We spent the weekend in Talkeetna for the 7th annual Trio Fatbike World Championships. I’m not sure why it’s called the Trio, but I’m going to say it refers to fast, friendly, and fun! Unlike during the Susitna 100 race, this time I wasn’t concerned about getting a fast time — I was more interested in having a good time in the backwoods of Talkeetna. I got to hang out on the 21-mile trail, and enjoy the spirit of trail camaraderie! I swore off racing after the Susitna 100, but I had already paid and registered for the short version of the Trio. So I raced without trying to go too fast. This was not a problem, as the first 12 miles were a mix of biking and walking. I think I was on my bike 50% of the time due to soft, squishy snow from higher than normal temps. It sure was nice not to carry that emergency gear the Susitna 100 requires. I arrived to the trail party nicknamed “Shangri-La” about 3 hours into the event. I spent about an hour enjoying the sweet bonfire, and the company of beer-loving cyclists. I avoided the whisky and drank an Anchorage Brewing Rondy Brew, and then refilled my 16 oz water bottle from the keg of Denali Brewing’s pilsner, which was very refreshing during the last 9 miles. The second half of the trail was a dream! I felt like I was riding on clouds all the way back to Talkeetna on a hard-packed trail. Hard to imagine, but the temps hovered around the high 30s all day! I love that ridge-line trail, and if I lived in Talkeetna I would make it my regular ride.
The afterparty was a blast as usual. This year Denali Brewing brewed a Brut IPA for the official Trio race beer. After the awards ceremony the Last Train (featuring Ted Rosenzweig of Turnagain Brewing on base) rocked the party and I danced until my rubbery legs had to stroll on home! Overall this is a quality event and I would encourage anybody who likes group riding, with a bit of a racing edge, to sign up next year. Good job everybody who went and participated! A huge thanks to Greg Matyas, from Speedway Cycles (home of the Fatback), Shawn Thelan from North Shore Cyclery in Talkeetna, and Sassan from Denali Brewing for the immaculate trail grooming and great hosting of this super fun event!!!
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