Animal

Yes, I think my husband is an animal. On Saturday Brian completed the first annual 'Crusher in the Tushar' race down in Beaver Utah. Those of you who know him know that he has raced bicycles since he was 9 years old. Through years of school, mission, and marriage this has not changed. Sure he took a year off here and there, but when I get to see the intensity of the course he rides it honestly blows my mind. In this particular race they climbed a total of 10,400 vertical feet, and descended 6,000 feet (this being the alternative route due to too much snow). Yes literally going up and over a mountain. Since the best description I could give doesn't say it all here it is officially from the web site.

The route starts on pavement and heads East on Beaver Canyon Road (State Road 153) which features a gentle climb and runs parallel to the ambling Beaver River. At mile 10, the real climbing begins as the course reaches the Upper Telluride Power Plant where the road switchbacks and climbs aggressively to the first of four generously-stocked aid stations at mile 17.5.

After refueling, riders will get their first taste of dirt as the route turns on to the scenic Big John Flat Road. This stretch of fire road will deliver riders to the Realcyclist.com King and Queen of the Mountain line situated at mile 24 atop Utah’s highest road at an elevation just shy of 11,500 feet! That shortness of breath you’re feeling isn’t just the thin air but likely the breathtaking 360° views—even the most competitive riders may find themselves lingering here to take in sights and catch their breath. Look closely enough and you just might be able to pick out the herd of elusive Mountain Goats who call this starkly beautiful area above tree line home.

Adrenaline junkies will revel in the next 18 miles as they descend the dirt on North Beaver Creek Road winding around the base of the majestic 12,000 foot Mt. Belknap, past the historic 1890′s Gold Rush ghost town of Kimberly, and into the town of Marysvale where the course rejoins pavement. Here, riders can quench their thirst and address any mechanical issues at the event’s second aid station before they head off on Utah Scenic Byway US-89 as it rolls for 14.5 miles alongside the Sevier River, a designated Blue Ribbon Fishery.

Upon reaching the historic township of Junction, the Paiute County Seat, riders can utilize the third and penultimate aid station to top-off their reserves before the climbing resumes once again and the pavement turns back to dirt at mile 60. Be sure to look over your shoulder now and again to take in the exhilarating views below of the Paiute Valley, although appreciating the scenery might be a bit tough as this is where most riders will truly enter the “pain cave” as they tackle the steep grades on graveled road. Tough it out for 6.5 miles to the fourth and final feed zone at Bentenson Flat, and you’re back into the cool air of high altitude. The ubiquitous aspen trees and glimmering Puffer Lake signal the push to where dirt turns back to pavement for the final time at mile 74.

Just five excruciating miles now separate riders from the finish line at the uppermost lift of Utah’s newest ski resort, Eagle Point. Here, riders will have to dig deep as they climb another 1000 feet back up to an altitude of 10,300 feet. After crossing the finish line, participants will be treated to a post-race lunch courtesy of the great folks at Eagle Point Resort. Congratulations my friend, you’ve done it! And yes, we know what you’re thinking: “Where do I sign up for next year?” Not to worry, we’ve got you covered.

And is Brian signing up for next year? You bet he is. Despite the fact that he got two flat tires, he still took 3rd in his age group (out of 60) with a time of 5:28:33. And this is fun?! It would have taken me at least four days to get to the top of the mountain let alone finish the race. Bri likes this thing called the 'Pain Cave.' He's good at pushing himself and how he finds the mental and physical strength is beyond me. I'm so proud of him and his talents. Now is spending every Saturday sitting in the heat and dirt great fun for the girls and I? Not always, but watching your husband do something he excels at and loves is such a rewarding feeling. So what next on the race schedule? Oh just the Snowbasin 100k, Park City Point to Point (78 miles and over 14,000 vertical feet), and Lotoja (206 miles). No big deal right?

I wish I had some great action shots, but the only time I saw Bri was the start and finish.

Climbing the last hill to the finish line. Bri's on the left.

Way to go team Kuhl.
What is this you ask? That is a good question. It's Gilly. Not entirely sure what he/it is, but Gilly rode the course on a scooter and was handing out money to racers and cheering them on. I think Bri randomly got $3. Don't ask, all I know is that he scares the crap out of little kids and hands out money at races. Only in mountain biking.