As the dust settles on another incredible Iceman Cometh Challenge, I’m still riding the high of what was truly an unforgettable day. The weather couldn’t have been more ideal, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish. This race isn’t just an event—it’s the Super Bowl for so many of us in the mountain biking community, and this year, it lived up to every expectation.
The Race: Wave 15 and My Trusty Fat Bike
Starting out in Wave 15 with my fat bike was an absolute blast. The trail conditions were perfect for fat tire riding, with a course that leaned heavily toward mountain bike-friendly terrain rather than wide-open stretches. This made for an exhilarating ride that kept things dynamic and engaging. Despite some reports of congestion in other waves, I found the flow of riders around me to be just right.
The bike itself? Flawless. Fat bikes truly shine in a race like this, and mine was no exception. Every hill, every twist, every climb—it handled it all like a champ. A big part of my success this year was finally dialing in my nutrition, which kept me cramp-free (a huge win) and steady, even during the most challenging parts of the course.
The Energy: Hills, Cheers, and the Pro Exchange From Doug
The energy on the hills, especially the infamous Iceman Climb, was something out of a dream. The crowd was nothing short of electric, cheering everyone on with a level of enthusiasm that could fuel a whole race on its own. A special shoutout to my buddy Doug, who executed a textbook bottle exchange at Williamsburg Road. The announcer even called it a “pro-like exchange”—kudos to him for running support like a champ.
Not everyone was a fan of the course changes this year, but I thought the mix of terrain was a nice touch. The trail added a fresh dynamic to the ride and kept things interesting. Even though I didn’t have the energy to push as hard as I usually do at the finish, I was thrilled with my performance, placing ninth overall in the 39-and-under fat bike category.
The Community: Friends, Family, and the Afterparty
One of the best parts of Iceman is the community that comes together for this race. From seeing friends on the trail to the post-race festivities, the camaraderie is unmatched. The beer was cold, the vibes were high, and the conversations were flowing. Watching Joslyn race without training wheels for the first time was a highlight, and the guys in costumes cheering for the kids made the event even more special. It’s those small touches—like chanting kids’ names as they rode by—that make this race so unique.
Gratitude: To the Volunteers, Staff, and Sponsors
This race would not be possible without the incredible team of staff and volunteers. Your hard work and dedication make the Iceman Cometh Challenge what it is—a day we look forward to all year. To the sponsors, thank you for supporting this event and our community. And to my family, thank you for your endless support. None of this would be possible without you.
Looking Ahead: Winter Riding and 2025 Goals
As the 2024 season comes to a close, I’m already looking forward to getting back out on my fat bike this winter. If you haven’t tried riding in the snow, let me tell you—you’re missing out. Fat bikes are a game-changer for winter riding, and if you don’t own one, go rent one and join the fun. There’s nothing like hitting the trails in the crisp winter air to keep your skills sharp and your spirits high.
To everyone who raced, cheered, or supported this year: amazing job. I hope this race inspired you to push beyond your comfort zone and embrace the incredible world of mountain biking. Here’s to 2025 and all the adventures it holds.
Signing off as your Iceman ambassador,
Casey Smith
The Tractor Guy, The Mountain Bike Guy, The Auto Guy—Just Casey
P.S. Keep riding, stay inspired, and never stop chasing the thrill. See you on the trails!
A HUGE thank you to Casey Smith @casey_thetractorguy for being our 2024 Iceman Ambassador.