2008 Frozen Hog

If you remember a few posts back, I listed a few things that I hoped to accomplish in 2008. Of that list, one of the items was to compete in more bicycle races this year. I had my first chance to make good on that goal this past Saturday. Every year, utahmountainbiking.com puts on the Frozen Hog mountain bike race in Alpine, UT. I've raced it in the past, but I have to be honest, it's not the most fun race. I mean I guess it's ok if your idea of fun is trying, and I emphasize "trying", to ride your bike in below freezing weather through deep snow and mud for over an hour! This year was no different. It had snowed a lot the week before the race so the trail was deep with the white stuff. I decided to team up with a few buddies of mine, Joe and Jason Gardner, along with a buddy of their's Scott Wetzel. We donned the team moniker of "The Chosen Frozen" and set out to take the team title away from Racer's Cycle Service, who has won the trophy the past three or four years. The first lap went well and I put some time into the rest of the sport field. However, by the time the second lap came around, the course was pretty chewed up and barely ridable in some sections. I walked/carried my bike so much it felt as if it was cross season again! Joe and I fought back and forth for the latter part of the second lap, but he's a more accomplished snow rider than I and he beat me by over a minute. Good job Joe!! Jason finished second in sport 30-39 and Scott absolutely smoked the entire field, even Kenny Jones, taking the overall win! That was enough to give us the team title! We are now proud "temporary" owners of the prestigious Frozen Hog Trophy. I guess I'll have to do it again next year to defend the title!



Here's me cruising through the first lap.


Another first lap photo. Even Kelsey would have enjoyed this!!!



By the time the 2nd lap came around, I was off the bike more than on!!



What a beautiful Trophy!