We’ve been doing this dance at Mt. Holiday for thirteen years now, but it just doesn’t get old. Mud, Sweat, and Beers started in 2010 as a fundraiser for Mt. Holiday, and in that time has raised $650k for the coolest nonprofit ski area in the region. (Can’t make the race but want to support Mt. Holiday? Donate here.)
The race has produced some incredible racing over the years, with NMMBA cooking up perhaps the best version of the race yet. It’s the perfect mix of northern Michigan singletrack and open passing zones, with a plunge down a ski hill to a mud-soaked finish line. You just can’t beat this celebration of the return of mountain bikes and community in May.
You’re likely wondering who is toeing the line this year. We were too. Here’s a quick look at who is going to give it hell on Saturday in the Elite categories.
Women’s Elite
It’s a seriously tight field for the Elite women. GLORI’s Emma Schwab has to be the overall favorite, with a super strong spring training program wrapping up after spending time training in Brevard, North Carolina. She also debuted at the US Cup at Vail Lake, providing some top-level racing to bring back to her home race.
Emma won’t have it all her own way, however. Abigail Jean, from Suttons Bay, will push Emma to her limits; Portage’s Katie Giffing certainly won’t be content driving Up North without a podium spot, either.
This truly is a wide-open field, with Hamilton’s Jen Jones, West Olive’s Jill Landman, and TC’s own Gwen Urbain also going to be exceptionally competitive.
Be sure to give Charlotte Wright-Rosinski from Highland an extra cheer on Saturday. At just 15 years old, she’s the youngest rider in the field and a sure bet to have a stellar race.
Men’s Elite
If you thought the women’s field was crazy competitive, just wait until you take a peek at the men’s field. Kolo tc’s own Josh Concannon will lead the line for the Blue Crew. Josh has worked his tail off all winter, so expect a big ride from kolo’s diesel engine.
Garrett Jenema and Kyan Olshove, racing for GLORI, are the hometown favorites. Like Emma, they’ve been training and racing in warmer climates all winter, making us wonder just how impressive of a show these guys will hope to put on this Saturday.
But the locals will have their hands full from the down-staters. Tyler Weston, Hunter Post, Barry Dykstra, and Michigan cycling legend Earl Hillaker are all names that stand out as riders to circle for big rides.
As always, there are far too many fast riders to name all the ones with a hand outstretched for the MSB mugs this weekend.
You can look to see if your favorite riders is registered here.
Be sure to head out to Mt. Holiday this Saturday to join the party. Racing starts at 9 and the beer starts flowing shortly after. Hope to see you there!