Did my first bikepacking "race" this past weekend in West Virginia. I wasn't there to really race anybody, just wanted to get the whole grand depart experience and be out there with a bunch of other people.
The weather was a little tough, stayed dry but pretty cold at times. I guess it was really just a gravel race because at some point I scrapped my plans to make it a two day effort and just rode the whole thing in a single push, with help from some friends I met out there (shot out Eric and Reid if you guys are on here). The three of us rode together on and off throughout the day, then did the last 20 mile push and final climb together. It would've been pretty rough to do that alone in the dark after such a long day.
The route was pretty brutal but obviously gorgeous, love WV. There was also a 265, and 470 mile route. Some of those folks are still out there, on day four now with some nasty weather approaching, truly badass. Hoping they all stay safe and finish strong.
Finally, a huge thank you to race organizer David Landis, Mountaineer Gravel, and the whole crew of volunteers and media team, including the folks from Visit Mountaineer Country. You guys are all awesome, all of your hard work is super appreciated!
Link to route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50000087
by corncobby_bobby