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Suzuki 24 Hours of Moab Race

Aaron Walton of Ridemonkey.com

When I received an invite to cover the 24 hours of Moab this year, I immediately and enthusiastically accepted the offer. I did the race in 2001 and it still stands out in my mind as the best MTB event I have ever participated in. It's definitely not the sand-ridden course that makes it the best, nor the grueling round-the-clock race schedule, nor the often winter-like weather conditions that prey on Moab this time of year. Actually it's the combination of these seemingly not-so-fun factors, combined with an excellent race/camping venue that hosts thousands of people in a party like atmosphere, and a dedicated and friendly race staff that set this event apart in the MTB world.

The 24 Hours of Moab is a race that riders of all abilities go to challenge themselves to the extremes of their endurance and tolerance to lack of sleep and challenging weather conditions. The event draws everyone from weathered pros like Chris Eatough and the original energizer bunny Tinker Juarez, to a team comprised of actual, for-real Navy Seals, to recreational riders who have never done a race before at all, much less a 24 hour race. What all these people have in common at this event is that everyone has a great time and leaves with a sense of accomplishment that lasts for years.

This year's event will be remembered for the wind. Wind-advisory strength winds created a sand storm the morning of the race that few will forget. Tents and awnings were destroyed, cameras were filled with sand, as were ears, eyes, and every other bodily orifice exposed to the elements. Wind turned to freezing cold the night of the race and teams were challenged to extremes as they battled fatigue and the elements to complete yet another lap. Difficult conditions did not dampen spirits however. To the contrary, the more difficult the conditions, the more heightened the sense of accomplishment and euphoria the racers felt at being done with a lap.

Ultimately most teams were able to finish the event and go home with memories that will endure for years. I didn't race, but I still had a fantastic time observing this event. The camp that pops up in the desert for a few days around the event hosts thousands of the friendliest MTB enthusiasts you will ever meet. This is an event that anyone that loves mountain biking needs to try at least once. I left the event resolved to come back next year - with a team and a well-executed race plan. Or at least a plan to get a few laps done, and enjoy a few well-deserved beers in the process. Ride on!

Please check out my 2008 24 Hours of Moab photo gallery at Ridemonkey.com:

Photo Gallery and Blog.

Start of the race: bikes lined up ready to go.