
s I write this note we are putting the final touches on Issue # 107 while preparing to travel to the Outdoor Retailer (OR) trade show in Denver later this week. For many years, OR has been the place where big, influential outdoor companies like REI, Patagonia, The North Face, and Clif Bar gather under one roof. We go twice a year to catch up with friends, learn about industry developments, and most of all to get inspired. What I admire the most about the outdoor industry is that the leading companies care as much about environmental sustainability as profitability. In contrast to almost every other industry, leading outdoor brands like Patagonia are about inspiring customers to live a life that is more in tune with nature. As a result, smaller companies follow their lead and a virtuous cycle ensues. Every time we go to OR I learn about more companies offering products that reduce, reuse, and/ or recycle. We are proud to call this our tribe: the outdoor misfits who want to change the world for the better and make a living at the same time. In my mind, the modern outdoor industry was created in 1968 by hippies who realized that climbing, skiing, and surfing were far from trivial pursuits, in fact they were ways to live your life in opposition to the violence and greed of the military industrial complex. That year some hippies who called themselves the “Funhogs” left
Ventura and began traveling south, surfing and climbing their way to Argentina and a notorious mountain called Fitzroy. Their journey was described in an influential essay called Viva Los Funhogs by Yosemite climber Dick Dorworth. Included in the odyssey were Funhogs Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins, the founders of Patagonia and The North Face. What they learned on this trip changed their lives forever, and as a result shaped the modern outdoor industry. In 2012 Doug wrote: “The notions that people are in charge of nature, can effectively manage the earth solely for human ends, and can escape the ecological consequences of their own actions, are intellectually indefensible. Yet the entire collective human enterprise continues to be steered down these collective dead ends. Climate change, the extinction crisis, the depletion of resources of all kinds and resulting economic social crises can be seen
What I admire the most about the outdoor industry is that the leading companies care as much about environmental sustainability as profitability.
as the inevitable products of our collective delusional thinking …” I go to OR to recharge my batteries and remember what the outdoor industry stands for. The game we play is not “How do I make as much money as possible?” but “How do I make money while having fun and saving the world at the same time?” Something we will be discussing while at OR is a partnership we are working on for 2019 and beyond. We are excited to announce that starting soon, we will be printing most (or all) of our trademarked Earn Your Beer shirts on fabric made with recycled materials. I have been running and mountain biking in different recycled shirts to test their comfort and durability. So far the results are promising. A few issues ago I wrote an essay called “Digital Apocalypse” about how much time everyone is spending on their phones and how it is harder for print publications relying on advertising to stay profitable in the age of Facebook and Instagram. After much soul searching and helpful feedback from readers, we are excited to expand our shirt business and begin selling Earn Your Beer shirts online, hopefully creating a second revenue stream so we don’t rely completely on ad revenue. That said, how do we stay true to our hippy roots and sell shirts profitably while having fun and saving the planet at the same time? By choosing to sell shirts that are made
from recycled threads, how do we compete in the online marketplace against cheaper shirts that are made in foreign sweatshops from ecologically dubious materials? How do we play the game of hippy capitalism well enough to actually make money? Actually, here’s a better question: How to start this endeavor in the spirit of Yvon Chouinard, Doug Tompkins, Dick Dorworth, Chris Jones, and Lito Tejada-Flores, the original 1968 Funhogs? For example I can only guess how Yvon Chouinard would sell recycled shirts if he were in our shoes. That said, I’m sure it would be brilliant, simple and direct. After all, the man became a billionaire selling clothing designed to dismantle the military industrial complex one consumer at a time. In the high tech industry people love to talk about “disruptive” technologies that change human behavior on a large scale. What a hollow achievement if you don’t also help humans thrive better on earth and become more in tune with nature. That’s why Chouinard will always be the true disrupter and Patagonia the true unicorn company. If you have any words of wisdom or ideas please send me an email, I’d love to hear from you. How do we inspire people to buy shirts that are slightly more expensive but also inspire us all to change our habits? matt@adventuresportsjournal.com
—Matt Niswonger
NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE
earn your beer
®
T-SHIRTS
New designs and lots of colors to choose from.
Get in on this today! Visit earnyourbeer.com 6 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
Campfire memories from Sea Otter, 2017. ASJ editor, Matt Niswonger on the plasitc horn.
INBOX
Fanmail, Feedback, Ideas & Opinions
In response to Editor’s Note #106 Haters Back Off
DEFENSIBLE SPACE: START CUTTING! Thanks for all your efforts in publishing the magazine. I am writing to respond to your recent editorial regarding the fires and politics. I am a retired forest engineer and district conservationist. I’ve served 27 years with federal agencies, mostly forest service and natural resources conservation service — both in USDA. Based on my experience, what Trump said is not entirely wrong. He just has bad advisors. If he would have said, in these forested communities there is a growing need to reduce fuels by thinning and eliminate the fuels ladder by pruning — that would have been a better thing than raking. But for a New York guy who doesn’t understand living in the woods, that’s the best he could do. I have worked with a lot of landowners that are reluctant to treat their properties responsibly, with the result being that fires spread rapidly when the vegetation is thick and dry. If we as a society want to invest $1000 per acre on average to treat areas and reduce fuel loading, then we could get a handle on the problem. However, once the winds get going nothing will stop it, as evidence look at the fact that the houses being so close together were set ablaze by the house next door. That is what happened in Paradise as well as Santa Rosa and Napa the year before. I would go to meetings and always say that defensible space means seeing your neighbor, so start cutting. That said, I do agree that blue state taxes pay for red state welfare but that’s another conversation to have. Keep up the good work. — Mike, Grass Valley WHAT ABOUT PG&E? Though I agree with you on California and disaster funds, you didn’t mention that PG&E had something to do with this disaster. They are now on criminal probation for the fire in San Bruno, and the insurance companies are suing PG&E for the Butte County fires. Visitors from Europe scratch their heads asking, ”What? You still have power lines?” In most of Western Europe the Power Grid is all underground. Hearing Trump compare Butte County
with Finland, a country with a very different climate, standing next to Governor Brown and Governor Newsom, telling them that they should just rake the forest, was not only extremely embarrassing, but I felt sorry for the two Governors that looked like they found themselves in an alternate universe. I would have liked though, if they responded, telling him what a ridiculous suggestion that is, but I guess they both were too perplexed and didn’t believe what they just heard. — Shelley Burke, Nevada City
CHECK YOUR FACTS I found your article to be rather full of talking points rather than being objective. Your political opinions were more of the subject matter than the matter in question — fire management within the state of California. And what is your background in fire management? Or fire suppression for that matter? Judging from what you wrote, not much I imagine due to the lack of specifics in your opinion. You can have your opinions, but talking points do not replace experience. I’ll give you mine, first I have degrees in Natural Resource Management, with majors in Forestry. Since the environmental community places so much on education, that settles that. Second, to finance my education, I have been in fire management going on 24 seasons. All which have been within the state of California. Currently, I am an active Smokejumper in the state, spent my time on and in the trenches with Federal Hotshot crews etc. Now to educate you further, I have seen the changes that have taken place over the last 25 years, when the “environmentalist” used the courts against the Forest Service and the logging industry. But I digress. You mentioned how unreasonable it is to rake forests? Physically, yes! Using fire? No. What a majority of the public doesn’t know, is the same things you don’t. After an 118 years of fire suppression [policy], we are now seeing catastrophic fire over larger geographic areas. Why? It’s not climate change. Policy, along with the fear of engaging such fires. With Smokey Bear leading the war against fire and CalFire now
is full blown “all fire is evil,” let’s discuss the issues of fire. Regarding fire in California, I am pretty sure you’re not aware of its green policies that have literally exacerbated the situation. With policies on pollution, it is almost impossible to use fire as a tool. You can thank C.A.R.B. for that. People mindlessly complain about pollution and smoke in the air. Well, history will tell you that California in the summertime was anything but clear and smoke free. The forests of the west evolved with fire. Lightning being the ignition source and the ecosystem evolved and adapted with fire. The indigenous people of California used fire as a tool. Now those of us in the business, who write burn plans, literally have to have the go-ahead from an inept state agency (CARB) on when we can burn. Your friend’s beef with the President and the former secretary are best served elsewhere. I ponder who truly is more clueless on this issue. — Tye Erwin In Response: A lot of good points here. (Your full letter is posted online.) You asked about my background. I am an IBEW 1245 journeyman lineman and a former arborist. I basically went from a tree climber to a pole climber for PG&E. I worked there for eight years and now in addition to ASJ, I work for a small company on private power lines. From my perspective any conversation on this subject has to include fire-proofing the high voltage electric grid in CA. In other words it’s more complicated than just fire suppression. More than anything, I think it was in poor taste for the president to try to score political points on the backs of people who had just lost everything.
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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Ear to the Ground
News & notes from the outdoor industry
Outside Magazine has named San Francisco based big wave surfer Bianca Valenti one of 2018’s most accomplished athletes. Other outdoor athletes recognized were climber Alex Honnold, runner Des Linden, and several others. While there is nothing physical that would preclude women from surfing giant waves, female big wave surfers have long struggled to compete for equal prize money in that exclusive arena. While competing in surf contests around the world, Valenti cofounded the Committee for Equity in Women’s Surfing. Because of her efforts (and the efforts of other committed female surfers) women will compete for equal prize money at Mavericks this year.
Sierra Snowpack on the Rise
Photo: Heavenly
As we go to press, data from the California Department of Water Resources indicates that the Northern Sierra and Central Sierra, which stretch from the Trinity Alps down to Yosemite National Park, boast a snowpack that is 115 percent of average, while the southern region, including Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, is at 110 percent. At the same time last year, California’s snowpack was 26 percent of normal; it is now four times what it was last year. This abundance of snow is courtesy of a number of storms that took place in early January.
Nevada County Bike Park in Development
Western Gateway Recreation and Park District and the Bicyclists of Nevada County (BONC) are collaborating to develop a portion of Penn Valley’s existing Western Gateway Park into a bike park facility that will enhance the area’s bike culture and create a community riding facility for all ages and abilities. Bike parks offer a family-friendly venue for the millions of bicyclists who live in urban areas to enjoy bike-optimized trails and skill-building areas. Donations and sponsors are needed for the Gateway Bike Park project. Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/gatewaybikepark.com.
San Francisco
Free Solo Nominated for Oscar
Free Solo — the best climbing film of 2018, and arguably of all time — was recently nominated for Best Feature Documentary at the 91st Academy Awards. The star of the film, world-renowned rock climber Alex Honnold, said of the nomination in a Facebook post, “What a crazy ride!” The inspiring and gripping (pun fully intended) film by E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin tells the story of Honnold’s successful endeavor to scale 3,000-foot El Capitan ... alone ... and without a rope. The Oscar nomination is a first for Vasarhelyi and Chin, and it comes as no suprise. The film has so far garnered a multitude of nominations and awards worldwide, and has earned more than $13 million in US box office sales. Read our interview with Honnold at adventuresportsjournal.com/interview-alex-honnold-star-free-solo.
Rideshare from Bay Area to Tahoe with SnowPals
SnowPals — the largest snow sports community (with 8,000+ members) on the west coast — is celebrating its 20th year of service to San Francisco Bay Area’s community of skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The grassroots organization’s core mission is to bring San Francisco Bay Area residents together to enjoy snow sports in the Lake Tahoe area and beyond. A main goal of the organization is to reduce carbon footprint impact on the environment; to that end SnowPals works diligently to encourage people to pool resources and ride share to Tahoe area resorts.Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/snowpals-makes-bay-area-to-tahoe-ride-sharing-easy.
Surfer Chris Brown Dies
The body of former pro surfer Chris Brown was found washed up on Hendry’s Beach in Santa Barbara on January 19th. As of press time the cause of death is yet to be determined, and foul play has not been ruled out. A GoFundMe account has been set up in the name of Chloe Brown, Chris’ daughter who just graduated from college. Known as the “Pride of Santa Barbara,” Brown was also a close friend of 11-time surfing world champion Kelly Slater who wrote a moving tribute to his friend on Instagram.
Oakland 101
880
880
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It’s time for an
San Jose
Adventure!
Santa Cruz
Just 40mins from San Jose!
1
Monterey
Santa Cruz Mountains | 831.430.4357 8 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
mounthermonadventures.com
Photo: Tom Servais
Photo: Fred Pompermayer
Bianca Valenti Makes 2018 Most Accomplished Athletes List
Wildflower Experience has partnered with charities including Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training (TNT) and Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) to support individuals who are racing for a cause. Programs like these prepare athletes for premier endurance challenges, creating lifelong memories that unite teammates in the pursuit of curing cancer and/ or helping physically challenged people live a fuller, healthier, and more active lifestyle. The 2019 Wildflower Triathlon takes place May 3-5 at Lake San Antonio in Monterey County, California. The three-day festival celebrates multi-sport, music, healthy living, and outdoor adventure. Registration for this popular event opens March 1. Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/wildflower-experience-2019.
NorCalUltras and Sacramento Running Association Launch Lucky Trails Jackpot Project
NorCalUltras and Sacramento Running Association (SRA) have renewed their partnership which supports a unified commitment to the running community and a passion to offer the best in class for races in Northern California. Together, they have debuted the “Lucky Trails Jackpot Project” which utilizes the strengths of both organizations to enhance the experiences of road and trail runners in the area. The goal of this project is to recognize the achievements of all participants from winners to final finishers. Runners of all skill levels at the following three races will receive various cash prizes: Way Too Cool (March 2), American River 50 Mile Endurance Run (April 6), and Rio Del Lago 100 Mile Endurance Run (November 2). Runners will receive the Lucky Trails Jackpot awards while crossing the finish line. Final times will be determined on the gun time finishing place, not chip time. Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/norcalultras-sra-partnership.
CES Announces Specialized as Title Sponsor; Debuts eMTB Categories
As temperatures climb so do adrenaline levels on California’s favorite whitewater rivers...
Photo: Called To Creation
Photo: Kaori Photo
Wildflower Partners with Charities in Support of Racing for a Cause
California Enduro Series (CES) recently announced Specialized Bicycles as title sponsor for the 2019 season. Specialized’s Marketing Leader Sam Benedict says of the partnership, “People riding trails together for fun, competition, and camaraderie … there’s not much better than that! We are happy and proud to continue supporting enduro racing along the west coast.” Additionally, 2019 marks the debut of eMTB categories at the Ensenada Enduro, China Peak Enduro, Mt. Shasta Enduro, and Mammoth Mountain Enduro. Of this much anticipated move, CES Director Steve Gemelos says, “Electric mountain bikes are proving themselves time and again as legit shred machines, and CES is happy to welcome eMTB enthusiasts to four out of the six races on our schedule this upcoming season.” Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/california-enduro-series-announcesspecialized-title-sponsor-eventregistration-dates-debut-emtb-categories.
Camp Fire Relief Efforts
Chico-area cycling group Chico Velo, in partnership with local bike shops, has established a fundraiser for cyclists affected by this past November’s devastating Camp Fire in Butte County, to help them get back out riding. Funds are distributed on a first come/first serve basis, with special consideration being given to those without insurance. Aid recipients receive a gift card to the local bike shop of their choosing. Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/chicovelo-bicycleaid. Sonoma County-based Hopper Adventures — the organization behind the popular Grasshopper Adventure Series — is pitching in as well. In collaboration with B-Rad Foundation, Hopper Adventures will donate all proceeds from its inaugural Huffmaster Hopper to Camp Fire victims. The cross/gravel cycling event takes place April 20 in Maxwell, California, and offers two routes to choose from (89 or 59 miles). Learn more at adventuresportsjournal.com/huffmaster-hopper-b-rad-benefit. Down on the Central Coast, the Big Sur Marathon Foundation is donating $110,550 to the North Valley Community Foundation for Northern California fire relief following the cancellation of the 2018 Monterey Bay Half Marathon due to smoke from the Camp Fire. 7,600 paid entrants were given the option to defer their entries or donate their entry cost to fire relief efforts. As of January 1, 25 percent of the respondents chose to donate $75 of their entry fee to aid Camp Fire victims. Additionally, in continued support, Big Sur Marathon Foundation is offering a limited edition “Run for Fire Relief” shirt for purchase when registering for this year’s November 14th event, with a significant portion of every shirt sold being donated to the North Valley Community Foundation. Learn more at adventuresportsjournal. com/bsmf-campfire.com. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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Western Mountaineering Producing quality gear since 1970, right here in California By Leonie Sherman
Camping in February means eleven hours in a sleeping bag every night. Who makes that sleeping bag can make the difference between embracing adventure during the coldest, darkest, quietest months or shunning it. High-quality gear allows you to push further and love being outside in any season under any conditions. That’s why it’s good news that some of the warmest and lightest sleeping bags in the world are manufactured in the South Bay Area. If you want to explore new horizons and accept new challenges in the outdoors this winter, Western Mountaineering gear can make it a more pleasant experience.
S
ince 1970, Western Mountaineering has set the industry standard for warm, light, reliable sleeping bags and down garments. They manufacture three dozen different bags, from the summer Everlite, which weighs less than a pound to the Bison Expedition bag, which features a Gore Windstopper fabric and will keep you toasty when the temperature dips to 40 below. Their down jackets, vests, pants, and booties are designed for any activity from kicking around a chilly cabin to scaling Denali. Half their sales are domestic and half their sales go to outdoor enthusiasts from Norway to South Korea. Germany accounts for 17% of their total business; if Germans think it’s well engineered and constructed, it probably is. “Down is still the warmest, lightest, most compressible material on earth,” says Western Mountaineering co-founder Gary Schaezlein. “It still stands up to any synthetics.” Western Mountaineering does not rebrand their gear every year. Instead they quietly innovate, and continue to make the high-quality gear their faithful customers have come to rely on. Schaezlein and his co-founder Jeff Jones started the company to make expedition gear they couldn’t find elsewhere. Their first factory was in a 2-story building
“I’m really proud of what we make. So many things these days are designed to fail as soon as the warranty expires,” he says with a sigh. “Making a high quality product is the best thing you can do for sustainability, because you don’t need to replace it.” — Gary Peterson 10 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
on 1st Street in San Jose. Manufacturing took place downstairs, with retail upstairs; customers walked past humming sewing machines to browse sleeping bags, clothing, backpacks and even dogpacks. Jones and Schaezlein parted ways in the mid-80s. Jones took over the retail end and Schaezlein took on manufacturing. Jones eventually sold his business, but Schaezlein continues to make gear. The company has grown to about 50 employees and after an initial spurt continues to grow at about 5% a year. Full disclosure: I’m on my second Antelope Western Mountaineering bag. It’s kept me warm at five below (I used a vapor barrier liner), has a weather resistant breathable shell and weighs less than two and a half pounds. My first one gave up the ghost after about 700 days of abuse. Gary Peterson, Western Mountaineering’s Managing Director, insists it should have lasted longer. “With a little TLC, our bags should last 1,000-1,500 nights.” I’m embarrassed to admit what I put my bag through, but I accept full responsibility for its untimely demise. I’ve dallied with cheaper, inferior brands but ultimately I returned to Western Mountaineering. The Antelope is the best sleeping bag I’ve ever owned, and right now I have a quiver of half a dozen. So I was already a fan before I journeyed to San Jose to see their factory first hand. Peterson picked me up at the bus station wearing a vintage down jacket and brought me to the 12,000 square-foot renovated Coke bottle factory just south of the freeway where Western Mountaineering has been making their magic happen since 1993. He started working for Western Mountaineering as a student to fund his climbing habit. After 27 years, he’s a leading expert in his field. Though he’s been recruited by other companies, he’s never been tempted to leave. “I might be able to make more money somewhere else, but I like being involved in a product from start to finish,” he explains. “At a larger
company I would be doing just one aspect of the process but here at Western Mountaineering I can be involved in the design, the fabric, down selection, material sourcing, the sewing, all the way to a finished product.” Western Mountaineering’s commitment to quality keeps him engaged. “I’m really proud of what we make. So many things these days are designed to fail as soon as the warranty expires,” he says with a sigh. “Making a high quality product is the best thing you can do for sustainability, because you don’t need to replace it.” That high quality product starts with the people who make it. “The sewing skills in San Jose aren’t any better than anywhere else, but we pay by the hour, as opposed to by piece rate, so seamstresses aren’t incentivized to push through as much as possible,” explains Peterson. “We train our folks to make every sleeping bag perfect. We don’t do seconds, so all our product is show-quality. Every bag we make is the best bag we can make.” Sewing Supervisor Juana Barrajas started working for Western Mountaineering at the same time as Peterson. When her kids were young, Schaezlein would let her leave the floor to take them to school or pick them up. “I’m so grateful they let me take care of my kids while I was working here and raise my family and still hold down a job,” she explains. “It’s not a lot of money, but it’s the way they treat workers that keeps me here.” Half a dozen people have stayed with the company for over two decades, including her sister-in-law. There’s not a lot of turn-over. “Once we train somebody, we like to keep them,” explains Peterson. Meticulous attention to detail insures consistent high quality. Western Mountaineering uses 400 thread count, while many other companies settle for 250. They make sure the fabric is balanced, meaning it has the same number of threads on the warp and the weft. Most stock fabrics are unbalanced; it’s cheaper to produce fabric that has more threads on the warp so you can run the weft
Opposite page, top to bottom: A recent bag on the right and one of the very first bags Western Mountaineering produced on the left – made in 1970 or 1971; Founders Gary Schaezlein and Jeff Jones in front of their retail storefront in the early 70s. This page, top from left to right: Group photo of the WM team in recent years in front of the current factory; A Versalite bag being filled at the Western Mountaineering factory. This page, bottom from left to right: A sleeping bag being baffled; a handful of the high quality goose down that makes Western Mountaineering products so light and warm.
(Photos courtesy of Western Mountaineering.) through quicker. Western Mountaineering also carefully monitors calendaring—the speed, heat and pressure of two enormous metal rollers that all fabric is run through after weaving. Calendaring and balanced thread count impact how downproof fabric is. Down can also leak through stitches, so Western Mountaineering double stitches nearly everything, and offsets the seams to reduce leakage. They hot cut the fabric, which cauterizes the edges to ensure they won’t fray. They buy all their down rated at 900 fill power, but sell it at 850. “They’ve changed the standards for measuring
down so much, we want to make sure our customers are happy with our product,” explains Schaezlein. They source their down from a factory in Poland where the geese can roam the property’s meadows and ponds freely. The geese are raised for breeding, not meat, so they have a life expectancy of 4-6 years, as opposed to 30-40 weeks. Older ducks and geese naturally lose their down when they molt, and that fluff can be vacuumed up from nesting sites (they clean it, of course!) instead of being live plucked. All that attention to detail takes time; Western
Mountaineering’s simplest bag takes about two hours to make and the most complex bag takes about eight. “We could make a sleeping bag in half the time, but it wouldn’t be as good of a sleeping bag,” explains Peterson. Their closest competitor is Feathered Friends, a down manufacturing and retail company out of Seattle. Even their employees rave about Western Mountaineering’s quality. A long-time Feathered Friends employee says, “Western Mountaineering kept us on our toes, because we always knew their business model was to make the best gear possible.”
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11
Climbing in Since the release of the documentary Free Solo, almost everyone has of Alex Honnold. But there’s another, lesser-known free soloist Yosemite heard who is tearing up the scene: 30-year-old Brad Gobright. Valley I with Free Soloist Brad Gobright Pushing, maybe, a little too much By Chris Van Leuven
This page, main image: Brad Gobright high on El Capitan (Samuel Crossley). Opposite page, top to bottom: Brad looking back on Freeblast during his training day for the one day ascent of El Corazon (Chris Van Leuven); How Brad poses for photos. He did this pose everytime (Chris Van Leuven).
12 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
t’s 1am in El Cap meadow. I’m pacing around in my harness and wearing a small backpack, waiting for Brad Gobright to arrive. In a few minutes we’re heading up the Big Stone for his hardest day of climbing to date: the 31 pitch (3,000') 5.13 El Corazon. He’s planning a one-day-ascent, with hopes to be back to the Valley floor by 6pm. The route is so continuously difficult, with eight pitches of 5.12 and six of 5.13, that only Tommy Caldwell and Alex Honnold—arguably the most famous American climbers today—have freed it in a day. I’ve signed up to belay, carry supplies and clean pitches while ascending the rope behind Brad (which is hard in itself), but what he’s attempting is world class. I only know Gobright from film, including Safety Third, which shows him ropeless on many long, hard routes (à la Honnold) as he builds up to and nearly peels off a 5.12 free solo to his death. Early in the movie he falls attempting a 5.14 bolted crack on gear. He pulls the only cam keeping him off the deck, hits the ground from 20 feet up, and breaks his back. The movie follows the always-psyched Gobright as he ticks a huge list of hard routes both with and without a rope. The time-lapse film Two Nineteen Forty Four, shows him and partner Jim Reynolds setting the previous Nose record on El Cap. The two move in unison, sprinting up the route in perfection. Back in El Cap meadow, right on time at twenty past one, Gobright pulls up in his car and proceeds to munch down a container full of blueberries and a bag of granola. Then we begin the 10-minute hike in. Gobright still lives the dirtbag life: his home remains his 2005 Honda Civic. He knows where and how to get the best deals on local grub. Other than having a steady check from his sponsor Gramicci and his secondary sponsor Evolv, he still lives like a homeless climber. His mom still pays his cell phone bill.
We reach the start of the route under 80-degree heat at 1:45am, which is a problem. He needs it to be cold, so his shoes stick to the slick granite and his fingers stay put on the razor-thin holds. With his harness gear loops equipped with ten pieces of gear, less than is required for almost any route in the Valley, he sets off. My job is to carry water, clean his gear while on Jumars (handled ascenders that grip the rope) and keep up. The route is a complicated affair, with sections of loose rock, flaring chimneys, and fiercely hard moves up the huge wall. He blasts up the first 50 feet placing nothing, then wiggles in a small cam and fires another 150 feet stopping twice more to place protection. This hybrid free solo technique allows him to travel fast and save energy. I follow. It goes on like that for two hours and 45 minutes, where we make it 1,000 feet up El Cap. Conditions were slick. It was hot and humid, forcing him to fight to hold onto the rock. He said there were spots, within 15 feet of his last point of protection, where he thought he could slip (which would equate to a 30-foot fall). In this controlled, or mostly controlled game, an unexpected slip could be deadly. At the top of our first objective, a section called Free Blast, he turned his headlamp to me and announced: “we’re bailing.” “You’re too slow, and it’s too hot … you’re faster than 98 percent of other climbers out there, but this is the hardest climb I’ve ever tried and I need everything to be perfect.” We retreat and catch a few hours of sleep. A few hours after sunrise, I meet him at his hang board workout behind the climber’s campground Camp 4. Here we plan our next objective for the day: the 700-foot 5.11 North Face of the Rostrum. Thrashing and down climbing from the car down to the route, he suggests we do the 5.12 finish to the North Face
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I’ve noted that as focused as Gobright was while climbing, he was equally un-focused on the ground; he’s often scrambled, forgetful and misplacing gear. And where his climbs are methodical, his home, or rather his basecamp, is a different story.
called the Alien, one of the most exposed routes in the Valley. I decline, saying I’m not up for this one today, as I hadn’t climbed much in months. I also talk him into doing just the top half of the route—to go down all the way to the start would have us rappelling past a hornet’s nest where someone I know had been recently stung. It was a risk he was willing to take, but not me. From the midway ledge he takes off, nearly running. “I’ve never climbed with anyone like you before,” I said to him while dry heaving at an anchor. He moved fearlessly, without pause. I was along for the ride—at top speed as to not slow him down. An hour after starting up, we’re on top of the route, making it in only a fraction it takes most parties. I’m out of breath and dripping with sweat. As we hike up to the car he sums up the day, “It was cool climbing in the moonlight [on Freeblast]. But it was so hot on the Rostrum. It was the hardest it’s ever been for me.” I’ve noted that as focused as Gobright was while climbing, he was equally un-focused on the ground; he’s often scrambled, forgetful and misplacing gear. And where his climbs are methodical, his home, or rather his basecamp, is a different story; his belongings are scattered about his car. I wondered if this ability to hyper-focus, is what drew him to climb such risky, highlevel routes, again and again. Growing up in the city of Orange in Orange County, California, “I was always into climbing trees and other stuff. I was into scrambling around,” Gobright says. “When I was eight, as a little gift, my parents took me to the climbing gym Rockreaction in Costa Mesa. They didn’t climb but they learned how to belay and they got harnesses and stuff and once a week they belayed me. I don’t think when
they took me to the gym they knew that it would be my passion.” After finishing high school and dropping out of college after one year, in 2008 he moved to Yosemite and got a job cleaning rooms at the Majestic Hotel so he could live and climb in the park. For six months a year for two years, dressed in his uniform of black pants and a black shirt, he pushed a cart from room to room, making beds, vacuuming, cleaning bathrooms, and wiping mirrors. When he wasn’t working, he pushed himself harder and harder on the rock. From 2013 to 2016, when he was living seasonally in Boulder, Colorado, he would regularly free solo the 700-foot Naked Edge (5.11c), Colorado’s most famous rock climb, a feat he’s done (ropeless) between 25 and 30 times. (That’s a staggeringly high number of times to do a single route). He says doing it gives him the same satisfaction on a cardio level as doing a light jog. A jog where every step has to be executed with perfection or you fall to your death. He lived in Boulder during the filming of Safety Third, where his free solo of Hairstyles and Attitudes at 5.12c remains the most difficult ropeless climb done in Eldorado Canyon. It’s a climb where he says he pushed too far to the edge. “Hairstyles, I was like, eh, maybe I shouldn’t have done that. Maybe on that one I pushed too much,” he tells me over coffee. On the same day after we do Freeblast and the Rostrum, Gobright and I meet up with Honnold at the premiere of the film Free Solo showing at the center of Yosemite Valley. We made our way through the crowd of hundreds to meet Honnold and soon the two soloists were talking like old friends, members of the close-knit climbing community who share www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
13
To keep his fingers strong, Brad supplements his Valley climbing with weighted fingerboard hangs (Chris Van Leuven).
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a healthy competition with one another. The way the media has shown it—which is true—once Gobright breaks a solo climbing record, Honnold goes to reclaim it. Soon after Gobright and Reynolds broke the Nose speed record in October 2017, the most famous route in the world, Honnold and Caldwell broke it, taking the time down and making news around the world when they made it sub-two hours. The soloists and speed climbers show equal admiration for one another. Brad’s success on the rock both with and without a rope puts him in an elite class, and it has caught the attention of thousands of climbers. His achievements include a rare one-day free ascent of El Cap’s Salathé Wall (5.13), considered by many to be the greatest big wall in the world. He’s also ticked nails-hard routes in Red Rock Canyon, Nevada, including the 10-pitch 5.13d DeeFree. The next morning I meet Gobright at Camp 4 during his daily hang-boarding regimen. “I have ADD,” he professes during a rest. He’s in a surrounding of canvas tents and broad, colorful tarps strung between trees. Before I have a chance to respond, his stopwatch goes off and he jumps back on the wooden training board and hangs by his fingertips with a 25-pound weight clipped to his climbing harness. He says climbing alone isn’t enough to keep his strength and that hang board training builds necessary power. Gobright admits his ADD has, at times, been embarrassing. He tells me about the time he gave a presentation at a climbing gym in California, and couldn’t remember the names of people he had known for years at the crags and gyms. After his show, the audience lined up for poster signings and he froze. He had to come up with excuses on the fly. “I was mortified,” he says. “That was one of the worst days of my life.” But when it comes to climbing, Gobright never forgets a hold. He has, however, had his share of accidents. He once broke his toes when he fell off the top of Yosemite’s most famous boulder problem, Midnight Lightning, after deciding he didn’t need a crash pad because he’d done it so many times already. Once, he slid some 60
feet down a slab “approach” in Red Rock Canyon, Nevada, breaking his ankle. I ask him what’s he’s looking for, aside from climbing. “It’s just been a part of my life forever, all my best friends have come through climbing. It’s what I live for.” His past injuries have forced him to take breaks, making him even more driven. He tells me that after Valley season he’ll train at the gym to build crimp strength and power, something he loses when climbing outside full-time. He says training on plastic for a stint also helps prevent burn out. “[Climbing] gives me a sense of purpose. It’s something I can continue to improve. I can’t picture myself as [anything but] a climber.” A few days later he tried El Corazon again, this time with Camden Clements but, though they reached the top, he failed to free the route. Heat mixed with his exhaustion left Gobright greasing out a 60-foot-long roof traverse, the crux of the route. “It’s brutally difficult,” Brad said. A week later, during a speed ascent of El Cap’s Realm of the Flying Monkeys, Clements fell 50 feet, broke a leg, and required a rescue. The next time Gobright and I meet up, it’s for a sunset bouldering session on the blocs under Sentinel Rock. A crew of local paragliding instructors and BASE jumpers join in. By the time we get there, Brad has already run eight laps on a boulder problem traverse, all sans crash pads. The group and I wander over to a nearby boulder to warm up. I offer Brad a pad as he makes his way over to the line we just did. He declines my offer for a pad. We look away for a moment and when we look back he’s on the ground in writhing pain. He says he heard a pop in his ankle after he jumped for the final hold and came down hard on a rock at the base. “The season’s over,” he says while wolfing down a handful of ibuprofen I hand him. “I can’t imagine jamming my left foot in a crack for 3,000 feet by next week. By the time I heal, November, it will be too cold.” On October 25 Gobright, with support by Henry Feder, freed El Corazon in 19 hours.
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Gear We Love >>
While some people think the Bolle Shifter is just too radical looking for everyday use, we like ours way too much to limit their use to just cycling. The latest addition to Bolle’s performance eyewear range, the SHIFTER is a tribute to cycling history in a retrofuturistic design that looks good even if you don’t wear a mullet. Seriously though, while the retro look and feel of the Shifter is very cool, these are more than just a fashion accessory. The Phantom lens features a molecular photochromic filter adapting to any light condition and a high contrast filter to enhance colors and boost your vision. Even though these sunglasses feel featherlight on your face and don’t squeeze your head, they are surprisingly hard to dislodge and stay put even during bumpy mountain bike descents. Air vents reduce fogging and hydrophobic treatment repels water making the Shifter our favorite sunglasses and pretty much the best we’ve ever worn. MSRP: $89-$139 • bolle.com
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Romp’s website claims you will “experience euphoria” on their hand crafted skis ... and yes, we did. The Pin Tail backcountry ski boasts a versatile design that allows for sublime powder shredding and yet can also carve on hard pack. A more narrow tail and early taper make it nimble through the tight trees. A trip that always floats makes this ski your best friend in both pow and crud. Romp utilizes the latest and best technologies and materials in the manufacturing of their custom and stock skis. They also offer a damage replacement policy within a year of purchase. In addition to the backcountry shape featured here, Romp also offers shapes suitable for all mountain, all mountain/ powder, powder, and hard snow. MSRP: $750+ • rompskis.com
ZODIAC LIGHTS GEMINI 2300
We’re super impressed by the perfomance and quality of this night riding system for mountain bikers and road cyclists. The Gemini 2300 features a GoPro compatible base and bar mount, and an integrated long-lasting, rechargeable battery. Its 2300 lumens shed some solid light, and you can dial in the brightness with five settings to choose from. Extremely durable yet light, this system is shock resistant, antifog, and IP64 waterproof rated. Also impressive is Zodiac Lights’ commitment to communty. The company sponsors a number of racers as well as the California Enduro Series. MSRP: $145 • zodiac-lights.com
Following its purchase by Adidas in 2011, Five Ten has put more emphasis on research and development. For their February release of the new bouldering specific Aleon shoe, Swiss bouldering legend Fred Nicole made a custom last and created a completely new high performance shoe from scratch. An aggressive shape and a midsole that maintains a slight downturn aim to enhance precision and power when toeing small holds on boulders is what distinguishes the Aleon. Stealth C4 rubber is the gold standard of sticky rubber and the Aleon has plenty in the heel section for superior heel hooking. Five Ten and Nicole designed the microfiber upper to resist stretching. Primeknit makes up the closure and keeps the ankle comfortable, all while helping keep the shoe lightweight. If you like steep bouldering these are the shoes for you. MSRP: $190 • adidasoutdoor.com
MORSEL
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You know how your hand always gets food on it when you’re digging around at the bottom of your freeze-dry meal bag? Yeah, drives us nuts, too. So, on behalf of backpackers, backcountry skiiers/riders, bikepackers, paddlers, rock climbers and mountaineers everywhere ... THANK YOU Morsel for producing a lightweight, packable eating utensil that allows us to keep our hands dry and comfortable while chowing down in the wild. Plus, its innovative design allows you to use it as a spoon, fork or even a spatula to scrape every last bit of food in all the nooks and crannies! MSRP: $12.95 • morselspork.com
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KAHTOOLA MICROSPIKES
Kahtoola MICROspikes are an essential component of any trekking adventure involving snow and/or ice. Just pull them over your running shoes or hiking boots and off you go ... hiking, running, and trekking safely on slippery terrain. Your explorations and training sessions will be all that more rewarding with this confidence-inspiring set of comfortable, durable, and lightweight traction gear. MICROspikes come with a handy tote sack so you can easily pack them until you need ‘em. MSRP: $69.95 • kahtoola.com
Even though Patagonia doesn’t use the term “fanny pack” to describe the Black Hole, that’s exactly what you think of when you see it — those classic men’s fashion accessories that were ubiquitous in the 1980s. As it turns out, this updated and tougher version of a fanny pack also makes a great way to hold your phone, keys, and a few essentials during mountain bike rides, fishing trips, and low maintenance hikes when you don’t want to carry a pack. The classic design has one large main compartment that opens and closes with a zip-flap and stretch water-bottle pockets to hold beverages or a hat and gloves. A small front stash pocket holds your phone and spare camera batteries. Two compression straps keep the load close to body and cinch down to hold additional gear. The highly breathable mesh lumbar panel provides all-day carrying comfort. Made from 13-oz 450-denier polyester ripstop (50% solution-dyed) with a TPUfilm laminate and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. MSRP: $59 • patagonia.com
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RIDE CONCEPTS HELLION MOUNTAIN BIKING SHOE
Ride Concepts has blown us away with their mountain bike footwear. The Hellion — pace-setter of the their Session Series — specifically impressed us with its increased protection, durabilty, comfort, and all around good looks. Hard-charging riders who seek out the gnarliest conditions will appreciate this shoe’s comfort and flat pedal control. It comes in styles for both men and women (there is no Hellion for groms although there are plenty of other options in the RC line) ... each tested and heartily approved by our staff. Ride Concepts recognizes that men, women and youth all deserve equal quality and performance in their shoes, and their designs reflect the specific needs of each. Ride Concepts’ goal is “to design and make the most comfortable, most durable, and most reliable mountain biking footwear on the planet.” And thanks to their solid commitment to progressive style, cutting-edge features and singular construction, we say they certainly slayed that goal! MSRP: $130 • rideconcepts.com www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
15
Classic Backcountry Tours Three Sierra tours from green circle to black diamond
Words and photos by Brennan Lagasse
T
he snow has been flying all over the Sierra Nevada this winter with mid-January storms blanketing the Range of Light in a bright shade of white from north to south. The backcountry in the greater Lake Tahoe area has been filling in as a result, and February looks to be a great month to get out for a tour. Here are three classic spots with varying levels of terrain for those looking to get out and enjoy the best of what Tahoe has to offer this season. Don’t forget to have a good partner as well as the tools and knowledge necessary to safely access avalanche terrain before you head out for a tour.
TOUR 1 // MT. ROSE
The Mt. Rose area is home to some of the best easy-access, high elevation powder and corn skiing in the area. It’s actually just east of the Sierra Crest nestled at the northern end of the Carson Range, but don’t let that fool you into thinking the skiing isn’t as good as its neighboring Sierra peaks. Many backcountry tours in the region boast phenomenal views of the lake, and whether it’s your first time skinning around the decomposed granite of Tahoe Meadows, or you’re venturing out to the more solar slopes of Rose Knob, this area holds multiple tours, aspects, and lines to keep backcountry enthusiasts busy from early until late in the season.
YOUR DOG IS INJURED. YO U ʼ R E A LON E , M I L E S F ROM T H E T R A I L H E A D , A N D W E AT H E R I S M OV I N G I N - P RO B L E M S O LV E D .
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RESPONSIBILITY • SELF-RELIANCE • PEACE OF MIND W W W. F I D O P R O T E C T I O N . C O M 16 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
Opposite page, top to bottom: Keith Davis catching the sunrise form the Mt. Rose area skintrack; Sarah Halas enjoys the tree skiing in the Mt. Rose backcountry. This page, top: Happy people filling a powdery skintrack near Tamarak Peak, NV; This page, middle, left to right: A nice view of the NW tree pitch on Castle Peak from neighboring Basin Peak; Elephant’s Back, Carson Pass. This page, bottom: Toby Schwindt gets walled in the classic Crescent Couloir.
Green Circle Tour:
Tahoe Meadows is a very low angle, short approach skin that offers a few turns in a low key setting. By some standards it might be too mellow, but if you’re simply looking to get a feel for skinning, and make turns in a beautiful place it’s worth some time. If you’re ready for a bit more of a green circle/blue square experience, but are still wary to get “out there,” head over the pass toward Reno and use the big pullout on the right to access the Tamarack Peak zone. There are several bowls and short skiable pitches on the way to explore before getting out to Tamarack. If you make it out there expect 1,200 feet of elevation gain whether you choose the east or north sides of the peak for your descent.
Black Diamond Tour: While
some easy-to-moderate tours certainly exist in the region, Round Top is the 10k foot peak in the area that draws the most attention. There are several bowls and ramps to check out with east and north aspects, but the Crescent Couloir grabs the most attention. It’s the definition of a perfect couloir, arcing a crescent right through the middle of Round Top-hence the name. There are actually two other couloirs right next door to the main Crescent, but this one is “the one.” Many a solid backcountry skier has been turned back due to difficult-to-unsafe conditions in this line, so keep in mind it is definitely only for the very skilled backcountry rider and will likely require hard points (crampons, ice axe, whippet) to ascend safely. Count on a 1,500 foot approach for this prize expert line that’s impossible to miss when you’re driving over Carson Pass in either direction. If you feel up to the challenge at first, but don’t like what you see when you get out there, there’s still plenty of skiing to be done in the area, and there’s always another day to come back and get walled in the couloir.
TOUR 2 // CASTLE PEAK
Castle Peak is one of the most classic backcountry locales in all of the Northern Sierra. You can’t miss its south couloir, splitting the rocky “castle” while driving up I-80 headed east, or its beautiful south slopes while driving from the west. The crown of the Donner Summit area, Castle Peak offers a backcountry hut experience (reservation required) with the Peter Grubb Hut and shares its terrain with a host of users from the daily backcountry skier, to snowshoers, and in some areas snowmobiles. Andesite Peak is popular as a beginner ski tour, as are the south slopes of Castle Peak when conditions permit. The northwest trees accessed from Castle Pass are a prime spot to find sheltered powder, and there is great skiing on the east and northern sides of the peak as well.
Blue Square Tour:
It’s hard to beat the northwest trees of Castle Peak. Use the snowpark off the I-80 Boreal exit (pass required), walk a few hundred feet to the trailhead, and get comfortable for the relatively flat approach until you head up Castle Pass. From here a short descent will bring you to the Peter Grub Hut, or continue along the ridge checking conditions for your descent into the trees along the way. If you’re looking to ramp up this tour, and have the stamina and savvy for multiple laps, dropping off the backside of the northwest trees will bring you to some east and north facing terrain that advanced to expert skiers look forward to experiencing every season. If you stick to the trees expect 1,000-1,200+ feet of elevation gain before you’ll be skiing.
TOUR 3 // CARSON PASS
While Castle Peak and Mt. Rose anchor the northern portions of the Lake Tahoe backcountry ski terrain, Carson Pass is the center of the south. Heading up and over Luther Pass from South Lake Tahoepassing some exceptional tree skiing off Waterhouse Peak, you’ll eventually be on your way to Kirkwood and find yourself in a true alpine setting. Carson Pass proper has a snowpack (pass required) that allows access to the well traveled Elephant’s Back, Round Top, and Sisters ski tours that are all some of the best in the area. Elephant’s Back sees the most traffic, and the Sisters the least, but you’ll likely run into other winter enthusiasts who are snow camping, or even ice skating depending on the snow conditions.
See Alpenglow Sports Mountain Festival info on page 22 for this year’s backcountry lineup.
Brennan Lagasse is an educator, writer, and ski guide living on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. He guides backcountry trips around the globe, and says that Lake Tahoe and the Eastern Sierra is home to some of the best backcountry skiing on the planet.
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17
Doug Read
A Tahoe City Nordic ski legend faces his toughest rescue yet: himself By Tim Hauserman
Long time Tahoe local Doug Read was one of the original founders of the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team back in 1976 and served as its President for eight years. As a member of TNSAR’s A-Team, he has gone on over 150 searches: many in the middle of a blizzard in the middle of the night. He also has been the Great Ski Race Director for 42 years. While the last few years of mild winters have been tough on the race, in the past it has been the largest cross country ski race in the western United States.
W
hen Read purchased a second home in rural Sierraville with his wife Laura, he founded the Tour De Manure Metric Century bicycle ride, which is the primary fundraiser for the Sierraville Fire and Rescue Department. Read has always been in the thick of the work for this quirky event — now in its 11th year — complete with installing fun “Burma Shave-style jingle” signs like “Bull Shipper” all along the course. Read has also been a board member and volunteer extraordinaire for the Tahoe Cross Country Ski Education Association, which runs Tahoe Cross Country (Tahoe XC)
18 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
in Tahoe City. He is affectionately known for serving up waffles on busy weekends from the Tahoe XC portable grill as a fundraiser for the center. You can also see his handiwork in the trademark wooden arrow, a kind of art bomb he makes that he’s mounted in conspicuous spots around Tahoe City, and has also installed right in front of the Tahoe XC web cam. The North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce named Read Volunteer of the Year in 2018. Also last year, he received an award from Placer County for work with the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team, a group of 100
skiers and snowmobile riders who rescue people lost in the backcountry and educate people about how to survive in the mountains. This January, the California Office of Emergency Services gave him a special commendation, stating, “Doug’s physical strength, endurance, great sense of humor, knowledge of the local terrain, skiing ability, and mental fortitude make him the most valuable member of the team. There is no one we would rather have watching our backs or leading the way when the going gets tough.” Sounds like 2018 was another great year of fun adventures and accomplishment for Read, right? Not exactly. In December of 2017 he started the biggest challenge of his life: conquering myelofibrosis, a blood disease in which bone marrow is not producing enough red blood cells. This condition leads to severe anemia, fatigue, and an enlarged spleen. Read has been anemic over the last 20 years. He regularly had his blood tested and while the red blood
TAHOE’S
Opposite page: Lake Tahoe’s peaks are a constant playground for Doug Read and his dog, Wheeler. This page, clockwise from upper left: The Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team trainings explore every aspect of mountain rescue. Springtime takes Doug into the Eastern Sierra slopes. Doug founded the annual Tour de Manure Metric Century in Sierra Valley.
When you spend hundreds of hours in the wilderness on searches, you create a deep lifetime bond and unique camaraderie. cell numbers were low, he was still able to lead his extraordinary life, which included endeavors such as skiing across Finland and through remote parts of Nevada. “Then the numbers took a real nose dive,” said Read when I interviewed him on January 19 at his home. “The next step is leukemia. We asked a lot of doctors. They gave a grim forecast, or said you could try a stem cell transplant and be cured.” For 70-year-old Read, the first challenge was getting approval for a stem cell transplant at his age. But Read is no ordinary 70 year old. Even with anemia he could out ski, out bike, out persevere most people much younger than he, so the doctors gave the go ahead. In June of 2018 Read underwent radiation in an effort to shrink the size of his enlarged spleen, then chemo for several days before receiving the transplant, which was rushed from a 38-year-old donor in Europe. Just a few days after the transplant, dozens of people rode their bikes carrying pictures of Read in the Tour De Manure, and a life size portrait of him wearing a Superman cape waited at the finish line. The chemo that accompanied Read’s transplant caused painful mouth sores and a total lack of energy. His diet was limited, he had to avoid germs, and he received frequent transfusions of platelets and blood cells. The Great Ski Race // March 3, 2019 January storms have left a nice snow base in the Sierra and the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team is busy planning this year’s race. It’s a race that attracts folks with a wide range of skiing abilities from those who finish in just over an hour, to those who conquer the course in up to six hours. But everyone can join the big party at the end. It’s a fundraiser for TNSAR, where guys and gals like Doug Read leave their homes in snow storms to save the lives of those who get lost or injured. The Great Ski Race is a testament to Doug’s spirit and perseverance. See Event Profile on page 22.
Read was on the road to a slow recovery when his weakened immune system couldn’t fight off a fungus infection in his leg. “That really complicated the situation,” Read understated. He underwent three surgeries and was delayed from getting out of the hospital for ten weeks. Before the third surgery, Read remembers a meeting with 11 doctors who told him, “if the fungus is in the bone, your leg is coming off.” While the surgery was successful, he was in a wheelchair with strict demands to keep his leg elevated for two months. When you spend hundreds of hours in the wilderness on searches, you create a deep lifetime bond and unique camaraderie. When Read started facing the battle of his life, his search buddies and close skiing friends stepped up to the plate. “Some days when I was really down, they picked me up. People came all the way from Tahoe to Stanford to see me,” said Read. Fellow Search Team member Dirk Schoonmaker came down to help Read several times. “One time Laura came down with a cold. She wasn’t allowed to be around me because I could get sick from her germs, so she had to go home to Tahoe. Dirk jumped in his car right away to come down and take over for Laura as caregiver. If Dirk is in your camp, you are covered.” The process went way too slowly for the anxious Read, who was ready to live as Mary Oliver would say, his “wild and precious life” to the fullest. Eventually, however, he improved enough to come back to Tahoe in December. His blood is tested twice a week. He still gets transfusions and must be extra careful not to fall. But he has taken a few short skis back at the place he loves, Tahoe XC. Skiing builds his strength, but more importantly improves his mental attitude. He revels in the beauty of being on snow in the Tahoe Sierra. “It is so great to be back home and among my friends,” said Read. “Today, I felt the strongest I felt skiing yet. I’m going to try to join the 5K race tomorrow.” Tim Hauserman wrote the official guidebook to the Tahoe Rim Trail as well as Cross Country Skiing in the Sierra Nevada. He teaches and runs the Strider Glider after school program at Tahoe XC in Tahoe City, CA. Read’s story has reminded him how important it is to donate blood and he is committed to making it to more blood drives.
BEST XC
TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER VOTED #2
BEST XC SKI AREA
IN NORTH AMERICA BY USA TODAY
Lake Tahoe’s premier XC ski area Over 100km of groomed trails across 2,800 acres of diverse terrain
300+ days of annual sunshine Pristine grooming for skating and classic skiing State-of-the-art lodge including organic cafe + bar
VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM/XC FOR MORE INFO
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19
Heavenly’s Gunbarrel 25 How I got dropped by an eight-year-old during this old school ski race By Kurt Gensheimer
I never realized how bad of a bump skier I was until I attempted the Gunbarrel 25 at Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe on March 31, 2018. The event, founded in 2004 by ski legend Glen Plake, and now run by his dad Jim, is a phenomenon. For participants, the event is a complete whirlwind. The goal is to ski 25 laps of the 1,600 vertical foot Gunbarrel run within six hours time, laden with some of the biggest and meanest moguls in the West. Several folks crazy enough to sign up for the Gunbarrel will not only achieve 25 laps, but will keep going until the clock stops.
P
lake wanted to model the Gunbarrel as a gravityfed, snow version of a motorcycle enduro; a difficult event that has all participants running for hours in a circle, and nobody knows who’s in the lead. The Gunbarrel rewards perseverance and mental toughness. Skiing bumps as big and unforgiving as Gunbarrel even one time is a feat, but 25 or more? It takes some serious huevos and commitment. And maybe a little brain damage. To be honest, I didn’t have much interest in skiing Gunbarrel at least 25 times. I was more interested in skiing with Max Fish and his parents Ben and Amy who run the Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association (TAMBA) and are fixtures in the South Lake Tahoe community. Max is eight years old and watching him rip is like watching a small adult who’s been skiing for 30 years. The videos Amy takes of Max dropping little cliffs three times his size is one of my favorite things on social media. His skill and technique goes way beyond any other eight-year-old I’ve ever seen, and I wanted to experience this curious event following Max, especially considering how important this event is to him. “The Gunbarrel is Max’s identity,” said Ben. “He stares out his school’s window all day, gazing at Gunbarrel, looking forward to this event every year.” But that plan of skiing with Max vanished almost as soon as it began. Riding up the chairlift, through the sea of mega sugar mounds peppered with manzanita, rocks, an exposed steel irrigation pipe and some dirt and grass for good measure, I watched the first few dozen contestants drop in with a collective thrash of metal edges sliding on a firm crust. Numerous yard sales went down in the
first hundred meters, unleashed skis careening free while bodies slid face forward down the mountain. My judgement was immediately put into question. What had I just signed up for? This was going to be 40,000 vertical feet of survival skiing. We unloaded the lift and Max took off. He dropped in and wasted no time dicing the bumps, some as tall as him, while I was busy being a complete flailure – where flailing meets failure. The 1,600 vertical foot drop on Gunbarrel is known for its man-eating bumps. After hitting the deck twice on the first lap, by the time I reached the lift for my second run, my legs were screaming with lactic acid and my shoulder was a little tweaked from slugging a bump. I sat down on the lift next to Ben and took stock of the situation. “I don’t know what that just was, but it sure wasn’t fun or graceful,” I said. “Not sure if I can take 24 more of those.” “Conditions are great right now,” said Ben with a smile. “Last year the entire run was an ice sheet half the day. Today there’s only ice at the top and it will be gone in an hour.” Perspective is everything, I guess. Thankfully, the second run was noticeably more tolerable than the first, and the third even more tolerable than that. By the fourth run I had scanned the hill enough to get a pretty good line top to bottom, staying in contact with Ben and Amy. The snow started softening up and the screaming in my legs dulled to a mere holler. Things were looking up. When Amy, Ben and I reached the bottom of our sixth lap, Max came zooming up into line right next to us and sat down on the chairlift. In six laps, little Max Fish had lapped us. I was astonished and inspired by the mental toughness and physical perseverance of this little man. We got off the lift and I was committed to keeping up with Max to see how he got down the mountain so fast. I was barely maintaining Max’s pace when I presently found myself on the ground minus a ski. I looked over
“The Gunbarrel is Max’s identity,” said Ben. “He stares out his school’s window all day, gazing at Gunbarrel, looking forward to this event every year.” 20 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
Main image: Max Fish completing one of the 38 Gunbarrel laps he skied, for a total of 60,800 vertical feet of bumps in last year’s Gunbarrel 25. Above: Max ready for another lap. Bottom left: Max with his parents, Ben and Amy. at a black object laying next to my ski; the toe plate binding had completely ripped out of my old rock skis. I gathered up the yard sale and saw the holes in the ski were completely stripped. My Gunbarrel experience was ending at seven laps, a reality that I was actually quite content with. The Universe was trying to tell me, “hey buddy, here’s a convenient excuse to walk away now before things get ugly.” I took the advice the Universe had to offer, but first I had to negotiate more than half the remaining descent on one ski while trying not to get run over by the hundreds of other participants careening down the mountain. I eventually reached the bottom with little more than a bruised ego and retrieved my ski. Ben, Amy and Max continued to burn laps while I bid adieu and raced back home to Verdi to catch a much more relaxing and satisfying endeavor; an evening mountain bike ride. Later that day I got a text from Ben. Max skied 38 laps for a total of 60,800 vertical feet of bumps, while Amy and Ben finished with a respectable 30 laps and 48,000 vertical. And might I add Amy and Ben were on snowboards. After I got Ben’s text I thanked the Universe. I would have been completely incapacitated or possibly even hospitalized had I tried to keep up with the Fish family. So who is the Gunbarrel for? A confounding question for sure. I feel like it’s one of those events you complete just to say you did it. But for those true bump enthusiasts and masochists, it’s an event you just might end up coming back to every year, assuming there’s enough snow. Would I do the Gunbarrel again? Maybe if I was a better skier, or if Mother Nature dumped two feet of freshies the night before.
Go to tahoesouth.com/events and navigate to Gunbarrel 25 for more information and registration details.
EARN YOUR BEER
5-Peak Challenge, San Diego Words and photos by James Murren
T
he sun rose bright over the mountains to the east as I stepped out on the trail to the peak of Cowles Mountain in San Diego’s Mission Trails Regional Park. It was 6:50am and I was getting started on the 5-Peak Challenge: summit all five of the park’s peaks, taking as long as you want (a day or several) and any route you want, but no shortcuts, meaning you have to stay on official park trails. My plan was to do them all in a day, totaling somewhere around 15 miles of hiking, with an elevation gain of about 4,000 feet. The number (30+) of people coming down Cowles as I headed up at sunrise was inspiring. Who were the pre-dawn people with headlamps and flashlights? Women and men of ages ranging from 20s-60s, from what I guessed, already summited and said “Hello” to the day.
Text to my wife, 7:18am: “Cowles Peak.” On past Cowles, the trail continued to Pyles Peak. I hiked at a fast pace, the backside of Cowles being shaded from the warming sun. My legs felt good and there were no hot spots between my feet and socks. When the trail turned up to the summit, it turned rocky. Chunks of stone and loose dirt characterized the earth’s surface. At the summit, I snapped a selfie to document the second peak of the five and ate some food, drinking water along the way. Text to my wife, 7:43am: “Pyles Peak.” Way off in the distance, I could see Point Loma, where the Spanish entered what is today called San Diego, the city skyline visible in the morning light. The vast Pacific Ocean stretched on forever. I scampered-ran-hiked back the way I came, seeing even more people on Cowles, which injected more energy into my being. A road runner darted across the trail. Text, 8:39am: “Down. To next trail head.” At the car, I ate a couple bites of a turkey sandwich and a handful of potato chips. A few baby carrots and hummus rounded out the re-fueling station session. While driving to the next trailhead, I drank a bottle of electrolytes. Text, 8:58am: “On trail. North and South Fortuna Peaks next.” I knew this area really well, it being part of my weekly single speed route. The rolling and wide open grasslands were perfect for my legs, a break from the pounding of coming down the previous two peaks. Hiking up to the Fortuna Saddle in the shade, I was in my element, so to speak; I like steep trails. At the junction, I turned right to summit North Fortuna. Thinking I was there, I false summited and then kept
Main image: The last of the five peaks and soon to call it a day after about 14 miles and 4,000 feet of hiking/climbing. Above: From North Fortuna trail looking towards South Fortuna trail, with Cowles Mountain in the distance. Bottom left: South Fortuna – the lowest of the five main peaks in the park — trail sign. Bottom right: The perfect beer paired with this adventure, the Gatling Gun by
going to the true summit. Another selfie snapped, and back down I went. Text, 9:50 am: “North Summit.” Text from my wife, 9:57am: “Enjoy!” At the saddle, I made a quick left and a quick right to get on over to South Fortuna. More chunky rocks and some stairs in the trail made for a labored hike. Eat and drink more, I told myself. At the peak, I did. Text, 10:19am: “South Summit. Back down to next one.” Going down, though, was starting to put a hurting on my quads. I knew I’d be feeling it for a few days. Once again, I went back the way I came, except I decided to take Oak Canyon Trail to the grasslands. Late autumn brown leaves, with some gold flecks here and there, hung on the trees, pools of water reflecting the blue sky above from deep within the rock-walled mini canyon that has a seasonal stream. I decided to jump right on to the Kwaay Paay Peak trail and not stop to eat the rest of my sandwich. At only 1.2 miles up to the peak, I thought the food could wait.
The trail went straight up. It was like an elevator to the sky, but requiring me to put one foot in front of the other if I was going to get there. At one point, in a tight section with gulched-out trail, I heard: “Professor Murren?” I recognized one of my students, putting a big smile on my face. “This trail is kicking my butt. Hardest of the 5 Peaks, but it’s my last one.” “How long did it take you?” “All morning.” “You’re doing them in one day?” “Yep!” We bade farewell and I went up. At the top, I snapped some photos and the last selfie of the day. Text, 11:40am: “Kwaay Paay Peak. Ran into student on way up. 5/5 peaks done. Down to car.” Text, 12:03pm: “Off trail. Done!” Text from my wife, 12:04pm: “Wow! That’s quick! Congrats!” When I set out, barring any injury, I knew I could do the 5 peaks in a day, but I thought it would be around 2:00pm, at the earliest, when I’d finish. Sitting by the car and finishing my food and rehydration, I felt a true sense of accomplishment. It felt good to know that my body and mind could work together and have such a morning. I felt content in the moment. ***************************** ater on in the evening, after supper, I sat down on the couch with a book and beer. The Captured by Scott Zesch was the read and Gatling Gun by BNS Brewing (Santee, CA) was the drink. The juxtaposition of the book’s content and the name of the beer were not lost on me. A multiple award-winning 9% Imperial Stout, it poured a thick tan head into the glass. Deep dark brown/black color, like mangrove forest water, was its appearance, while words like “roasty nose, some chocolate, more coffee, malty, perhaps some raisins, super smooth, easy drinker for an Imperial Stout” summarized the initial tasting experience. I sipped on it while turning the pages. As time passed and the pint warmed, it seemed that I got more of a hops presence, as it was bitterer on the tongue. By the time I reached the bottom of the glass and the end of a chapter, I was ready to catch some zzzzzzzz’s.
L
Official link to the 5-Peak Challenge: mtrp.org/5-peak-challenge.
ALPENGLOW MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL
Event Profiles Featured upcoming events
Alpenglow Mountain Festival is a nine-day celebration of human-powered mountain sports, events, clinics, equipment demonstrations, critically acclaimed films and more. This year Alpenglow Mountain Festival showcases over 75 individual events from February 16-24, 2019 and is almost entirely free. Geared toward beginner and intermediate winter recreation enthusiasts, the festival showcases some of the best activities Lake Tahoe has to offer – backcountry skiing and splitboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, natural history, yoga, live music, educational workshops, social gatherings and more. Visit their website to see the full schedule of events and sign-up in advance to guarantee your spot. Also check out their lodging partners and use code MTFEST19 for deals and discounts. Learn more at alpenglowsports.com.
BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR SANTA CRUZ February 21-24, Santa Cruz
Ignite your passion for adventure, action, and travel! The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour will exhilarate you with amazing big-screen stories when it comes to the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz with four shows/ two programs. Journey to exotic locations, paddle the wildest waters, and climb the highest peaks. The tour brings films from the 43rd annual Banff Mountain Film Festival to about 400 communities around the world. From an exploration of remote landscapes and mountain cultures to adrenaline-fueled action sports, films in this year’s World Tour are sure to captivate and amaze the explorer within you. The Santa Cruz stop benefits the UCSC Wilderness Orientation Scholarship Fund. This fund provides full and half scholarships to dozens of first-year students, affording them the chance to experience the shared magic of the wilderness before beginning life at UCSC. Learn more at recreation.ucsc.edu.
Photo: Troy Corliss
THE GREAT SKI RACE
SEA OTTER CLASSIC
Race this epic 30-kilometer (18.43-mile) course through the backcountry from Lake Tahoe’s premier Nordic center, Tahoe Cross-Country Ski Area (Tahoe XC) to Cottonwood Restaurant and Bar in Truckee. Showcasing views of Squaw Valley, the Sierra Crest, and Lake Tahoe, the exhilarating course climbs for seven miles over 7,700-foot-elevation Starratt Pass, then zooms down giant S-turns and into soft forest glades along Sawtooth Ridge into historic Truckee. Two soup stations along the way offer drinks and snacks. An after party at Cottonwoods serves Sierra Nevada beer, a sizzling lunch from Men Wielding Fire, and live music from The Blues Monsters. Proceeds benefit Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue (TNSR), a volunteer team that mobilizes to rescue skiers, boarders, snowshoers, snowmobilers, and snow bikers lost in the backcountry. Learn more at thegreatskirace.com.
Sea Otter is cycling’s North American season opener. Professional and amateur athletes alike make the annual pilgrimage to Sea Otter to participate in some of the sport’s most competitive and enduring events. There will be hundreds of bicycles available to demo on the Raceway and in three other demo zones. With special areas for eMTB, MTB skills and kids’ bikes — riders can try before they buy. Whether you’re young or old, new to cycling or experienced, you are sure to find obstacles and fun designed just for you throughout the Expo. Try them all over the four days and take home not only big smiles, but new skills to try out on your local trails and routes. Festival passes get you access to the demo areas, food court, beer garden, stunt shows, kids’ activities, and more. Buy online and save. Kids 12 and under are free. Learn more at seaotterclassic.com.
March 3, Tahoe City to Truckee
GRASSHOPPER ADVENTURE SERIES
April 28, Auburn
The inaugural Great Auburn Epic takes place in Auburn, the Endurance Capital of the World. This mountain bike race features four timed cross country stages on the spectacular trails at Auburn State Recreation Area (Auburn SRA). The race starts with a 4.5 mile transfer along Foresthill Road including a crossing of the Foresthill Bridge – the highest bridge in California at 730 feet. Stage 1 is on smooth single track on the Foresthill Divide Loop from Grizzly Bear House to Drivers Flat. Stage 2 features four more miles on the Foresthill Divide Trail and then 3.5 miles of amazing flowy, twisty turns and switchbacks of the Connector Trail, where racers are treated to amazing canyon views above Lake Clementine. Stage 3 takes place on Culvert Trail – a flow trail with banks, berms, jumps and a tunnel under Foresthill Road. The fourth and final stage is the Confluence Trail from Mammoth Bar OHV along the Middle Fork of the American River to the confluence where the middle fork meets the north fork. Post-race party with BBQ, craft beer, awards and shenanighans round out a great day on the bike. Professional timing provided by California Enduro Series. Learn more at totalbodyfitness.com.
April 11-14, Monterey
Located in Northern California’s Sonoma and Mendocino counties, each “Hopper” is unique in its route and terrain and challenges both cyclist and equipment like no other race series in the world. Remaining 2019 series events include: Super Sweetwater Feb 16, Lake Sonoma MTB March 23, Skaggs & Super Skaggs Apr 27, King Ridge Dirt Supreme May 11, Jackson Forest June 22. Other Hopper Adventure events include: Huffmaster Hopper Apr 20, Mendo Hopper Sept 14-15, Usal Hopper Oct 12. Learn more at grasshopperadventureseries.com 22 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
THE GREAT AUBURN EPIC RACE
GROVELAND GRIND
May 18, Groveland The Groveland Trail Heads mountain biking club brings back this unique fundraising cycling event for its second year. The Groveland Grind is a multi-terrain (pavement, broken pavement, gravel, small rocks and dirt) adventure ride at Yosemite National Park’s doorstep. Riders will experience everything the majestic Stanislaus National Forest has to offer including grinding climbs, challenging terrain, and some of Mother Nature’s most amazing views. With three routes to choose from, cyclists of all skill levels in good physical condition can participate. All three routes are truly special as they hug the border of Yosemite National Park, with some sections on the original road and railroad to Yosemite. A post ride party tops off the day, complete with food, beer, and a raffle. Proceeds support the Ferretti NonMotorized Trail System project (mountain bike trails). Learn more at grovelandtrailheads.org.
Photo: Kasey Carames / CES
Photo: Scott Rokin
February 16-24, Lake Tahoe & Truckee
2019 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR Go to the EVENTS page on our website for more information and direct links to each event.
BIKING MAY
FEBRUARY 9 — Chico Velo Love Ride / Butte County Fairgrounds, Gridley / ChicoVelo.org 10 — MTB Challenge - Cross Country Mountain Bike Racing / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 16 — Camino Real Double Century / Irvine / PlanetUltra.com 16 — Super Sweetwater / Sonoma County / Grasshopper Adventure Series #2; 73mi & 52mi options, road & dirt / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com 24 — MTB Madness - Cross Country Mountain Bike Racing / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
MARCH 3 — Chico Velo Tour de Ed / Chico / ChicoVelo.org 10 — MTB Showdown - Cross Country Mountain Bike Racing / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 23 — Bike MS: Los Angeles / Pasadena / BikeMS.org 23 — Lake Sonoma MTB / Lake Sonoma / Grasshopper Adventure Series #3; 25 mi, 100% singletrack / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com 23 — Solvang Double Century / Lompoc / PlanetUltra.com 24 — MTB Championship - Cross Country MTB Racing / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
4 — Cosumnes Crusher / Rancho Murieta / A unique cycling race on historic gold mining routes and modern era singletrack / TotalBodyFitness.com
18 — Groveland Grind / Groveland / Multi-terrain adventure ride in the Stanislaus National Forest near Yosemite / GrovelandTrailheads.org
4 — Santa Cruz Old Cabin Classic / Wilder Ranch / OldCabinClassic.com
18 — Heartbreak Double Century / Palmdale / PlanetUltra.com
4 — Wine Country Century / Santa Rosa / 4 routes / SRCC.com/WCC
19 — Strawberry Fields Forever Ride / Watsonville / Fully supported; 30mi, 60mi, 100mi options. Benefits Cyclists for Cultural Exchange / StrawberryFields.org
5 — California Dirt MTB Series #2 / Nevada City (DA/Round Mtn) / All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.org 5 — Delta Century / Lodi / DeltaCentury.org 5 — Grizzly Peak Century / Moraga / 3 routes / Grizz.org/century 9 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #1 / Escondido / quickndirtymtb.com 11 — I Care Classic Bike Tour / San Jose / 4 routes / ICareClassic.org
25-30 — Solvang Spring Tour / Hadsten House, Solvang / PlanetUltra.com
11 — King Ridge Supreme / Sonoma County / Grasshopper Adventure Series #5; 80mi & 62mi options, road & gravel / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com
30-31 — Sagebrush Safari / Campo / XC 18mi & 26mi + kids’ race on Sat; Super D on Sun / quickndirtymtb.com
16 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #2 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
20 — Sierra Century / Plymouth / SacWheelmen.org/SierraCentury.org
11-14 — Sea Otter Classic / Monterey / World’s Premier Cycling Festival! / SeaOtterClassic.com
27 — Bike Around the Buttes / Sutter / BikeAroundTheButtes.com
13 — Mulholland Challenge / Agoura Hills / PlanetUltra.com 13 — Mulholland Double Century / Agoura Hills / PlanetUltra.com 14 — California Dirt MTB Series #1 / Sea Otter Classic / All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.org 20 — Huffmaster Hopper / Maxwell / 80mi & 54mi options, 50/50 gravel & remote county pavement; benefits Camp Fire victims / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com
27 — Skaggs & Super Skaggs / Mendo & Sonoma Counties / Grasshopper Adventure Series #4; 96 miles, 100% road or mixed terrain options / Grasshopper AdventureSeries.com 28 — Chico Velo Wildflower Century / Chico / WildflowerCentury.org 28 — The Great Auburn Epic Race / Auburn SRA / Four timed XC stages on Auburn’s best trails; post-race BBQ, beer & awards / TotalBodyFitness.com 28 — Wine Country Tour de Cure / Sonoma State University / Tour.Diabetes.org
MAY TBD — Silicon Valley Bikes! Festival & Bicycle Show / History Park, San Jose / celebrating cycling and its history, family fun, community building, and an off-the-hook bicycle show / SiliconValleyBikesFestival.org
24-26 — Ensenada Bike Fest / Ensenada, Baja California (MX) / Inaugural mountain bike fest includes California Enduro Series kick off + dual slalom, XC & more / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com 24-27 — Great Western Bike Rally / Paso Robles / GreatWesternBicycleRally.com 25 — California Dirt MTB Series #3 / Susanville Ranch Park / All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.org 30 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #4 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com 31-Jun 2 — Wente 8 Hour Mountain Bike Rice Camp / Willits / BikeMonkey.net
JUNE
APRIL 6 — Gran Fondo Las Vegas / Las Vegas, NV / PlanetUltra.com
23 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #3 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
1 — Wente 8 Hour XC / Willits / BikeMonkey.com
15-22 — Sierra to the Sea Bicycle Tour / Lake Tahoe to SF/ SierraToTheSea.org
1 — Lost & Found Gravel Grinder / Lake Davis / 30mi, 60mi, 100mi / SierraTrails.org
16 — Sonoma County CF Cycle for Life / Penngrove / FightCF.cff.org
2 — America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride / Lake Tahoe / 100mi & 72mi road ride around Lake Tahoe; Boat Cruise/35-mile option available / BikeTheWest.com
20 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #6 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
8 — Incarnation 100 / Santa Rosa / 32mi, 45mi, 100K & 100mi / Incarnation100.org
22 — Climb to Kaiser / Clovis / ClimbToKaiser.com
8 — Sacramento CF Cycle for Life / Penngrove / FightCF.cff.org
22 — Jackson Forest / Mendocino County / Grasshopper Adventure Series Finale; 75mi & 50mi options, 90% dirt/gravel/singletrack / GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com
8 — Tour of Two Forests / Santa Clarita / PlanetUltra.com
22 — Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race / Tahoe City / AdventureSportsWeekTahoe.com
8 — Tour of the Unknown Coast / Humboldt County / TUCcycle.org
22 — Girls Rock Women’s Mountain Biking Event / Santa Cruz / EpicenterCycling.com
13 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #5 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
23 — California Dirt MTB Series #4 / Grass Valley / All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.com
15 — Mammoth Bar Enduro / Mammoth Bar OHV & Auburn SRA / Four timed enduro flowy & technical stages; post-race meal, prizes & awards / TotalBodyFitness.com
23 — Silicon Valley Tour de Cure / Palo Alto / Tour.Diabetes.org
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BIKING, cont. JUNE
SEPTEMBER, cont.
27 — Quick n’ Dirty Summer Series Race #7 / Escondido / QuicknDirtyMTB.com 29-30 — China Peak Enduro / Lakeshore / California Enduro Series # 2 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com
13-15 — Silver State 508 / Reno, NV / the508.net
21-22 — Bike MS: Waves to Wine / Rohnert Park / WavesToWine.org
14 — Old Growth Classic / Big Basin / 21-28 — Arthritis Foundation’s California Coast Classic Bike Tour / San Francisco OldGrowthClassic.com to Los Angeles / Ride the iconic Highway 1 14-15 — Mendo Hopper / Mendocino fully supported at your own pace / Events. County / Day 1: 75mi, Day 2: 79mi; mixed Arthritis.org 13-14 — Mt. Shasta Enduro / Mt. Shasta Ski terrain, camping & meals included / Park, McCloud / California Enduro Series # GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com 22-28 — OATBRAN (One Awesome Tour 3 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com Bike Ride Across Nevada) / Lake Tahoe 20-21 — Sierra Prospect / Carson City / to Baker, NV / Epic cycling journey across 20 — Santa Cruz Mountains BikeMonkey.net Nevada / BikeTheWest.com Challenge / UCSC Baskin School of Engineering, Santa Cruz / Four ride 21 — Gold Rush Growler MTB Race / 28 — Tri-States Gran Fondo / Mesquite, options featuring challenging climbs, Folsom / TotalBodyFitness.com NV / PlanetUltra.com coastal views and gorgeous scenery / 21 — Stetina’s Sierra Prospect / Mt Rose / SantaCruzMountainsChallenge.com 28 — Grinduro / Quincy / Gravel grinder plus SierraProspect.com MTB style enduro, 2 dayfestival / Grinduro.com
JULY 7 — California Dirt MTB Series #5 / Nevada City (Dascombe/Hoot/Pioneer)/ All ages & levels. Music, food, raffles. Proceeds benefit YBONC & more / YBONC.org 13 — Death Ride - Tour of the California Alps / Markleeville / 5 pass ride, 129 mi, and 15,000 feet of lung-busting climbing / DeathRide.com
AUGUST
1-4 — Downieville Classic MTB Race and Festival / Downieville / All Mountain World Championships, XC Adventure Race, Downieville Downhill / DownievilleClassic.com 3 — Marin Century / Marin County Fairgrounds / 6 routes / MarinCyclists.com 23-25 — Northstar Enduro / Truckee / CES #4; EWS #7 / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com
SEPTEMBER TBD — Mammoth Mountain Enduro / Mammoth Lakes / California Enduro Series #5 / californiaenduroseries.com 8 — Tour de Tahoe - Bike Big Blue / Lake Tahoe / 72-mile road ride around Lake Tahoe; Boat Cruise/35-mile option available / BikeTheWest.com
OCTOBER 4-6 — Levi’s GranFondo / Santa Rosa / 5 routes / LevisGranFondo.com
13 — TBF MTB 50-Miler / Granite Bay, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
5 — Ashland Mountain Challenge / Ashland, 19 — Solvang Autumn Double Century OR / CES Finale / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com & Solvang’s Finest Century / Solvang / PlanetUltra.com 6 — Great Trail Race / Truckee /Tahoe City / MTB or run / GreatTrailRace.com 19-20 — Hammer Road Rally / Mountains east of Fresno / BikeMonkey.net 12 — Usal Hopper / Humboldt & Mendocino Counties / 60, 43, & 32mi 26 — Filthy 50+ / Escondido / Fast, flowy options, mixed terrain; camping included / 30mi & 50mi courses. Kids’ course, raffle, GrasshopperAdventureSeries.com awards & more / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
JO I N U S F O R THE RIDE OF A LIFE TIME! RIDE TH E ICONIC H IGH WAY 1.
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2019
X-C BIKE SERIES ALL AGES & LEVELS + KIDS COURSE
BIKE RACES • MUSIC • RAFFLES • FOOD APRil 14 SEA OTTER CLASSIC • MAY 5 nevada city (da/round mtn) MAY 25 SUSANVILLE RANCH PARK • JUNe 23 GRASS VALLEy JULy 7 NEVADA CITY (dascombe/hoot/pioneer)
PROCEEDS BENEFIT YBONC AND NEVADA COUNTY AREA TRAILS, SCHOOL BIKE CLUBS, AND PROJECTS. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT YBONC.ORG.
24 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
2019 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR Go to the EVENTS page on our website for more information and direct links to each event.
BIKING, cont.
MISCELLANEOUS Feb 16-24 — Alpenglow Mountain Festival / Lake Tahoe & Truckee / See Event Profile on page 22 / AlpenglowSports.com
NOVEMBER TBD — Santa Rosa Cup XC / Santa Rosa /BikeMonkey.net
Feb 21-24 — Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour - Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz / Ignite your passion for adventure, action & travel. Benefits UCSC Wilderness Orientation Scholarship Fund / recreation.ucsc.edu
1-2 — Sagan Fondo Windsor / Windsor / BikeMonkey.net 2-3 — Nevada County Women’s Mountain Bike Skills Clinic & Camp / Nevada City / YBONC.org
March 15 — The Bikes of Wrath / Santa Cruz / Film about five Australian friends who attempt to cycle 2600 kms from Oklahoma to California / riotheatre.com
23 — Death Valley Century / Death Valley National Park / PlanetUltra.com
AUGUST
PADDLING APRIL 27-28 — Kern River Festival / Kernville / KernFestival.com
MAY 11-12 — Reno River Festival / Reno, Tahoe / / RenoRiverFestival.com
JUNE 1 — Donner Lake Paddle Racing / Donner Lake / Tahoepaddleracing.com
JULY TBD — Annual Jay Moriarity Memorial Paddleboard Race / Capitola / JayMoriarityFoundation.org
10-11 —Ta-Hoe Nalu Paddle Festival / Kings Beach State Park Lake Tahoe / World’s original SUP race, all ages and skill levels, clinics and demos / TahoeNalu.com 11 — Bay Parade / San Francisco Bay / BayKeeper.org/bayparade
RUNNING FEBRUARY 9 — Escape from Folsom 5K & 10 Mile Trail Runs / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
24 — Westshore Rally / Lake Tahoe / Tahoepaddleracing.com
9 — The “tiny” Half Marathon, 10K, 5K & Kids’ Run / Galt / OnYourMarkEvents.com
SEPTEMBER
23 — Almond Blossom Run / Ripon / OnYourMarkEvents.com
15 — Tahoe Cup Lake Crossing / Lake Tahoe / Tahoepaddleracing.com
E R I C A ’ S
A M
8 — Dirty 30 / Poway / Fun and challenging 30(ish)mi XC race in Sycamore Canyon / QuicknDirtyMTB.com
27-29 — Feather River Festival / Tobin / Feather Fest — California’s biggest whitewater festival / AmericanWhitewater.org
B
I K E
E
DECEMBER
D R I
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2019 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR Go to the EVENTS page on our website for more information and direct links to each event.
RUNNING, cont.
24 — XTERRA Black Mountain Trail Run / San Diego / TrailRace.com 27-28 — SLO Marathon / San Luis Obispo / Plus half & relay races / RaceSLO.com
FEBRUARY
28 — Big Sur International Marathon / 23 — Lost Trail Half Marathon & 5K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com Big Sur / BigSurMarathon.org 24 — Surfer’s Path 10K/5K / Santa Cruz & Capitola / Coastal courses feature ocean views and a beachfront finish / RunSurfersPath.com 24 — XTERRA Crystal Cove Trail Run / Laguna Beach / TrailRace.com
MARCH
APRIL
2 — Way Too Cool 50K / Cool / Breathtaking trails with amazing views. / NorCalUltras.com
MAY 4 — Armstrong Redwoods Trail Run / Guerneville / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 4 — Miwok 100K / Stinson Beach / Miwok100K.com
6 — American River 50 Mile Endurance Run / Calistoga / 25- & 50- mile / norcalultras.com 4 — Ripon’s Run Half Marathon, 10K & 5K / Ripon / OnYourMarkEvents.com 7 — Mighty Dog 5K & 10K Trail Runs / Granite 3 — Chinese New Year Run / San Francisco Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 4 — T9 Mermaid Run East Bay / Fremont / OnYourMarkEvents.com / MermaidSeries.com 13 — Mt. Tam Wild Boar Half Marathon 9 — Chanoko Trail Run / Granite Beach, & 10K / Mt. Tamalpais State Park / 4 — Wild Wild West Marathon / Folsom Lake SRA / 50K, 31K, 5mi Envirosports.com Lone Pine / plus 50K, 50mi, & 10mi / courses; post-race meal, prizes & awards / LonePineChamber.org/events TotalBodyFitness.com 13 — Run.Sweat.Love Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds / Walk, jog or run 5 — Aztec 5K Run/Walk / Oakland / 17 — Go Green / San Jose / Half Marathon, this fun 5k / RunSweatLove.com OnYourMarkEvents.com 10K & 5K / FinishLineProduction.com 23 — She.is.beautiful 5K & 10K / Santa Cruz / RunSheisbeautiful.com
26 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
21 — Ridge-to-Bridge / Marin County / RidgeTrail.RallyBound.org
11 — Miracle Miles for Kids 10K Walk/Run / Morro Bay / MM4k.com
11 — Muir Woods Marathon, Half Marathon, & 7 Mile / Stinson Beach / Challenging trail run / EnviroSports.com 11 — Quicksilver Endurance Runs - 100K & 50K / San Jose / Quicksilver-Running.com 12 — Mother’s Day 5K & Happy Kids 3K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 18 — Oakdale Chocolate Festival Run / Oakdale / OnYourMarkEvents.com 18 — XTERRA Malibu Creek Trail Run / Malibu / TrailRace.com 19 — Surfer’s Path Marathon, Capitola Half Marathon & Relay / Santa Cruz & Capitola / Scenic, coastal courses travel past world famous surf breaks. Surfs UP! / RunSurfersPath.com
JUNE 1 — Bishop High Sierra Ultras / Bishop / 20mi, 50K, 50mi, & 100K in the scenic foothills of the Eastern Sierra Nevada / BishopUltras.com 2 — Run in the Name of Love / Carmel-bythe-Sea / Run4Love.org
RUNNING, cont. 2 — Truckee Running Festival: Waddle Ranch Trail Half, Legacy 5K & 10K / Truckee, CA / TahoeTrailRunning.com 8-9 — Marine Corps Mud Run / Camp Pendleton / MarineCorpsMudRun.com 9 — Squaw Valley Half and Run to Squaw 8 Miler / Olympic Valley / SquawValleyHalf.com 15 — Bootleg Beatdown Trail Run / Bootleg Canyon, Boulder City, NV / 5K, 5mi, 10mi / DesertDash.com 15-17 — Badwater 135 / Furnace Creek & Lone Pine / BadWater.com 23 — Burton Creek Trail Runs / Tahoe City / 6K, 12K, Half Marathon / TahoeTrailRunning.com
JULY 4 — Run to The Beach / Tahoe Vista / 5K & 10K / TahoeTrailRunning.com 6 — Hernia Hill Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run / Vallecito / OnYourMarkEvents.com 6 — She Rocks the Trails / Auburn / 10- & 25- mile options /NorCalUltras.com 28 — Biofreeze San Francisco Marathon / San Francisco / TheSFMarathon.com
AUGUST 3 — Twilight Trail Adventure / Auburn / 5K & 10K options / NorCalUltras.com 11 — Marlette 50K and 10 Miler (50K RRCA Western Region Championship, 10 Miler RRCA NV State Championship) / Lake Tahoe’s East Shore / TahoeTrailRunning.com 17 — Moonlight Madness / Cottonwood Valley, Las Vegas, NV / Half marathon with 1,650’ vertical climb / DesertDash.com 17 — XTERRA Trail Run 5K & 10K (10K RRCA NV State Championship) / Incline Village, NV / TahoeTrailRunning.com 25 — Good Dog - Dirty Dog 5K/10K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
SEPTEMBER TBD — Truckee Marathon / Truckee / Plus Half Marathon, 50K, & 10K / TruckeeMarathon.com 8 — Delta Harvest Run / Brentwood / OnYourMarkEvents.com 8 — XTERRA Laguna Beach Trail Run & Triathlon / Crystal Cove State Park / TrailRace.com 14 — Headlands Hundred / Sausalito / 100mi, 75mi, Triple Marathon, 50mi, Marathon / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 14 — She.Is.Beautiful / Santa Barbara / RunSheIsBeautiful.com
15 — Emerald Bay Trail Run / Lake Tahoe West Shore / TahoeTrailRunning.com 21 — Gold Rush Growler 10 mile & 5K Trail Runs / Granite Beach / TotalBodyFitness. com 21 — Lederhosen 5K / Olympic Valley / TahoeTrailRunning.com 28 — Big Sur Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & 5 Mile / Big Sur / EnviroSports.com 29 — Pacific Grove Double Road Race / Pacific Grove / 6 events / PGdouble.com
OCTOBER 5-6 — Skyline to the Sea Marathon, Half Marathon, & 50K / Saratoga / PacificCoastTrailRuns.com 6 — Great Trail Race / Truckee/Tahoe City / Mountain bike or run / GreatTrailRace.com 6 — Urban Cow Half Marathon, Relay, & 5K Run/Walk / Sacramento / UrbanCowHalf.com 12 — Ruth Anderson Memorial Endurance Run / Lake Merced, San Francisco / UltraSignUp.com 19 — BGCSF Halloween 5K / San Francisco / Sports Basement Presidio / SportsBasement.com 20 — Folsom Blues Breakout 13.1 / Folsom / Plus 5K, relay, & kids’ 1K / FolsomBluesHalf.org 20 — Surfer’s Path Hang 10/5 / Santa Cruz & Capitola / 10mi or 5 mi / RunSurfersPath.com 20 — T9 Mermaid Run San Francisco / Golden Gate Bridge / 5K, 10K, Sirena 10mi, Virtual Run/ MermaidSeries.com 26 — Carrera De Los Muertos / Downtown LA / LosMuertos5K.com 26-27 — SLO Ultra Trail Races and SLO County Ultra Games/ Lopez Lake, San Luis Obispo / 50K, Half, 5K / SLOultra.com
NOVEMBER 2 — Quarry Crusher Run Chula Vista / Chula Vista / QuarryCrusherRun.com 2 — Rio Del Lago 100 Mile Endurance Run / Folsom / NorCalUltras.com 6-11 — Tun Tavern Ten Virtual 10K & 10Mile Run / Your Location / mccscp.com/ TunTen 9 — Trails of Glory Trail Run / Cottonwood Valley, Las Vegas, NV / DesertDash.com 10 — Monterey Half Marathon / Monterey Bay / MontereyBayHalfMarathon.org 28 — Turkey Trot Los Angeles / Downtown LA / TurkeyTrot.LA 29 — Black Mountain Friday Trail Run / Sloan Canyon, Henderson, NV / #optoutside on Black Friday / DesertDash.com
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RUNNING, cont. DECEMBER TBD — Hark the Herald Half Marathon & 10K / Angel Island / EnviroSports.com 7 — Death Valley Trail Marathon and Half Marathon / Death Valley National Park/ Scenic wilderness trail / EnviroSports.com 8 — California International Marathon / Folsom / #1 Boston Qualifier / RunCIM.org 9 — Jingle Bell Rock / Santa Cruz / FinishLineProduction.com
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING FEBRUARY 2-3 — Siskiyou Cup Giant Slalom / Mt. Shasta Bike Park, McCloud / SkiPark.com 3 — Alan Bard Memorial Classic / Mammoth Lakes / FarWestNordic.org 10 — Tahoe Donner Challenge / Tahoe Donner XC, Truckee / TahoeDonner.com 16-24 — Alpenglow Mountain Festival / Lake Tahoe & Truckee / AlpenglowSports.com 24 — Alpenglow 20k Freestyle / Tahoe XC / TahoeXC.org
MARCH 3 — The Great Ski Race / Tahoe City to Truckee / TheGreatSkiRace.com 6-9 — Toyota US Snowboard & Freeski Grand Prix / MammothMountain.com 12-17 — Toyota US Revolution Tour / Mammoth Lakes / MammothMountain.com 9-10 — 46th Bjornloppet Ski Race & Festival / Bear Valley / BearValleyXC.com
17 — Sierra Slogsloppet XC Race / Tahoe Donner XC, Truckee / TahoeDonner.com 22-24 — Coyote Classic Super G / Mt. Shasta Bike Park, McCloud / SkiPark.com 23 — California Gold Rush Festival / Royal Gorge, Soda Springs / FarWestNordic.org 30 — Gunbarrel 25 / South Lake Tahoe / See page 20 / tahoesouth.com/events/ 30 — Over the Hill Classic Giant Slalom Race / Mt. Shasta Bike Park / SkiPark.com 31 — Gene Landsman Super Slalom Race / Mt. Shasta Bike Park, McCloud / SkiPark.com
APRIL TBD — Billy Dutton Uphill / Squaw Valley / FarWestNordic.org 6 — Tom’s Race / Bear Valley / BearValleyXC.com 7 — Mammoth Marathon / Mammoth Lakes / FarWestNordic.org
SWIMMING APRIL 7 — ICE Breaker 1/2 mile, 1 mile & 2 mile Open Water Swims / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
JUNE 29 — Tahoe City Swim / Tahoe City / TahoeSwimming.com
24 — Alcatraz Swim with the Centurions / San Francisco / WaterWorldSwim.com 24 — Lake Tahoe Open Water Swim / Tahoma / TahoeSwimming.com 25 — Golden Gate Sharkfest Swim / Sausalito / SharkFestSwim.com
JULY
SEPTEMBER
21 — Alpine Fresh Water Swim / Truckee / TahoeSwimming.com
7 — Alcatraz Invitational / San Francisco / 1.27mi open water swim / South-End.org
27 — Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim / San Francisco / 1.5mi from Alcatraz to Aquatic Park / SharkFestSwim.com
25 — San Francisco Bay Area Swim / San Francisco / SwimAcrossAmerica.org
AUGUST 18 — Lake Tahoe Sharkfest Swim / Incline Village, NV / SharkFestSwim.com 28 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
22 — Golden Gate Bridge Swim / San Francisco / WaterWorldSwim.com
OCTOBER 13 — San Diego Sharkfest Swim / San Diego Harbor / SharkFestSwim.com
MARKETPLACE
Learn the skills of a pro from a pro!
2019 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR
Go to the EVENTS page on our website for more information and direct links to each event.
TRIATHLON/DUATHLON MTB Skills Coaching • Certified IMBA ICP 1,2,3 • NICA 1, 2, 3 • USA Cycling Level 2 & 3 • Betterride Certified • 4,500+ hours of professional coaching
FEBRUARY
MAY
AUGUST
9 — Double Duathlon & Happy Kids Duathlon #2 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
19 — Morgan Hill Sprint Triathlon / UVAS Reservoir, Morgan Hill / 3/4mi swim, 16mi bike, 5mi run / USAPevents.com
10 & 11 — TRI for FUN / KIDS / REAL Triathlon #3 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
23 — Happy Kids Duathlon #3 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
JUNE
MARCH 9 — Happy Kids Duathlon #4 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
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23 — MTB Sprint Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 23 — REAL Mountain Bike Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom Lake SRA / Swim 1mi, Bike 24mi, Run 5mi; post-race meal, prizes & awards / TotalBodyFitness.com
APRIL 6 — ICE Breaker Triathlon & ICE Breaker Dash Triathlon/Duathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 28 — Millerton Lake Triathlon (Crow’s Nest) / Millerton Lake / Sprint & Olympic / 5K & 10K Runs / SierraCascades.com
MAY 3-5 — Wildflower Experience / Lake San Antonio Shore, Bradley / WildflowerExperience.com 11 — Folsom Lake International Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom Lake SRA / Lake swim, one lap road bike, scenic trail run; post-race massage & meal / TotalBodyFitness.com
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About our marketing packages We offer a wide range of promo tools to boost your business’ visibility. We’ll customize a plan that’s just right for your budget and objectives! staff@adventuresportsjournal.com 30 ASJ — Feb/March 2019
12 — Mother’s Day Triathlon/Duathlon, 5K & Happy Kids 3K / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
11 — Tri Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz / FinishLineProduction.com
2 — Orange County Tri Series / Lake Mission Viejo / 1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run / OCTriSeries.com
17 — XTERRA Lake Tahoe / Incline Village, NV / BigBlueAdventure.com
8 — TRI for FUN Triathlon #1 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
18 — Oakland Triathlon / Jack London Square / OaklandTri.com
9 — Monte Rio Triathlon / Sonoma County / & Aqua Bike, 10K & 5K run / VineMan.com
24 — 22nd Annual Granite Bay Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
9 — Tri for Kids Triathlon #1 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
24-25 — Lake Tahoe Triathlon / Tahoma / LakeTahoeTri.com
23 — California Triathlons / Pleasanton & Livermore / USAPevents.com
SEPTEMBER
29 — XTERRA Tahoe City / Tahoe City / AdventureSportsWeekTahoe.com
7 — Women’s Triathlon Festival / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
30 — Dip and Dash Swim-Run & Team Challenge / Santa Cruz / 3 distance options / FinishLineProduction.com
8 — Ironman 70.3 Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz / Ironman.com 15 — SuperKid Triathlon / Santa Cruz / FinishLineProduction.com
JULY
22 — Santa Cruz Triathlon / Santa Cruz / SantaCruzTriathlon.org
13 — June Lake Triathlon / June Lake / HighSierraAthletics.com 13 — TRI for FUN Triathlon #2 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com 14 — Tri for Kids & Real Triathlon #2 / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
28 — Pacific Coast Triathlon/Duathlon / Crystal Cove State Beach / OCTriSeries.com 29 — Golden State Triathlon & Super Sprint Triathlon / Granite Beach, Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com
OCTOBER
JULY , cont. 20-21 — Donner Lake Triathlon / Truckee / Half Tri, 70.3, Olympic Tri, Sprint Tri, Kids’ Tri, Aquabike / DonnerLakeTri.com
5 — T9 Mermaid Triathlon & Duathlon / Capitola / International Tri, Sprint Tri, Sprint Du / MermaidSeries.com
When you aren’t racing... PROFESSIONAL MTB CLINICS with A Single Track Mind
Skills Coaching / 1-day Core Fundamentals — Feb 23, Morro Bay / March 9, Oakland / May 5, Palo Alto 2-day Core Fundamentals — Feb 23-24, San Diego / April 6-7, Sedona / July 6-7, Trukee For more dates and clinics go to ASingleTrackMind.com
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