For many riders and racers in the Midwest, Iceman is the last race of the season. Training is planned for this one race in (sometimes) questionable Michigan fall weather. I like to prepare for this big event not only with structured training, but also in participating in two races earlier in the season to see where I’m at with my fitness.
One of these races is Ore2Shore in Negaunee, MI. The Ore2Shore Hardrock is a 48 Mile Point to Point race from Negaunee, MI (where Iron Ore was first discovered) to the shoreline of Lake Superior in Marquette, MI. It is a similar format as Iceman, with some added technical sections aka “The Powerlines”. This race is fast from the start and leads through the beautiful scenery of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I’ll be heading back this year with the goal to improve my last year’s finish time of 3:13:34.
Peak2Peak is another great “warmup” race for Iceman. It usually takes place at the 3rd weekend of October at Crystal Mountain, MI. The course is a 12 mile loop with a mix of two-track, singletrack and a fun downhill to the finish. 2022 was my first year racing Peak2Peak and I was able to finish on the top step of the podium for the Women’s Sport cat. I’m excited to race three laps on this fun course this year.
Thank you to our 2023 Iceman Ambassador Nina Waschenfelder @ninasmtblife