Based in Colorado, the summer Grand Traverse is a 2-day ultra extravaganza across some of the most impressive mountains in the USA. This race provides participants the chance to compete in both a run and a bike ride from Crested Butte to Aspen (and vice versa, depending on whether you’re running or biking).
Whilst completing one of these alone is a huge achievement in itself, some of those competing have already conquered the time-honored ski version of the race earlier in the year. By completing all races this time around, they will claim the coveted Triple Crown glory title (read our write up to find out more about this!).
Returning to take on the bike race this year is #TeamMontane athlete Jessica Yeaton. Keep scrolling to find out why and what she loves about this beautiful yet challenging race through the heart of the Rocky mountains…
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am a Physical Therapist and multi-sport athlete living in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. My background is in cross-country skiing; I spent most of my 20s racing internationally on the World Cup and competed in the last two winter Olympics. Since transitioning to my professional career as a physio, I have shifted gears towards longer, more adventure style races. I compete in 50-100+ mile mountain bike races, and have my sights set on some even longer ones. During the winter, I continue to compete in cross-country skiing and started racing skimo last year as well (competed in the Grand Traverse ski race and absolutely LOVED it!). I also love trail running, gravel biking, and open-water swimming in the summer.
What’s the appeal of the Grand Traverse?
The Grand Traverse is one of my favorite races- both in the summer and winter! I love this race because it is challenging in so many different ways- technical terrain, lots of elevation gain/loss, and high altitude; it definitely the hardest 42 miles I've ever done. The course has absolutely breathtaking views that make the grueling climb up the pass totally worth it. The descent down Star Pass is really fun to ride down, which is the cherry on top.
How have you approached this year's race?
My approach this year is to enjoy the race, and to take a moment to enjoy the views along the way! Its great having another year of experience under my belt leading into this year's race. I learn something new each year that I can bring with me to the start line the following year. Having done some longer races over the past couple weeks (Leadville 100 and Steamboat Gravel, which is 125 miles), I feel ready for the duration. My goal is to go out hard and settle in on the climb- and to fuel well along the way! I think its easy to blow up on this course because of the altitude, so its important to ride at a pace you can maintain. There is only one aid station up on the pass, so bringing enough food/drink is super important too. I try to stick to a fueling plan even if I don't feel great- and always make sure to eat something before the technical descent!
Best cycling advice you’ve ever received?
"Look where you want to go and not at what you want to avoid!". I find this super helpful when riding a new technical feature - it often helps me have a breakthrough when I can't ride something. Also, if you feel like you're not having a great day on the bike technically, maybe its a sign to call it and ride something easier! If I feel off, that's when I often find myself crashing, so its better to just come back another day.
Do you have a favourite piece of Montane gear?
The Fireball Lite jacket is definitely my favourite piece of Montane gear! I love it because it works for all my winter activities- its breathable so I can cross-country ski in it, and great as a layer when back-country skiing. The Stretch Thermo grid panels allow for ease of movement when cross-country skiing, and it is lightweight for throwing in my backpack when in the backcountry. Its rare that I don't have this jacket on me in the winter, and I even wear it for colder cycling days in the fall!
Keep up with the Grand Traverse Action
The GT returns on 31st August this year. Head over to our official event hub to find out more.
