Here at MarathonMTB.com we have a bit of 24 hour pedigree amongst our team. Not only was Ed McDonald 2016 Australian 24hr Solo champion, our XCO/XCM/Stage racer Imogen Smith has raced a 24hr solo, and many team events. And Mike Blewitt has also done plenty of 24hr team events with podium finishes.
Did you catch Gordon W. Wadsworth’s Old Pueblo coverage?
But it’s Ed who has the best experience, so we asked him to put his best tips and strategies down for anyone about to line up at 24hr race – on their own or in a team.
Ed McDonald has powered through 100milers and 24hr solo events for as long as we can remember.
“My best advice for those about to head into a 24 hour race – irrespective of whether in a team or solo – would be to leave the stress behind, and immerse into it. Yes it’s hard at times, can be unhygienic, and the witching hours of the night can be awful.”
The LeMans style start make for an interesting spectacle – on course at Old Pueblo.
“It’s completely mad in its own way, but in the madness, lies the beauty – still pinning lines after hours on the bike, the pleasure of delirium, and the intense joy of a morning coffee.”
Ed out at dawn, and crushing it. Photo: Outerimage