Hello to all my fellow riders! I can’t believe it’s already September, and we’re starting to get emails from Iceman about things to watch out for. Waves should be out within the next few weeks. If you don’t get the wave you want, don’t worry. They’re pretty fair about moving riders into better waves if your results support it.
It’s easy to focus solely on Iceman training and bike setup, but one thing I believe is just as important is the mental side of racing. Breaking Iceman into segments can help manage the ride to Timber Ridge and even save a race. I average around 22 races a year, and the biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: keeping your head in a good mental space can make or break your ride.
Iceman Week: The Countdown Begins
The week of Iceman often feels like the week of Christmas, with excited anticipation building every day. But this is also when overthinking can creep in. Have confidence in your training and stick with what you know. If you’ve never tried something before, save it for next year.
Take advantage of the many pre-ride videos on YouTube in October. Even if you don’t ride the course beforehand, watching those videos will help you mentally prepare. Visit your mechanic and double-check your chain, brakes, sealant, and tires. Know what nutrition you’ll use and have enough packed. And, of course, keep an eye on the weather. The start line will be cold, but it feels very different once your heart rate is up in the woods. Pack several kit options and don’t overdress; being too warm at the start can spell disaster later.
Ready to Roll: Iceman Eve 2025
Picture this: it’s the day before Iceman. The time has come. All your hard work is behind you, and what’s done is done. What do you do when there are still hours to go before the race, but you can’t seem to sit still? Personally, I get to the expo early, it’s the one time my wife lets me buy whatever bike gear I want! The line can be long, but the volunteers keep things moving smoothly. The expo is one of my favorite parts of the weekend: Bells beer, race plate pickup, and browsing new gear.
After that, I recommend pre-riding the finish. The course video won’t show it because it’s not set up until a few days before the race, but knowing how that last corner flows can be the difference between a PR and going over the bars. Parking at Timber Ridge requires a pass, but there’s plenty of parking nearby if you plan.
When you’re done, it’s time to fuel the body with water, food, and rest. I follow Alexey Vermeulen’s simple recipe of eggs and white rice the night before. For me, this year will be different with my daughter and in-laws along, and I convinced my father-in-law to try the Slush Cup. Before bed, I lay out my kit, prep my bottles, and set everything so race morning is as stress-free as possible.
Into the Woods: Race Day, Let’s Go!
Race day nerves are real, but so is the energy. Thousands of riders gather at a small northern Michigan airport, and the atmosphere is electric. Warm up, breathe, and keep your head clear. Remember: you can’t win Iceman in the first five minutes, but you can ruin your race there.
Know the sandy spots and your lines. Draft if needed to stay out of trouble. If you get passed, don’t let it bother you. I race the Clydesdale division, and I’m used to it. Instead of frustration, I turn it into an opportunity: I hop on a wheel, draft, and reset my pace. Often, you’ll pass some of those riders later when they’ve burned out. Race smart.
And then there are the climbs. For me, nothing is tougher than the VASA CC climb. It’s at that point where the mental game kicks in hardest. Break the course into smaller chunks, make it to Supply Road, then Woodchip Hill, then Icebreaker. After that, you know the hardest climbing is behind you. These small goals keep your head sharp and prevent you from getting overwhelmed.
When the pain sets in, I remind myself how lucky I am to be out there, riding through the woods, racing bikes, and sharing the trail with thousands who love this sport. Thinking of my wife and daughter waiting at the finish line gives me a push no energy gel ever could.
Final Thoughts
Fitness matters. Gear matters. But your mindset may be your greatest asset. The more years I line up at Iceman, the more I realize that mental toughness, staying positive, breaking challenges into manageable pieces, and appreciating the moment, is what gets you through the tough miles and lets you enjoy the ride.
See you in the woods!
Thank you to Chris Mutnansky @the_racing_ref for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer.