Race Across Duluth 2023 - Mountain Biking the Duluth Traverse

This was the inaugural running of the Race Across Duluth. The race follows the Duluth Traverse trail across the entire city for a total of about 45 miles. We started at the bottom of the Lester River Trail at the Lester River Park, did a quick two mile loop on the ski trails and headed up and across the city.
The initial push up and out of Lester Park is not too tough but Hawk Ridge might slow you down a little once you get up to the top. The trails are mainly green but there are some little bit more challenging sections along the way. I was doing great until about 20 miles out or so when I started getting some leg cramps. Kind of unusual for me but, it is what it is.
The race was started as a mass start and the first loop allowed everyone to separate out nicely. I wasn't running this is a race but more of just a ride to do the Traverse and as a fund raiser for COGGS, the local bike club who does a huge amount of work for the local trails. The ride started at 9:00am and you had to be off the trail by 6:00pm. I finished up about 4:30pm as I head to walk out some cramps way too often after the 30 mile mark.
The participants ran the full range of people from serious racers to older riders like myself and even a few fat bikes.
There were brats, beer, ice cream, and a host of other goodies at the finish line followed by an after-party at Ursa Minor Brewing. I do believe a good time was had by all and cheers to COGGS to putting on a great event with three nice supports stops along the way!
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#halffasthugo
#duluth #mountainbiking #ibiscycles #mtb #minnesota #fatbike

[@Boilitinoildoyle]

If you’re racing it timed, is your race time total time from start to finish or just moving time?

[@halffasthugo]

It is chip timed and I believe it is start to finish and not just moving time. Do a search for the 2024 race as their web page is up. Thanks for watching!

[@Boilitinoildoyle]

Dang, hard to believe the fastest did it in almost 3 hours

[@halffasthugo]

@@Boilitinoildoyle right?!? Some of the younger ones were hauling a$$ down the trail. I was happy just to finish as I know some people bailed!