Tour of the White Mountains

SHOW LOW, ARIZ.- There was plenty of pain and pleasure on hand at this year's Tour of the White Mountains.

With over 750 mountain bikers taking to the pine and juniper covered trails that make up the White Mountain Trail System, there was plenty of amusement and suffering to be had by all.

First up were the 60-milers taking off at 7:30 a.m. sharp. While much of the terrain of the trail system is gradual, there are epic climbs and technical sections that will put most riders to the test.

"It's a tough 60, but it'll leave a smile on your face," Michael Melley of Tempe, Ariz. said.

An hour after the first group came the 35-milers. They too were in for a challenge, but not quite the same leg-cramping experience of the 60-milers.

"The rocks kept you honest, you couldn't just ride, you had to pay attention," Steve Holmes of Phoenix said. Finally, for those not wanting to the full monty, the 15 mile race took riders along the great views of the Panorama Trail. Also on tap was a 10 mile fun ride that kept to dirt roads and jeep trails. All in all it meant that there was something on tap for everyone, from die-hard racers to mom and the kids.

Typical of any Epic Rides event that you attend was a fun atmosphere and chill vibe. At the finish line, racers and spectators socialized while waiting for others to finish the race. Funky music blasted from the speakers, kids pedaled around on bikes, the legendary Blue Banjo BBQ served up their wicked tri-tip sandwich and New Belgium Brewery poured adult beverages.

Top male finishers in the 35-mile race were Bryce Phinney in the Open category with a time of 2:51:02, Chris Grove in the Master's category with a time of 2:51:22, and Jason Downing in the Singlespeed category with 2:59:21.

Top female finishers in the 35-mile racer were Kata Skaggs in the Open category with a time of 3:06:22, Robin Hoff in the Master's category with a time of 3:38:36, and Tina Ooley in the singlespeed category clocking in at 3:52:20.

In the men's 60-mile race Santiago Chavez raced a 4:28:28 in the Open category, Art Macfarland crossed the finish line in 4:55:19 in the Master's category and Michale Melley won for his second consecutive year in the Singlespeed category with a time of 4:38:06.

The women's 60-mile race saw Beth Utley clock a time of 5:25:43 in the Open category, Beverly Rogers crossed the line at 6:43:52. Unfortunately, there were no female singlespeed finishers this year.

For a complete list of results go to the Results Page

To see more photos from the event check out Brian Leddy Photography