Surprise! You're Racing the Leadville 100 in 14 Days!

I have a confession to make: I've been mountain biking for 12 years, and have been riding fairly seriously for the past 5. I currently ride 4-6 days a week but despite all this riding, I have never done a 100-mile ride. A century ride is a big milestone for any rider and I'm long overdue to complete this goal.

14 days before the Leadville 100, one of the toughest races in the country, I got a call from the "Leadvillians." "Hey man, we have an extra spot this year if you want in!" Of course, I can't pass up an opportunity like that! Although I was totally unprepared, I accepted without thinking twice.

All of my training this year has been focused on XC Nationals in West Virginia. My training rides were focused on two-hour hard efforts and intervals rather than long, extended rides. I had no idea what to expect and was worried that a ride of that length was going to destroy me. I didn't know how to handle nutrition or how hard to push myself (or not push myself). 103 miles is hard. Add 12,000+ feet of elevation gain and it gets harder. Don't forget that the race takes place at 10,000 to 13,000ft. where there is 40% less oxygen than at sea level. I think I'm in for one heck of a day.

I invite you to watch the video above and check out what the Leadville 100 is all about. Can I finish 103 miles with 12,000+ feet of vert with no long distance training?

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[Crashy]

Great Video, I loved your attitude and positive words throughout the race. Thanking the Volunteer is classy!

[deniseblalock]

You are so Humble, yet BAD AZZ to the BONE. Working on my 9th Hotter Hell Hundred (100 road) in Wichita Falls Texas and I support my son in this difficult race. Mountain biking 100 is hard core.

[bradyessary]

For not thinking you were ready, you sure passed a lot of riders like they were sitting still!

[ridesantacruzbikes]

This video was my introduction to Colton. Not only does he crush on a bike, but he also seems like a good human. I found this the most entertaining vlog I'd seen of Leadville. I'm a new fan. Keep up the great work.

[JUSTTOTHEN]

Wow! Great job!! I just completed the Silver Rush 50 MTB and got a entry coin for the Leadville 100 MTB and am registered for 2020!

[cervelospeed]

Great video. Love the positive attitude and encouragement.
Didn’t like how easy you made it look passing me up Columbine!😀

[MrMcDaver]

Awesome video! Thanks for sharing that. I agree with the previous persons comment, very positive attitude and very encouraging to the other racers and volunteers. Good example for all of us to follow.

[alsayers]

I watch a lot of cycling vlogs and this was outstanding. Very nice.

[earthquakemagoon]

Great job!! would love to do this race! Your commentary while riding is excellent!

[pachakutik]

I like your race attitude! I have my first Leadville this August, woo hoo!

[shanelaird]

Great video and you’re an awesome ambassador for cycling!!!

[brianbartels]

Great video, great attitude. It makes the day so much more enjoyable to be around cheerful riders. Are you doing Leadville again in 2018?

[perserventia]

nice work. i have begun my own cycling videos in preparation for my first century next year maybe kanza... at 57:)

[stanmancam]

Nice ride man would love to see the garmin details. All the best from Sydney Australia

[georgesolomon]

Great job and video!! Not ready??? Did not seem like it..LOL My lungs would have been wrapped around my top tube

[slaglema]

Great video, production quality couldn't have been better. There is a Village Racing team in Grand Rapids Michigan with a very similar kit, are you affiliated with that team? Surprised that you didn't eat that much for the distance and kj you did.

[patriotfirst]

Man I love the attitude your definitely a class act, very fun to watch just sub ya.

[skipvendola]

Just got into the 2019 race and have been doing my homework, by far your video was the best (most informative and amusing) my dilemma, tires. I'm riding and epic hardtail with Maxxis Aspens 2.25 f/r, would you keep the Ardent/Icon combo or change it? what sizes are best from your experience thanks!!

[saprissa]

Hi, with how many miles in the year you think you went into the race?

[VictorBeltran]

Next year do the Shenandoah Mountain 100!