Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/1524446
Flashback! August 2024 5 Here we are deep into the summer riding season with a number of events behind us and many more to go be- fore they pull the plug on '24. Highlights of July were the AHRMA Northeast's State Line Challenge held in Pownal, Vermont. Having ridden this property less than a year ago at the 50 th ISDT Reunion Ride, I was anxious to get back for some more of that sweet Vermont tacky soil. As you'll read deeper in this issue, the event was a huge hit, and the a er feast something only foodies dream of. Huge thanks to all involved, despite the oppressive heat, all who a ended had a fantas c me. Others on our crew had been wai ng with bated breath for the annual Northeast 24-Hour Challenge. Unfortunately, and due to Sprinter van issues, your editor Kurt was not able to make it but thankfully our friends Jim Bird, Rich Albert, and pro photographer Tiffany Merri were able to cover and capture the moment at one of the most unique and grueling events of the year. No ques on the NE24 is tough. What I've enjoyed about the NE24 is the level of camaraderie at this event. Pros interact with Novices as all are well aware of the fact that the NE24 isn't won in one lap. With 1000 riders entered, It's about planning, strategy, bike maintenance, and understanding team rider's strengths and weaknesses. Let's face it, some people can see well in the dark and others not so much. Given the fact that the NE24 runs right through the night, proper ligh ng is a must. Reading terrain in the dark can be an art form as objects can appear larger with ruts, holes, and eleva on changes equally more challenging in the dark- ness. Huge respect for all those who raced and equally for all the others who assisted in making this year's NE24 the success it was. I'd like to also give props to Brain Dussault, his father Dave and their friends and family, for pu ng to- gether a strategy that once again dominated the Ironman class at this year's NE24. This was the second year the Dussaults raced Ironman and in fact, Brian swore he'd never do it again a er winning last year. His weapon of choice was once again a Beta 390 Race Edi on. Brian likes the smooth power delivery and how the 390 is easy on fuel. The Dussaults spent a couple of months planning and prepping for this year's event. Between tes ng the dura on of ba ery run mes to spreadsheets for calorie consump- on, they went over anything and everything that they could improve upon from their experiences last year. Brian states "I came into this year's event much fi er than the previous as I realized it would only help". And his efforts paid off with another Ironman Class win. In total, Dussault completed 32 laps on the 12-mile course and 384 miles ridden over an elapsed me of 22hrs and 17min. This is what it takes to be crowned 1st Ironman and Over All Northeast 24hr Champion! Huge respect Brian and team! On the horizon we're looking forward to the 25th Anniversary of the ever popular Hancock Quarry Run, commonly known as the most challenging dual sport on the planet. With two days and approximately 250 miles of the sweetest upstate New York terrain imaginable, we're chomping at the bit for this one and you can be sure to read all about it in the September issue of Trail Rider! Another topic we're happy to share is our friend, ISDE compe tor, and all-around off-road badass, Rachel Gu sh has offered to write a monthly column tled Stories of Six Days. Rachel plans to interview ISDT/E vets and document their experiences. As we all know, the stories are endless and we're excited that Rachel is planning to document these incredible tales. Check out her first installment deeper in this issue, with a few words from a chance encounter with Jeffrey Kirchner who rode Finland in '96 and Australia in '98. Hope you enjoy!