NUE Pierre’s Hole 100K

Posted on September 5, 2018 by Shannon Boffeli

Written by: @JenToops & Marlee Dixon @graciedaze

The next stop in the NUE series, Pierre’s Hole, is a rugged 32 mile single track loop that takes racers all over Grand Targhee Resort. If you’re able to look up out of the chest high wildflowers, the views down into the valley and of the Tetons at Pierre’s Hole 100 are breathtaking. At 7:00am on a beautiful cool morning, the 100 mile racers start their three lap race followed at 8:10am by the 100k racers and at 8:40am by the 50k racers. The race starts with a grueling 1700’ climb up the resort separating everyone for the 95% single track course. Once at the top, racers head down 38 special for a memorable descent with 38 switchbacks. Climbing back up the resort slopes again, riders enjoy an exhilarating high alpine descent down to aid 1 and back down to the resort base area. The next two loops are an undulating combination of meadows, forests, twisty and smooth single track that brings racers back to the start/finish for the end of lap 1.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

With temps in the low 70s, a race venue at Grand Targhee resort full of campers, hot showers, local beers, good food and kids activities as well an epic single track course; this is a race geared towards the avid mountain bike racers as well as the family-friendly and casual racers.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

Open Men

Brown takes the top step

1st-Josh Brown, 2nd-David Wiens, 3rd-Tanner Visnick, 4th-George Flynn, 5th-Davey Mitchell

Taking the top step in the Open Men’s division was, Josh Brown (Bountiful Bike) crossing the line in 5:18:47.

“Race day was an absolute blast. I entered not knowing what to expect or where my fitness was as it was my first race of the season.I quickly realized up the first long climb that I had the legs that day. When we rolled over the first climb I was sitting in second behind George Flynn, with a couple of seconds on third and fourth. We maintained those couple of seconds for the entirety of the first lap, which was a very fun. George was setting a great pace and it was fun to sit on his wheel.

Just as we finished lap number one, Dave Wiens closed the gap and there was now three of us. While climbing the first big climb of lap two I could feel George fading a bit and knew that I had more legs than he did. So at the top of the climb just as it turns into an ATV road, I put in a hard surge and put about 15 seconds on George and Dave.

Down the long decent I knew that I would have to put a good amount of time into Dave if I wanted to be able to hold him off. So I pushed my comfort zone a little down the decent. I could see Dave for most of lap two, he was pegged at about two minutes back. There were times on switch backs that I would try and duck/hide behind bushes and trees to keep out of his sight. (Out of sight out of mind ;)). I somehow managed to hold the gap and cross the finish line in first. It was a great day and an amazing course! Another fun day on the bike.”

David Wiens (Topeak Ergon IMBA), takes second in a time of 5:21:13.

“Racing Pierre’s Hole was a blast! A most stunning place to ride, friendly, laid back people, awesome trails that wouldn’t end, and top-notch race organization. On the first climb, five of us quickly separated from the field with Tanner Visnick and Josh Brown both looking strong. There was a ton of singletrack and while it was fairly smooth and fast, it required concentration as the vegetation, including awesome wildflowers, encroached from the sides and you were never quite sure what the trail was going to do around each corner: continue fast, switchback up hard to the right, switchback down to the left, you get the idea – lots of quick braking and shifting and getting back on the pedals accelerating.

I was dangling out alone in 5^thearly in the first lap but steadily moved up into 3^rdand caught the leaders as we hit the halfway point and embarked on lap 2. Josh rode a stellar race, marking the front and not charging until he hit the big descent on lap two. There, I jumped on his wheel and into second place but he put solid time on me on the descent. From that point on, I would get a glimpse of him now and then, but I could always tell he was feeling good and dancing on the pedals. Congrats to Josh and Tanner and everyone else that raced. I was happy with my race and also pretty stoked to not be riding another lap like the 100-mile riders. My hat is off to those men and women for sure.”

Rounding out the podium was, Tanner Visnick (Steamboat Velo) at 5:30:35.

Open Women

Harvey defends title on home turf

1st-Caedran Harvey, 2nd-Marlee Dixon, 3rd-Christy Olsen, 4th-Jen Toops, 5th-Jaime Brede

Winner of the 2017 Pierre’s Hole 100k, Caedran Harvey (Fitzgerald’s Bicycles), defends her title winning the 2018 Pierre’s Hole 100k at 6:09:12. Coming from Fairplay, CO, Marlee Dixon, Pearl Izumi/Pivot Cycles, takes second in 6:15:43. Taking third place was Christy Olsen, 1890 Cycling/Crazy Pedaler, crossing the line in 6:30:55.

Singlespeed

Toops gets four back-to-back NUE wins

1st-Anthony Toops, 2nd-Brad Keyes, 3rd-Weston Hutchinson, 4th-Jordan Radin, 5th-Michael Riley

Ohio racer, Anthony Toops (Paradise Garage), gets his fourth NUE Marathon singlespeed win finishing with a time of 6:18:14. This gives Toops a perfect score of four in the overall NUE series for singlespeed.

“Pierre’s Hole was a “bonus race” on the calendar this year since I wasn’t sure if I could make it… and it was a tough one! I had no expectations coming into this one but I did know the suffering would be high. Little did I know my low lander fitness would eventually show itself halfway through.

From the gun the race started off on a long cat-track climb where the positions sorted out before hitting the singletrack (95% singletrack on this course). I immediately took note of my power and effort being held back by the high elevation so the strategy was to never go too hard; just hard enough.

I managed to cap off the first lap pretty much on pace with my plan, but that’s when the wall hit me in the face. At around the 3:30 mark I was in survival mode. I honestly don’t remember a ton of that lap as I was just head down trying to keep the pedals turning over. I’m not sure if its all the recent racing catching up to me but the elevation certainly spares no one from its pain. I did manage to get some motivating words from Greg Gollete as he motored past about 1/3 of the way through the lap. I just kept trying to tick the miles off, stay upright, and keep my competitors out of site.

Coming up the last kicker and seeing the finish line was such a relief! After tons of rugged singletrack, brutal climbs, and fast switchbacks, I was pretty much wrecked!

My gearing was 32×20, which was a little hard I think. I’ll probably go easier next time since it’s a climb-descend type of course.

Thank you to Andy for putting on an amazing race, all the volunteers for their hard work, and always Paradise Garage who keep me rolling!”

Brad Keyes (CarboRocket) excited to cross the finish line!

Taking second was, Brad Keyes (Carborocket) crossing the line at 6:46:26. Just four minutes back was, Weston Hutchinson (Elevate) finishing at 6:50:00.

Masters

Local racer Llinares takes the top step

1st-Mark Llinares, 2nd-Greg Golet, 3rd-Michael Piker, 4th-Gardner Brown, 5th-Klaus Fleischmann

Local Mark Llinares (The Hub), proved his strength on his home course taking the win in 5:55:44.

2017 Epic Masters NUE champion, Greg Golet (Team Chico) took second at 6:06:06.

“Pierre’s Hole just keeps getting better! This year added a new section of trail that eliminated the pavement! Some complained that they no longer had the road to recover on, but I was glad to stay in the woods. The course was super fun and varied, and as always provided a true test of fitness—and cornering skills through endless sections of switchbacks. On race day the air was clear, and the Tetons were out!! Everyone’s spirits were high. Such a nice contrast to the ridiculously smoky California where I had come from, and where for the last few weeks we’ve been advised to stay indoors.

I set a fairly fast but comfortable pace and was first after lap 1, but only by a minute (although I didn’t know the differential at the time, of course). Then on the upper part of the biggest climb of the second lap, a courteous fellow with an Aussie(?) accent cruised passed me. All I could do was watch him go. I didn’t know who he was or if he was in my class, but guessed he might be. In any case, it didn’t take long until Mark Llinares from Jackson, was out of sight. My lack of recent training probably didn’t help, nor did being at 9,000’ for the first time since backcountry skiing in Lassen park last winter. But even though I had just been fully dropped, I was loving it! Being fully incapable of matching his pace, I just rode my own race to the finish savoring every moment. It’s hard to beat riding perfect singletrack that snakes endlessly through aspen groves and wildflower meadows. So thankful to have this time with such great people racing bikes in the mountains!!

Thanks #honeystinger, #carborocket, #kaliprotectives and #wolftoothcomponents for keeping me fueled, safe and shifting smoothly! Looking forward to Big Bear for the season finale (unless the smoke keeps me from riding leading up to it).”

Taking third place was, Michael Piker (Hoback Sports) at 6:37:24.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

: Pierre’s Hole Alta, WY

Full results click here

What’s Next? Click Here for info on the next NUE Marathon series race: NUE Marji Gesick race in Michigan. Click Here for info on the next NUE Epic series race: Shenandoah 100 in Virginia.

Follow the Pearl Izumi/Pivot Cycles team adventures as we travel and report on cycling around the globe.

Instagram: @pearlizumi_pivotmtb_team, @JenToops, @HanksJen, @graciedaze

NUE Pierre’s Hole 100 Mile

Posted on September 5, 2018 by Shannon Boffeli

Written by: @JenToops and Marlee Dixon @graciedaze

The next stop in the NUE series, Pierre’s Hole, is a rugged 32 mile single track loop that takes racers all over Grand Targhee Resort. If you’re able to look up out of the chest high wildflowers, the views down into the valley and of the Tetons at Pierre’s Hole 100 are breathtaking.At 7:00am on a beautiful cool morning, the 100 mile racers start their three lap race followed at 8:10am by the 100k racers and at 8:40am by the 50k racers. The race starts with a grueling 1700’ climb up the resort separating everyone for the 95% single track course. Once at the top, racers head down 38 special for a memorable descent with 38 switchbacks. Climbing back up the resort slopes again, riders enjoy an exhilarating high alpine descent down to aid 1 and back down to the resort base area.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

The next two loops are an undulating combination of meadows, forests, twisty and smooth single track that brings racers back to the start/finish for the end of lap 1.With temps in the low 70s, a race venue at Grand Targhee resort full of campers, hot showers, local beers, good food and kids activities as well an epic single track course; this is a race geared towards the avid mountain bike racers as well as the family-friendly and casual racers.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

Open Men

Lewis gets second NUE win of the season

1st-Bryan Lewis, 2nd-Sam Sweetser, 3rd-David Krimstock, 4th-Stefano Barberi

East coaster, Bryan Lewis (Cutaway USA), proved he could handle the elevation and took the top step in a time of 8:00:01.

“The Tetons have always been one of my favorite places to visit and I was excited to meet up with a couple friends from the area and take on the PH100. With 3 distance options to choose from the 100 mile field was a lot smaller than other NUEs. It’s as if others knew something I didn’t. The race started with a long climb that set up the lead group fairly quickly. On the first descent of the day Sam Sweetser set the pace and quickly separated he and I from the rest of the lead group. That set the tempo for the remainder of the ride as he continued to pull me around the single track.

Sam was super smooth and fast on the switchback heavy course and it was fun to follow him along. He was riding strong and when he made a minor mistake in a corner I made my way around him and tested his legs a bit separating from him around mile 60 and never (and by never I mean always) looking back. He kept the gap tight but I was able to hold on and really felt good on the final lap in Rick’s Basin and had fun ripping on it.

Overall, Pierre’s Hole was an amazing race under the view of the Tetons, which is hard to beat. I will say when I was finished I didn’t want to see another switchback for a few weeks, but that’s just me. Thanks Andy and the crew for building great trails and putting on a fun race!

Sponsors: Flying solo, but appreciate the support of my employer Cutaway, USA as well as a good group of friends (Will, Steven, Tyler, Seth, AT, and Carlo) that consistently talk smack and give me a hard time as I chase fun events across the country. Also big thanks good friend Jansen Gunderson who hosted and helped me with feeds during the race. Also I’m really glad my girlfriend didn’t shoot me for stealing her drink mix out of the cooler while she also cruised through 100 miles under the Tetons. :/ Lessons learned and thanks a great vacation Lauren!”

Twelve minutes back, Sam Sweetser (Cole Sport), takes second at 8:12:01.

David Krimstock (Shimano/Pearl Izumi/Pivot) rounded out the podium taking third at 8:19:47.

“Pierres Hole was the 4th 100 mile race in 5 weeks for me, and even though I have done this type of schedule before the added travel and fatigue left me with some unknowns. Riding sections of the course before the race had me looking forward to giving it my all on race day. This years course was unique with a small handful of dirt road miles, it seems to me that the PH100 has the most single track of any 100 mile race Im aware of. Between 38 Special, Action Jackson, and the winding up and down of Ricks Basin, I had a feeling my body was going to be completely thrashed by the end.The race started with a reasonable pace, and I played it safe. Letting Brian, Sam, and Stefano get ahead then reeling them back in by the top of the climb. Leading into the 38 Special descent Sam and Brian pushed the pace to get onto the trail first, and I settled in behind Stefano. Feeling decent, I went ahead of him during the climb out of the canyon and tried to keep the leaders in sight. I was about 2 minutes back for the rest of lap 1, and was continuously trying to pull them back. I held onto faith that my strategy of fueling with EFS Pro and Gel and using a Camelbak to be able to drink while on the trail would pay off as it often does. However, the gap continued to grow and I found myself riding in 3rd for the majority of the day. I had a blast ripping the endless trail with my Pivot 429SL and seeing all the other folks out on the laps having the same experience. Even though it may not have been my best day out there, its hard to forget a day spent in that unique terrain.”

Open Women

Conners gets fourth NUE win on Kenda Tires!

Women’s Open: 1st-Larissa Connors, 2nd-Kaitlyn Boyle, 3rd-Jennifer Wolfrom, 4th-Lauren Cantwell, 5th-Ivy Pedersen

Taking the win in the women’s open division, racing on Kenda Saber Pro tires, Larissa Connors (Sho-Air CG), finishes in a time of 8:58:17. With this win Connors has a perfect score of four and now leads the overall NUE race series.

“Pierre’s Hole was a last minute addition to my race schedule. I Choose to head up to Alta because I’ve never been to WY and heard so many good things about it! The idea of a three lap race was exciting, as was the promise we would be racing under the Tetons all day on SO MUCH SINGLETRACK!

I tried to start easy, since the altitude meant pacing was going to be crucial. That didn’t last long though and by the top of the first climb I had been lured into riding super hard, and decided to just run with it. The 38 special descent was crazy fun on lap 1, and the flowers and scenery distracted me from any thoughts of how long the race was, or how much I was going to blow up if I kept going so hard.

By lap 2 I had to slow down a bit. I realized when my wrists started hurting on lap 1 that if I didn’t actively choose to recover on the dh then I was going to be in a world of pain by lap 3, since you COULD pedal every inch of the course if you wanted.

A volunteer told me that 2nd place was only 5 min back at the start of lap 3, which freaked me out since I was chillin’ on lap2, so I laid down the gas again on lap 3. Surprisingly it felt good to dig deep, so I pushed hard, had fun cheering on the racers doing the shorter distances, and ate all the BonkBreaker snacks I had on me over the course of the last 32 miles.

Crossing the line a minute under 9 hours was freaking rad, and winning my 4th NUE of the year was the icing on the scenic race cake!!”

Kaitlyn Boyle (Pivot Cycles/Industry Nine) finished second in a time of 10:06:59. Crossing the line third was Jennifer Wolfrom (Hoback Sports) at 10:49:59.

Singlespeed

Fischer gets the Singlespeed win

Singlespeed 1st-Henry Fischer, 2nd-Brent Cannon, 3rd-Adam Smith, 4th-Adam Miller, 5th-Warner Smith

Getting his first NUE win of the season, Henry Fischer of Wila’s Wheels, won singlespeed with a time of 9:23:15. Brent Cannon (Team Elevate), took second in 9:36:58. In a sprint for third place, Adam Smith finished just seconds before Adam Miller in a time of 10:32:05.

Adam Miller states, “I am a mtb coach for our local NICA racing teams, Teton Valley Composite, and Jackson Hole Composite, so a shout out to them!!! The younger kids were supporting at aid stations All day! We had four of our athletes compete, and one of them podiumed in the 50K open!

I had only 2 rides over 4 hours prior to race, so the hundred miles was more of a challenge to say the least, and a good lesson of perseverance for our athletes’.

I chased another single-speed rider all day. He would DROP me on any hill handedly. I relied on my downhill skills any chance I could and would get him into view every once in a while. I got a glimpse of him in the last 10 miles, so I gave-er everything I had. He did too! I finally caught up with him about 100 yds from the finish. Sprint finish, and I won by .3 seconds!

Looking back, I would have geared my single-speed at 32/21 instead of my usual 32/20. By the third lap, I was having a real hard time getting the cranks over, and the racer in front of me with 32/22 was still spinning along…NEXT YEAR!”

Masters

Smith leads NUE masters series

Masters: 1st-Cary Smith, 2nd-Matt Woodruff, 3rd-Mike Baughman, 4th-Dave Reynolds, 5ht-Alan Miner

With wins at True Grit, Tatanka and High Cascades, Cary Smith (The Hub) can now add Pierre’s Hole to the list and finished in 9:02:12. He now leads the NUE masters race series with a perfect score of four.

About ten minutes back was, Matt Woodruff (Kuhl) taking second in a time of 9:11:56.

Mike Baughman (Lost River Cycling) took third in a time of 9:57:52.

Photo credit: Jay Goodrich / jay@jaygoodrich.com / @jaygoodrich

: Pierre’s Hole Alta, WY

Full results click here

What’s Next? Click Here for info on the next NUE Marathon series race: NUE Marji Gesick race in Michigan. Click Here for info on the next NUE Epic series race: Shenandoah 100 in Virginia.

Follow the Pearl Izumi/Pivot Cycles team adventures as we travel and report on cycling around the globe.

Instagram: @pearlizumi_pivotmtb_team, @JenToops, @HanksJen, @graciedaze

Pierre’s Hole 100-Mile

Posted on August 20, 2017 by Shannon Boffeli

The Pierre’s Hole 100

Presented by Hammer Nutrition

By Ryan O’Dell

Grand Targhee Resort has become a cool mountain destination resort for mountain bikers. This is the time of year when the wildflowers are in full bloom and waist high in many places along the single-track.

This year’s race was the largest turn out for Grand Targhee Resort with close to 400 athletes. The morning started at 7:00am for the 100 mile racers and progressed with a staggered start for 100km and 50km racers. The 100 mile race included NUE Epic Series points; the 100k was included in the NUE Marathon Race Series.

“This event continues to grow year after year. It is exciting to see the same racers, as well as new racers. The resort continues to add miles of single-track trails, which makes for a slightly different course each year.” Andy Williams, events manager for Grand Targhee Resort.

Many racers recalled 2016 when world road champion Peter Sagan, who had recently won the green sprinters jersey in the Tour de France, made an unexpected appearance, winning the 50k race and, to the delight of many, sticking around for photos and autographs following the awards presentation.

Jen Hanks gets a taste of the fine Grand Targhee singeltrack. Photo by: Michael Darter

Women’s Open

Carrington with a commanding win!

Liz Carrington, Honey Stinger/Bontrager, demonstrated her strength from start to finish winning the Pierre’s Hole 100 at 10:32:10.

Thirty-Seven minutes later, Julie Kelly, Specialized Canada/Infinit Nutrition Canada, was second at 11:09:19.

“My race started off well with good pacing on the first loop. When I came through the start/finish for the second loop, a bunch of people were calling out that I was second and only a few minutes off first. I tried not to get too focused on that as it was still early in the race. I saw Liz soon into the loop but she was setting a pretty fast pace and I lost sight of her.

I just tried to race my race and set a reasonable pace remembering the third loop last year really hurt! I finished off the second loop still feeling pretty good. The third loop still hurt but I managed to push the pace a little bit on the back end of the course to make the cut off for the buckle and take second.
I am not sure I will make it to any more of the NUE races this year but hope to get out to a few more next year.

Niki Milleson, Fitzgeralds bicycles, was third at 12:18:40.

Jeremiah Bishop focuses on a second Pierre’s Hole title. Photo by: Michael Darter

Men’s Open

Bishop gets second straight Peirre’s Hole 100 victory!

Jeremiah Bishop, Team Topeak Ergon, crushed it this year to finish 7:57:33, just under three minutes faster than last year’s blistering 8:00:22. Bishop, the 2011 and 2013 NUE Race Series Men’s Open Champion, is coming off his first big NUE win at the Mohican MTB100 in Ohio in June in pursuit of the 2017 NUE title. More recently, he also became the first American to podium at the Trans-Alps where his team finished third.

“With so much trail, it was a blast but it also hurt bad and punished the upper body as much as the legs. The Canyon lux was the weapon of choice. Bryan Dillon and I got off the front and gapped the field early. David Krimstock worked his way back to us at the end of lap one but flatted. We settled our race on the biggest climb up to tree line and I finally found a gap on Bryan. From there, was a lot of suffering and focus to wrap the last 20 solo miles up!”

Seven minutes later, team mate Bryan Dillon, Team Topeak/Ergon, took second at 8:04:16.

Nineteen minutes later, David Krimstock, Giant Co Factory off Road, was in for third place at 8:23:21.

“Being the third hundred mile race in a row, I wasn’t sure how my body would respond but the race was, unfortunately, somewhat defined by flats. I had a front flat while warming up, and changed to a spare wheel, which happened to be dry on sealant. During the first lap, I felt good and eventually moved my way through the front until I was riding with Bryan Dylan and Jeremiah Bishop. I rode with them for a bit and then passed them to try to get a gap before I went into the aid station to change to a wheel which had sealant.

During the second lap, I was staying between 1:30 and 3 minutes behind the leaders. Right after aid 2, as I was starting to reel them in and was feeling good, I slashed my rear sidewall. I put a tube in and carried on as a teammate, who had dropped from the race due to a torn tendon in his elbow, went off to grab my rear spare wheel. Sweetser had come into view and I was trying to put some time into him before I changed wheels again. On the third lap, the heat and a bit of a bad stomach caught up to me, and there were some pretty tough stretches, but I was able to carry on and secure third.
This was an amazing event, very well organized, great trails, and a unique course. There was hardly any chance for recovery, even on the downhills I was sprinting out of every corner, and there were a lot of corners! I was stoked with how I felt at the end of a long three weeks, but after Pierre’s, definitely starting to feel pretty worked. That said, can’t wait for the next NUE! The next NUE I’m planning on is the Big Bear Grizzly.”

Coming off his first big win at the NUE Breck 100 just one week ago, Sam Sweetser, Cole Sport, finished fourth, eleven minutes behind Krimstock, at 8:34:57.

Six minutes later, Jon Rose, 4Life / MadDog Cycles, was fifth at 8:40:59.

Rider on course. Photo by: Michael Darter

Singlespeed

Smith gets his second straight SS victory at Targhee!

Two-time Men’s Open winner of the Pierre’s Hole 100, 2013 and 2014, Cary Smith, The Hub Bikes, a local favorite from nearby Jackson, WY, demolished the field by over an hour to finish 8:52:48.

Ian Noak was next placing second at 9:58:36. “I raced in the SS category, running a 32×20.

Being from Boise, I am pretty used to getting a lot of elevation gain over shorter distances, so my climbing was my saving grace. However, being from Boise, I don’t get much time on snaking switchback descents, so it didn’t take long heading down 38 special before I lost sight of racers just in front of me, as well as people passing on the way down. Luckily I was able to bridge back up on the climbs.

As I try to do in all long races, my plan was to try and keep a steady pace that would hold strong until the end. Lap 1, I was able to do just that. I didn’t get into the chase early, starting in fourth and gaining one position during lap 1. Lap 2 was similar to lap 1. Keep the pedals moving and don’t blow up…….success. I had gained another position during the second lap, now in 2nd.

Lap 3 is where the fatigue really hit, not only the legs, but the upper body as well. I knew I was nowhere close to Cary, so the goal was to not lose second. I knew I didn’t have much of a lead and was moving pretty slow for the third lap, but was able to keep the pedals turning and minimize stopped time. The pain paid off, just as it always does. This was my first time racing Pierre’s Hole, loved it. I learned a lot about what it takes and hope to return next year smarter and stronger.”

Thirteen minutes later, Hunter Karnedy, Sublette Ravens, came in to take third at 10:11:52.

Masters 50+

Golet leads The NUE Race Series with win at Pierre’s Hole!

Greg Golet, Team Chico/Honey Stinger, coming off a big win at the Breck100 just one week earlier, dug deep to get the W at Pierre’s Hole finishing 9:28:25. Prior to this win, he also won the Pierre’s Hole Masters race in 2015. Coming into the PH100, Golet recorded wins at the NUE season opener, True Grit, with more recent wins this season at both the High Cascades 100 and Breck100. Earning his fourth win gives Golet a perfect score of four points and the lead in NUE Masters point race.

“After a rainy Breck100 I had to bleed my brakes, change the pads, and repack my hub bearings but by race day, a week later, my bike and I were ready to go again. I went out pretty hard on the first lap, and thought I established a pretty good lead, but really wasn’t sure.

I was feeling pretty comfortable on the trails but the repetitive accelerating out of the corners on the long decent down 38 Special wasn’t something I was used to and, on lap 2, it caused me to cramp and back off quite a bit, which worried me. And sure enough, not much later, I saw Jeff–pedaling out of the saddle with arms bent, hunched low over the bars–riding like a man on a mission…Yikes!

Meanwhile, I’m seated and spinning, just trying to keep some forward momentum. It was a pivotal moment about halfway through the race, and I knew I needed to ramp up my pace if I was going to keep the lead. Riding a rush of adrenaline, I accelerated into the gorgeous aspen grove before me, and tried to ride as fast and cleanly as I could through the winding singletrack. Amazingly, my legs started to feel better and, by the end of the second lap, I was able to gain back a bit of the time I had lost.

On lap 3, I didn’t see Jeff when I looked behind me across the open switchback section above tree line. Not long after, I decided I had better stop looking over my shoulder. Doing so felt self-defeating, and anyway, I needed to focus on my own riding. I worked on being smooth and not making mistakes, and stole moments when I could to gaze upon the unbelievable scenery that surrounded me.

It was an intense experience, and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to do the race. Grand Targhee has incredible trails, and the coolest low-key vibe. Having my wife and three boys there with me made it extra special. Four wins in four races feels pretty good but, most likely, I will have to win one more at Big Bear to take the title. Looking forward to giving it my all!”

Just over five minutes later, defending NUE Masters Champion, Jeff Clayton, Georgia Neurosurgical Institute, took second at 9:33:58. In a tight race for the title that mirrors the 2016 season, Clayton has wins at Cohutta, Mohican, and Lumberjack in the Midwest where he has dominated. Clayton remains just one win away from a perfect score which would set up a repeat of the championship showdown, this year, at Big Bear. In 2016, it was Clayton who won the tie breaking race to take the Masters title.

After suffering hypothermia and a bruised ego a week before at the Breckenridge 100, I came to Grand Targhee rested and eager to race. I pre-rode much of the course, but not the big climb or descent, choosing to save my legs. Most of the trails were well ridden, and reminded me of a big cross country course…flowing, undulating singletrack.

Since the race started with a long dirt road climb, I knew I’d have to be patient and pace myself. It was hard to watch a couple of my master’s category competitions ride away so early, as well as a good chunk of the field, but that’s what I did. Once at the top, the long downhill switchbacks were a blast. I held my own and started passing racers along the national forest trail back to the paved road back to the ski area.

Passing by my wife at the camping area, she gave me a gap to the two master’s racers ahead….not too far behind Greg and close to second. I pushed up the pace and by the end of lap two had passed Sten and was within three minutes of Greg. Lap 3 was tough! I had really pushed my limits already, and knew Greg was close. I finally got him in sight about halfway up the long climb….unfortunately, he also saw me!

When I passed my wife again at the campground, she gave me a lot of encouragement again and let me know it was still three minutes. I had been fighting off cramps and huge fatigue and knew I needed to back off a bit to make it to the finish still some 15 miles distant. My hope was that Greg was suffering even more. Alas, it was not to be and, even with a last ditch effort the last thirty minutes, I rolled in about five minutes back. It was a great battle nonetheless, and I enjoyed the beautiful day and fun course….it’s been great to experience some of the western NUE races!”

Brian Brothers took third at 10:57:05

CLICK HERE FOR FULL RESULTS

What’s NEXT?!

The NUE Race Series heads east to New Hampshire for the Crotched Mountain 100, formerly known as the Hampshire 100, on Saturday, August 19. Visit www.nuemtb.com for more information and stay tuned her for the latest news, photos and results.

Pierre’s Hole 100 Mile – Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming

Posted on August 10, 2016 by Shannon Boffeli

Jeremiah Bishop Returns with a Win and Christy Olsen Closes in on the Overall Lead

By Ryan O’Dell

With lift service and high end rentals available for both XC and DH riding along miles of pristine singletrack, Grand Targhee Resort has become a cool mountain destination resort for mountain bikers. This is the time of year when the wildflowers are in full bloom and waist high in many places along the singletrack. Timely rains a night earlier made the course conditions more tacky and ideal for racers.

The Eighth Annual Pierre’s Hole 100 has been adding new singletrack each year featuring long, fun descents showcasing jaw dropping views of the Tetons and surrounding mountains. This year’s race included a 100 mile race, 50 mile and a one lap 50k race.

World road race champion and Tour De France green jersey winner Peter Sagan blazed through the 50k course in just over two hours. Photo by: Cody Downard Photography

A highlight of this year’s race for many was racing alongside world road champion Peter Sagan who recently won the green sprinters jersey in the Tour de France. Sagan won the 50k race setting a blistering pace and, to the delight of many, stuck around for photos and autographs following the awards presentation.

The first NUE Marathon Racer to cross the finish line on a rigid singlespeed at NUE Marathon Series races this season wins a Lauf TR29 or TRBoost fork. James Dwyer, Green Mountain Sports Velo, earned this special award.

The next day, a dedication ceremony was held for the new AJ Trail in nearby Victor. City councilman and NUE SS contender, AJ Linnell, before his untimely death, led a vision for an urban trail that would lead out of Victor to nearby BLM lands. Last year, more than 130 volunteers picked up AJ’s mantle, constructing 700 vertical feet of trail on private property located at the edge of town connecting Victor to nearby BLM lands. The goal is to construct at least 12-13 miles of trail on BLM lands.

Carla Williams gets going early at the top of 38 Special. Photo by: Jakes Hawkes

Women’s Open

Olsen gets her second straight win at PH100!

Four years ago, Christy Olsen, Fat Fish Racing, attempted her first 100 mile race at Pierre’s Hole describing her effort as “failed miserably”. This year, Olsen finished 9:41:34 in her second straight win at Grand Targhee.

“The Pierre’s Hole 100 race this year went really well. I was coming off of a really bad race at Tatanka so I was quite nervous about how it was going to go. The course was spectacular. It’s a challenging beginning to a race with a tough climb right out of the chute, but you are rewarded with 38 of the ‘most fun you will have on a bike’ switchbacks.

At the start, Carla Williams charged up to the top with a lot of power. I could not hold her wheel, but luckily I was able to slowly catch her on the descent and ride with her for most of the first lap. She really pushed me to my limits that whole lap. I enjoyed the new AJ Linnel trail. That was a great addition to the race. The next two laps were spent just trying to ride smart, smooth and stay on top of my hydration and nutrition because I knew Carla was right on my heels. The weather was superb, so staying hydrated was manageable. The course was well marked and the trails were fun and flowy, so that helped keep me going mentally because it was fun. I had great support at the aid stations so I didn’t have to stop for more than a few seconds each time which helped me keep the lead and boost my confidence for the next section of the race. I felt strong all the way to the finish line, which is all you can ask for in a grueling 100 mile race. Thanks goes out to my Casper support crew, Pierre’s Hole race organizers, and Crazy Pedaler Bicycles-Casper,WY!”

Thirteen minutes later, Carla Williams, Joe’s Bike Shop, took second at 9:54:54. Williams leads the NUE Series with three wins including Cohutta, Tatanka, and most recently, The Wilderness 101.

“I think Pierre’s Hole was the hardest and most beautiful NUE race I’ve done so far this season. It is a course of wildflowers and switchbacks, beautiful mountain views and there were still patches of snow on the course. The course is almost all single track and all of it rideable without any hiking sections.

Looking at results from last year, I knew Christy was going to set a super-fast pace. I had a good start, but even up the first climb, I was breathing way harder than I was used to. I kept pace with Christy for most of the first lap but she got a gap before aid two, and I stopped to refill my camel pack knowing most likely I wasn’t going to be able to catch her again.

After the 1st lap, it was constant battle with my lungs and legs. I was breathing so hard on the climbs, my legs were getting more and more tired, and overall I felt pretty bad. It was my first time racing at altitude so didn’t really know what to expect going in. Very happy just to finish this race! Shenandoah is next on the schedule for me.”

Ivy Pederson, Team Rockford, placed third at 10:58:44. “Pierre’s Hole was a great event. The trails at Targhee are SO FUN! Everything flows well, the climbs aren’t too steep, and the views of the Tetons and the valley are amazing. The volunteers on course and at the aid-stations were very organized and super helpful. The other racers were awesome too. People leaving after finishing their 50k/100k races even stopped to cheer me on when I needed it the most – at hour nine while I was riding up the road in the pouring rain (thanks Bowman Family!).

I rode alone for most of the day, quite happy to just focus on maintaining a consistent pace and ride my own race. I accomplished my goals for the race which were: don’t break my bike, don’t break myself, and have fun riding all day.”

Taylor Lideen leads the chase group. Photo by: Cody Downard Photography

Men’s Open

Two-Time NUE Champ, Bishop wins!

Jeremiah Bishop, Team Topeak Ergon, crushed it this year to finish 8:00:22! Bishop was the 2011 and 2013 NUE Series Champion, now focused on competing in World Cup and other large events around the world. Leading for the entire race, a crash on the final descent threatened to derail what had been, so far, a perfect race.

“Pierre’s Hole 100 was the most single track I have ever done in a race. After coming back from Trans Alp and training up for Leadville, I knew this would be a good race for the rocky mountain guys who shred single track. I had an absolute blast dropping in on 38 special’s 38 banked turns! There were only three sustained climbs so that’s where I worked to gain my gap. Knowing anything can and will happen in a backcountry race like this, my goal was to keep steady pressure on from the gun and it worked.

Jeremiah Bishop powers away from the field at Pierre’s Hole. Photo by: Cody Downard Photography

I got the buffer I needed to win despite a terrifying side wall cut that was one inch long! Racing to bring back seconds, I slid out on the ‘not packed edge’ of one of the new trails and sampled the local dirt. Indeed, it was a nice vintage. I can’t wait to come back to the Tetons for more amazing single track adventures!”

Taylor Lideen, Pivot Cycles, coming off his first victory at the Big Bear Grizzly 100, went on to finish second at 8:15:40.

Exactly one minute later, 2015 race winner, Josh Tostado, Santa Cruz/Swiftwick, finished third at 8:16:40. Tostado also finished fifth this year at the True Grit Epic and third at the Tatanka.

“I was very happy with my race, got to the front with Taylor, Jamie and Jeremiah. We rode the first half of the first lap together then Jeremiah gapped the three of us. We worked as a trio until the middle of the second lap when Jamie dropped off. Taylor and I rode the rest of the race together and we were able to work well together. In the last ten minutes of the race, Taylor was able to get a small gap on me and couldn’t keep pace with him at the end. I had a great time ripping around a super fun course with Taylor all day, great race!”

Fourteen minutes later, Sam Sweetser, Cole Sport, claimed the fourth spot at 8:30:02. Thirteen minutes later, Gabe Klamer, Fitzgeralds Bicycles, took fifth to finish 8:43:04.

Singlespeed

Smith wins on an SS!

Two-time Men’s Open winner of the Pierre’s Hole 100, 2013 and 2014, Cary Smith, The Hub Bikes, is a local favorite from nearby Jackson, WY. For the first time, Smith attempted the race on a single speed with surprising results. Smith took it to the competition, including last year’s race winner, getting his third win at Pierre’s Hole in 8:28:23.

Last year’s race winner, Corey Larrabee, Kuhl clothing, was next placing second at 8:59:27 on 32×20 gearing. “The single speed field was very stacked this year, with Carey Smith deciding to race single speed I knew that beating him would be a challenge. From the start, I never was able to ride with Carey. I went back and forth with Kip and a couple of other single speed riders through the Peaked climb but, once we hit 38 special, there was just Carey and Shaffer up ahead.

I pushed up the road and was able to catch Shaffer on the road. Carey, on the other hand, started fast and continued to put time on me with every pedal stroke. At the start of the second lap I could see Carey up ahead but wasn’t feeling super great and, by the end of that lap, he had an even bigger time gap. I rode the rest of the race trying to stay motivated and, whenever I would see another geared racer up ahead, do my best to use them as bait. I was happy to hold onto second place with some severe leg cramping going into the final lap. Thanks to my amazing sponsors KUHL clothing, ESI grips, Carbo Rocket, Wolf Tooth Components, and my pit crew of my five kids and wife Amber.”

Twenty minutes later, Mark Schafer, Team Eastside Cycles, took third at 9:18:51. “Pierre’s Hole was my final race of the season and I was coming off a very successful third place finish at High Cascade 100. This race was definitely in my head. I raced it the last two years and both years I was left a broken man. Noting how stacked the SS field was, my only goal was to get the belt buckle which slipped through my fingers in 2015.” Pierre’s Hole buckles were awarded to all men who finished under 10:15 and to all women who finished under 11:15.

“This year I decided to go with 32×20 in hopes to make the climb up the Peak Trail more bearable. On the first climb I hung back with my friend Matt Woodruff, who I could trust to set a perfect pace. We lost track of Cary Smith right away as he crushed up the climb.

We had a blast ripping down 38 Special, Mill Creek, and Cold Springs. As we spun up Ski Hill Road, we got passed by one of Matt’s Kuhl teammates on a single-speed. I ask Matt “Is that Corey?” and his response was “Yeah, he is AJ fast”. Noted… I will not be chasing him either, I needed to survive lap three.

I finished lap one after having a blast on Perma-grin (such a great trail!) and started into lap two just enjoying Action Jackson when I noticed Trevor Rockwell was gaining on me. Trevor put a hurt on me going up the Peak Trail but I was able to catch him again before More Cowbells on Lap two. At this point in the race, I was feeling really strong; belt buckle was in sight, so I decided to see if I could hold off Trevor and fellow teammate Adam Karch who was nipping at my heels all day.

I kept a steady pace the rest of race while enjoying the amazing views of the Tetons and some of the best single-track around. I came across the line thirty minutes ahead of what I thought my finish time would be and, not only did I get the buckle, but got the honor to stand on the podium with two of the strongest Single-speeders in the nation. Super Stoked! Thanks to (Race Director) Andy Williams and the Grand Targhee crew for putting on an amazing event. See you in 2017.”

Adam Karch, Eastside Cycles, placed fourth at 9:30:55. Six minutes later, Kip Biese, KJBike Coaching, was next for fifth place at 9:36:32. Biese holds the distinction of finishing the most NUE races this season. Pierre’s Hole marked his ninth straight finish including four second place finishes!

Masters 50+

Gardiner wins the Masters race!

Following a second place finish to Greg Golet in 2015, 53 year old Gary Gardiner, Bountiful bicycle P/B Mountain America Credit Union, from Centerville, UT achieved victory this year with a winning time of 9:48:39.

Four minutes later, Sten Hertsens, Muleterro, was next to finish second at 9:42:52, his best finish of the season following a fifth place finish at True Grit Epic, third at the Mohican MTB100, and fourth at High Cascades 100. “The course was is great shape and the rain helped to make it even better.

I had a good start and I think I was in first (Masters) after the first climb. I had a surprise when I came upon a tree that was laying across the course on the 38 special descent but it was gone the next lap. On the descent, Brian Brothers caught me and we rode together for the rest of lap one. I was feeling good at this time and thought I’d ride with him.

At the start of lap two, I went ahead of Brian and, I guess, he decided to let me go. I had a gap at the top of the second climb and was thinking I’d see Brian on the descent, as he seemed to be faster on the downhill sections. I didn’t see him and, later, found out he flatted on the downhill.

I came upon Carla Williams and we rode together for some time. On lap two, at aid station two, I refilled my pack bladder and had my crank bolt tightened. It was making a noise and needed to be checked and it was a good thing I did since it was loose. I was still feeling ok at this point.

On the third lap climb, I thought I may have seen Gary Gardiner and felt like he may be close behind. At the bottom of the last descent I felt a little sluggish then, on the last road section of the day, I turned and looked back to see Gary Gardiner coming up behind me. I tried to hang with him after he passed but couldn’t. Later, I did some refueling and started to feel better. Carla Williams and I came back together and rode the rest of lap three.

The rain and wind started, but didn’t affect my race. I seemed to feel better on the last section of lap three and finished feeling good with my race. All in all, I didn’t have any mental, physical or mechanical issues that really affected my results and I’m happy with the end result. It was a great course that was well organized and had some great volunteers to boot. No volunteers, no race. This was my fourth NUE race and I will be going to Fool’s Gold to finish the season. It’s been a good first year of NUE racing and hope to finish well at Fool’s Gold. Keep the rubber side down and keep hammering. Peace”

John Lauk, Boutiful Bicycle Racing, finished third at 10:17:26. Twenty-seven seconds later, Brian Brothers, Hammer Nutrition, took fourth at 10:17:53, following his first ever NUE win at Tatanka.

What’s NEXT?!

The NUE Race Series heads east to New Hampshire for the Hampshire 100 on Sunday, August 21. Visit www.nuemtb.com for more information and stay tuned her for the latest news, photos and results.

Click Here for Full Results from all Categories

: World road race champion and Tour De France green jersey winner Peter Sagan blazed through the 50k course in just over two hours. Photo by: Cody Downard Photography