Dust of the Snowshoes!

It's that time of year again! With a fresh 6 inches of snow over the weekend we have seen the official arrival of Winter....and that means snowshoeing! It's funny. Before I started snowshoeing I really didn't get it. I understood what snowshoes were and how they worked but I never really grasped the adventure that snowshoeing opens you up to.

The biggest thing with snowshoeing is the places it allows you to go. With a decent snowfall you can simply strap on the shoes and take off through the woods. No trail needed. The design of current snowshoes has come a long way from wood "tennis rackets" strapped to your feet. They're light weight, durable, and can climb and descend steep snow covered slopes with ease. They make experiencing snow a whole different ballgame!

If you haven't tried snowshoeing I recommend getting out and giving it a go. There a plenty of shops that sell, and rent, snowshoes in Big Bear and plenty of places to put them to use. I'm going to dust of my snowshoes and keep my fingers crossed for more snow! See you out there.


Some Links to Get you Started!

 

  (The Premier Snowshoe Event in Southern California)

 (Snowshoe Outfitter/Rentals)

Soloing in Big Bear Lake

There is a point when you are still standing on the ground where you ask the question one more time. "Can I do this?" After that soloing is all about instinct. Soloing involves climbing routes without the use of any protection to prevent falling to the ground. It's serious business, but when done within your limits and under control it is the most rewarding experience I've found. Talk about living in the moment...when you are 30 plus feet off the ground with nothing but air under your feet you are thinking of nothing else!

One of the greatest parts about the climbing in Big Bear Lake is the abundance of solo-able rock. The experienced climber will find an abundance of routes from 5.0 - 5.5 in difficulty on all different varietys of rock, generally between 25-50 feet but sometimes much higher making for a great foray into the unroped world. While I wouldn't encourage inexperience climbers to push themselves too hard in this endevor we've all felt the urge to scramble to the top of a rock or peer over the edge of a cliff. It's all about pushing your mental limits.

Check out this video of a fun route in the John Bull Area of Big Bear. Stay safe and see you out there!

2012 Conquer the Bear is Official!

Check out the latest Press Release from Open Air Big Bear regarding the 2012 Conquer the Bear Schedule of Events. Looks like it's going to be a great series of races next year....can't wait for the road bike! 

(2011 Conquer the Bear Podium)

OPEN AIR BIG BEAR ANNOUNCES 2012 CONQUER THE BEAR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

MultiSport Challenge Adds Road Bike Event and “Masters” Competition

Big Bear Lake, California – November 11, 2011 – Open Air Big Bear presented by FRS Healthy Energy is back with the 2012 Conquer the Bear, Conquer the Cub, and the all new Conquer the Grizzly multisport challenges in Big Bear Lake, California. The series will test athletes on four different disciplines throughout the year – snowshoeing, paddling, cycling, and trail running.

The events include:

● Snowshoe the Bear on February 25 – a snowshoe race of 5K for Conquer the Cub and 10K for Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Grizzly;

● Big Bear PaddleFest on July 8 – paddle races of 5K for Conquer the Cub and 20K for Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Grizzly;

● Tour de Big Bear on August 4 – NEW bike road races for Conquer the Cub, Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Grizzly;

● Endure the Bear on September 8 – a trail run race of 5K for Conquer the Cub and 30K for Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Grizzly

The series offers athletes numerous chances at cash and prizes including $1000 grand prize split between the Conquer the Bear men’s and women’s overall winners, and the individual FRS King of the Mountain awards giving participants the opportunity to win $50 cash at each race. Individual events in the series offer cash prizes to the top finishers, age group awards and additional prizes from sponsors including FRS Healthy Energy, Big Bear Vacations, Cliff Bar, The North Face, and Smith Optics. 

The 2012 series will include the debut of the Tour de Big Bear Road Race as well as the introduction of Conquer the Grizzly, a master’s category for competitors 50 years and older.  Conquer the Grizzly participants will complete the same courses as the Conquer the Bear competitors but are eligible for different awards.

These four premier events from Open Air Big Bear highlight what the mountain community of Big Bear Lake has to offer – a diverse, high altitude outdoor sports playground catering to weekend warriors and professional athletes alike.

For more information on Conquer the Bear, Conquer the Cub, or Conquer the Grizzly, including a complete schedule of event, registration details, contest information and more, visit www.openairbigbear.com.

Tour of Cali is Back!

Thirteen Host Cities announced for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California and Big Bear Lake is BACK in the mix! Just official today, Big Bear will again be the Stage 6 Finish on Friday May 18, 2012. While the route is yet to be finalized you can be sure the ride into Big Bear is going to be a tough one! Check out this video about the different host cities...Big Bear is around the 4 minute mark. Awesome news!

Big Bear "Off-Season" Training

 (The Ultimate Multisport Series!)

It doesn't stop. Which is a good thing. It's been a month since the conclusion of the 2011 Conquer the Bear here in Big Bear and while it's nice to have completed the multisport series it's left me itching for more. I was fortunate enough to have a good year and finished 3rd Overall behind Ultra-Runner Jesse Haynes and local fitness guru Ted Devito which was awesome...but next year I'm going for the win!

It's going to be a tough Winter if I think a win at Snowshoe the Bear is possible but the tools are available to get the work done. My good friends at Mountain Fitness Center are bringing Crossfit to Big Bear this fall. If you aren't in the know, Crossfit is all the rage for testing, and building your fitness. It's a core strength conditioning program that is varied, interesting, and tons of fun.

The 2012 Conquer the Bear schedule of events has not been officially release as of yet but it's coming soon. Great news is that it included a division for folks 50+, Conquer the Grizzly, and Big Bear Lake's first road bike race! Stay tuned for more information and keep training!

Conquer the Bear 2011 Final Results HERE!

Big Bear Autumn Cycling!

This looks like a great little event from the Big Bear Cycling Association. I am a big fan of the climb up to Onyx summit and it will be interesting to see the times of some of the strong local guys.  Hopefully we'll have some nice weather as there has been a few glimpses of winter already and nobody likes riding bikes in the snow! In addition to the Alpe d'Onyx the BBCA is holding a few other events in their Fall Adventure Series including a ride to Pioneertown and a ride to the beach along the Santa Ana River Trail. Check out the details here and get in as much time in the saddle as you can before the snow comes. See you out there!

Big Bear Climbing Season!

This is the perfect time of year to climb in Big Bear Lake. The weather is pretty much perfect every day...sunny and 70's and the summer crowds have long left the valley, meaning we get the mountain to ourselves again until ski season! This has always been a bit of a surprise to me as I would argue this is the best time of the year in the mountains. Cool crisp mornings. Blue sky days. Mandatory hoodie in the evening. Awesome.

 

While I enjoy all different styles of rock climbing I am definitely into bouldering the most. Bouldering involves climbing rocks up to about 25 ft with no ropes for protection. Crash pads (3" thick foam mats) are used at the base of the climbs to help soften the landing when we fall. Climbing shoes that have sticky rubber soles help tremendously when climbing harder routes, but are not necessary to get started in the sport. For me the best part about bouldering, or climbing in general, is that it never really gets any easier/harder. It's all about pushing your own limits so as you get better you will find harder stuff to climb, making it a life long journey....there is no end.

Climbing in Big Bear is outstanding. It is really diverse meaning you can find bouldering, sport climbing, trad climbing, even some mountaineering all in the area. There are some amazing areas with a high concentration of quality rock and some lonesome boulders sitting all alone in the middle of the woods. Some of the areas have amazing views of the lake, other of the desert. Exploring the different areas is half the fun! If you are new to climbing Big Bear has some great areas with lots of beginner friendly climbs including the North Shore Bouldering Area and Castle Rock (sport/trad). If you're a seasoned vet head out to Holcomb Valley to find the most established routes (250+) in the area and some amazing highball bouldering. Free camping too! All in all Big Bear is a great place to climb and now is the perfect time to be out doing it...hope to see you out there!

For more information on bouldering in Big Bear Lake check out the Big Bear Bouldering Blog!

Polar/Conquer the Bear Directors Award!

Conquer the Bear symbolizes the very essence of the multisport and adventurous athlete. A challenge that begins in February, with a snowshoe race, resumes in June with high altitude mountain bike race, comes along in July with a grueling 20 km circumnavigation of Big Bear Lake on kayak, then resumes with the 30 km of Endure the Bear Trail run....this is no easy multisport challenge.

Polar, the world leader in Heart Rate Monitors is a new supporter of Open Air Big Bear, and is a perfect match for the athlete that is facing the the multiplicities of this year long challenge.

This year, the Polar /Conquer the Bear Director's Award goes to a male and female athlete that represents taking on the challenge with full heart and passion, to Conquer the Bear: Dave Lawrence and Cathleen Caulkins are this years winners....and take home beautiful monitors to help them prepare for 2012 challenges. Congrats!

 (Karen Lundgren, Dave Lawrence, Cathleen Caulkins, Paul Romero)

More information on Conquer the Bear HERE!

Conquer the Bear 2011 Recap

(2011 Conquer the Bear Podium)

The 2011 Conquer the Bear High Altitude Multisport Challenge is a wrap...and what a great challenge it was! For the details on Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Cub check THIS out. Here is how my series went...

(Start of the 2011 Snowshoe the Bear 10k)

Snowshoe the Bear - 10k Snowshoe Race - Trained hard all winter for this race while also rehabbing a bum knee. The knee got better by race day which was a great sign. With no snow on the ground the race ended up basically a 10k trail run. I managed to grab 3rd place, behind Ted Devito from Mountain Fitness Center and ultra runner Jesse Haynes.  Great race which is extremely different year to year based on the conditions. The year prior was the nastiest day of the year, dumping snow and rain. This year we ran on dirt. Great vibe in the village on a winter day.

 (Starting the uphill on 1E01 during Ride the Bear)

Ride the Bear - 27 Mile Mtn. Bike - Lots of mountain biking in preparation for this race including completing the 12 hours of Temecula solo race. I knew Jesse and Ted were faster than me so I really just wanted to try and do well and fend off any challengers behind me. This is the toughest event for me as I am not a very strong mountain biker but the course is super challenging and has some really fun downhill sections. I managed to hang onto third in the Series but dropped a good bit of time to 1st and 2nd place. This race is tough for part time mountain bikers but lots of fun!

 (Open Water during the 2011 Big Bear PaddleFest)

Big Bear PaddleFest - 20k Kayak Race - Thanks to my good friends at North Shore Trading Company I was paddling a 19' Seda Glider which is a sweet boat. I spent the two weeks prior paddling almost everyday trying to get used to the boat as its pretty narrow and not too easy to paddle. It's not hard, just takes some practice if you want to go fast. The race was great. I paddled hard for the first 5k and then settled into 2nd place about 100 yards behind Ted. I stayed here for most of the race and then suddenly with about 5k left I came around the corner and Ted was gone. Crossed the line in 2nd just a few minutes back and gained some more time on the rest of the competition. This was the first year PaddleFest was at Meadow Park on the South Shore of the Lake and it was an outstanding venue. Great day on the water!

(With Overall Series winner Ted Devito at the finish of Endure the Bear)

Endure the Bear - 30k Trail Run - This is the biggie of the series. There is no easy way to cover 18 miles on your feet, especially on this course. I wanted to do well but the bear got the better of me on this day. I ran hard for the first 20k and then slowly fell apart, dropping from 4th to 10th place in the race in a matter of 5k. I even got chicked maybe a mile or so left. In the end though my time was good enough for me to hold onto 3rd Overall in the Conquer the Bear series. And despite not having the best run of my life the event was such a blast I really couldn't be bummed. Perfect day for running in the mountains. Great vibe in the village and tons of community out to support. Awesome.


The Conquer the Bear Series is a great way to challenge and motivate yourself for a good portion of the year. I think it also opens you up to other disciplines, ones that you might not have tried yet. It has been an ever changing series through the years so I am really looking forward to the announcement of next year's challenge, which is rumored to include a road bike event!

Endure the Bear Race Recap

(The scene at Friday night registration)

Endure the Bear 2011 was an outstanding day of trail races in Big Bear. Here's how my day went. 

I woke at 4:30 to the sound of thunder but fortunately the rain held off and we had a perfect day for running. After watching the 50k start and getting a good warmup in it was time to go. I knew the 30k course well and also knew the guys that I was running with...and that they were fast. My goal was to push myself though and try to keep up.

The first 5k is straight up hill to the top of the ridge. It's tough. By the time I got to 2N10 I was in 4th place and could start to feel the beginning of what we become a downward spiral. The conditions were outstanding though and despite not running as well as I had hoped I was have a blast out there. The ridge line is always a tough run. There are some big hills to go up.

As I neared the turnoff onto Plantation I could still see 3rd place in front of me but that wouldn't last for long. Plantation is a great single track to run. It even has a big ol puddle right in the middle of it! This section was tons of fun and then it was back to the uphill. 2N17 is a brutal hill and it put a hurtin on me. As I got to the top I could hear the footsteps of 5th place behind me. I wasn't ready to give in yet though and though I'd make one last surge. I flew down Cabin 89. It hurt but it was so much fun. I love running down hill...up hill, not so much. I knew I was in for a hard time as I still had to go up 1E01 but though there was a chance I could maintain. It broke me. I got to the top in rough shape and soon after that was passed by a steady stream of guys...and one girl!

(Post Race I was a mess but still tons of fun!)

I managed to hobble across the finish line in 2 hours and 57 minutes which was good for 10th overall. My hips and knees were trashed but I'm going to chalk that up to post Ironman fatigue. The finish line was outstanding as was the race venue. Really the whole day was a blast. The course was well marked (partially by me!), the aid stations were great, volunteers were awesome, vibe was just right. Really was the best race of it's kind that I have participated in!

Masters Marathon World Champ Tony Torres absolutely crushed the course, and the rest of the field, clocking in at 2:14 for the demanding course. 2nd went to Jesse Haynes in 2:26 and 3rd to Ted Devito in 2:33. Wendy Marshall went 2:55 to win the Women's race and was followed by Kim Ammons in 3:05 and Robbin Conlon in 3:12. Complete results and photo links below.

Looking forward to next years race...might take on the 50k!

Results

Photos

Great video of the race and photos by Mountain Fitness Center Here!

VIP Runners for Endure the Bear!

Perhaps the most successful and charismatic ultra distance triathlete to walk the earth, Suzy Degazon will make an appearance and be lining up for the  Grizzly, the 50km of EtB (7 am start.). If you are lucky to get a glimpse of Suzy, you’ll catch her in Hammer kit and sporting Brooks, Fuel Belt, Polar and Rudy Project.

Mexican born, and Big Bear resident, World Masters Athletic Championship medalist Rosalva Bonilla is confirmed! Recently back from scoring amazing results at the blazing hot world championships in Sacramento, Rosalva will line up with the other dragsters to have a go at the 15km of EtB. 

There are more....Check out the rest of the VIP runners HERE!

(Endure the Bear 2010 runners enjoying the beautiful course)

Who will top Conquer the Bear?

The competition is tough...and the challenge is big. The 2011 Conquer the Bear Series will wrap up next weekend with the running of Endure the Bear Trail Run. After three awesome events it's still too close to call the lead for this years overall meaning there's lots on the line when the gun goes off next Saturday. I'll break down the top podium contenders and give you my thoughts on who's gonna win... Remember. Endure the Bear is a 30 kilometer trail run on a VERY challenging course at serious altitude. This is no joke. No time is safe here. Have a good day and you could make up some big time on the field...a bad day could spell disaster. Here we go!

Conquer the Bear - Men

Ted Devito - 5hr08min - I've been running with Ted and he's been on top of it. He's got the power to climb the hills and the speed to break away, plus he has the mental advantage of holding a sizable lead over the rest of  us. Being number one comes with pressure though...and thats not to be taken lightly. I think his game plan is going to be just to stay close to the rest of us, if somebody gets away from him his day could unravel.

Jesse Haynes - 5hr16min - Jesse has be killing it lately. I think he has raced 4 50k trail runs this year and either placed 2nd or won each of them. Being the "non-local" in the running I think he wants to come take the title off the mountain but not sure if he'll have the speed to make up 8 mins on Ted. I know he's gonna go for it though and expect hime to start fast and try to break the field early.

Matt Smith - 5hr32min - I'm a long way off the lead here but hopefully will be able to keep up with the two guys in front of me and stay on the overall podium. I know the course well and while I may not be able to make up much time I'd like to fight for the race win. I'm coming off a tough Ironman race though where my body took a decent beating. Recovery prior to this race will be key just to make the distance.

Ramon Escobar - 5hr59min - Ramon needs somebody to have a rough day if he wants to climb back up into the top three but in a race like this thats entirely possible. Not to mention this guy is extremely talented and has the balls to go for it. He's young though, and distance running is a tough game for the kiddies. I bet he stays consistent...goes out fast and fades hard.

How I see it playing out....I'm giving Jesse the race win. He's just been absolutley stellar in his recent race results and I think his need to make up time on Ted gives him the drive to finish first. But Ted's a fighter and I'm guessing he'll be within 5 minutes of the lead keeping the Overall Conquer the Bear Title with a "local." I'm going to push the first 5k and try to take home the FRS King of the Mountain and $50 in cash.

Conquer the Bear - Women

Heather Devito - 6hr04min - Heather is absolutely dominating the series, period. Not sure what else to say. She is fast. Maybe if she is nice she'll slow down a bit as to not make so many of the guys look bad. The real race is for 2nd/3rd place as Heather has this thing all but wrapped up.

Cathleen Calkins - 7hr18min - Cathleen has been super consistent all series and I don't see why this will be any different. She has a nice buffer on 3rd and 4th place but like I mentioned, it's a long race. She's an old pro when it comes to endurance but does she have the speed to hold off the charging girls behind her? This is going to be good to watch!

Rachael Ghrist - 7hr51min - (disclaimer: Rachael is my girlfriend!) Rachael wants 2nd place bad and has the speed to make up the time. She's been training on the course and knows when and where to go for it. She's in the same boat I am in. Having the big question of if she can fully recover from Ironman in time to dig deep and really go for it.

Angela Meyers - 8hr05min - Angela is competitive as hell and that plays a huge role when it comes down to a battle like this. I know she wants on that podium. The only question I have is if she enjoys trail running enough to really push hard out there. She has to run a solid race to climb back up to the top three and the ladies in front of her don't want to give an inch.

How I see it playing out....Heather walks away with the Race Win, Overall Series Win, and FRS King of the Mountain Award. Clean Sweep! and very impressive. In the battle for the podium I think Rachael puts down the hammer and makes up the time on Cathleen taking over 2nd. And while I'm going to give Angela a strong performance in the race I dont think it'll be enough to get back on the podium.

In the end though, this series only crowns 2 champions. One Man and One Women. They split the pot each taking home $500 in cash money. I'm giving the win to my good friends Ted and Heather Devito! Incredible athletes and great friends as well. It's fun to compete against people who push you to your limits and make you feel good about your effort...even if their's was much better!

Everybody who stepped up to take part in Conquer the Bear is a winner though as it's all fun and a great way to enjoy Big Bear...and life in general.  Check out the overall standings going into the last event and then sign up for next year!

Overall Standings

Endure the Bear on the Horizon!

Open Air Big Bear’s Conquer the Bear, and Conquer the Cub High Altitude Multisport Challenges presents participants with a yearlong race series covering multiple disciplines including snowshoeing, mountain biking, and kayaking. Since mid-February athletes have trained and prepared themselves for all the challenges, we now call 'Big Bear Mountain Skills'. It all started with the Snow Shoe race on a nice sunny winter day, moved onto the incredible trails for the Ride the Bear Mountain Bike, then the white sand beach and placid waters of Big Bear Lake for the PaddleFest Kayak race. Now, the ridges and single track just above the village of Big Bear will host hundreds of trail runners, for the Endure the Bear.

The series concludes with the Endure the Bear Trail Run challenging competitors to tackle a 4th discipline along with the difficult terrain and thin air found in the mountains surrounding Big Bear Lake. In just its second year, Endure the Bear is proving itself as a premier trail run of the western U.S., with events to suit the novice on up to the elite/ultra-adventurer.

The event starts and ends in The Village of Big Bear Lake where athletes can count on blazing sun, mild alpine temperatures and a resort with all the resources for a comfortable adventure getaway. Those participating in the Conquer the Bear series will be competing to split a $1000 cash prize as well as the FRS King of The Mountain Award worth $50 cash to the first Conquer the Bear, and Conquer the Cub Athletes each to reach the designated point on their respective course.

Race director Paul Romero is getting excited for the event and notes that “The real show down to watch is the Conquer the Bear challenge, these athletes that have tackled all the Open Air Big Bear events, in a challenge for accumulated time throughout the year. It all comes down to the run for the champion to be crowned, and race for the $1000 cash, winner takes all!”

Along with the Conquer the Bear athletes, Endure the Bear Trail Run offers something for everybody with a variety of race distances. The family fun run 5k presents the shortest challenge for participants while the 15k serves up a small taste of big mountain running. For the more experienced athletes the 30k provides a mix of long distance and stunning vistas and the 50k offers those prepared with an exciting ultra-endurance challenge.

Open Air Big Bear and sponsor Big Bear Vacations will also be teaming up to provide one lucky participant with free lodging for race weekend. Those athletes who are pre-registered for any of the trail run distances by September 2nd will be entered into a drawing to win 2 free nights lodging on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake. In addition, those athletes who are registered prior to September 1st will receive a free race shirt.

(Stunning Views await those brave enough to Endure the Bear)

 

Volunteers are also needed. Come get an inside view of the course and race activities. Cheer your friends and family from an aid station. Get involved, email karen@teamsole.com

For more information on Endure the Bear, Conquer the Bear or Conquer the Cub Race Series, including registration details or contest information visit http://www.openairbigbear.com/.

Tour De Big Bear Recap!

(Start of the 2011 Tour De Big Bear)

The 2011 Tour De Big Bear is officially in the books...and what a great day it was! To everybody's amazement the event was "sold out" two days prior with all 500 t-shirts, finishers medals, and goodie bags accounted for. That didn't stop an additional hundred plus folk from signing up for the ride despite not getting any of the swag that goes with it.

(Another AWESOME Open Air Big Bear Event!)

The TDBB had 3 different routes for folks to ride, 25, 50, and 70 miles. Each group was led out by our local celebrity Jordan Romero in his sweet FRS kit. Jordan also rode the entire 25 mile route and was the first one back by a good margin of time. This kid is an incredible athlete....look for him to do even BIGGER things than he's already done in the future. After Jordan got back the rest of the riders started to filter in and the one common thing between them all was the huge smiles to be seen. I was at the finish line all day and I could not believe the positive remarks coming in so steadily. Everybody had a blast! The only negative I heard was about the road conditions on one part of the course were a little less than disierable.

(First one back...local celeb Jordan Romero!)

The day finished up with a HUGE raffle where some folks went home with full on Big Bear getaways including lodging, gear, massages and food....awesome! Some sweet gear was given away as well and lot's of folks left extra happy! Great event in Big Bear Lake and a great addition to the Open Air Big Bear family of events. Looking forward to next years Tour De Big Bear!

(Showing of the hardware!)

Big Bear Bouldering is the Bomb!

So states this article in the Big Bear Grizzly (see full article here) by Kathy Portie about the bouldering in Big Bear Lake. The gist of the article is this. Big Bear Lake is a legit climbing destination. Yes, Joshua Tree is one of the BEST places to climb in the WORLD and it's only a little over an hour away...but it like 110 degrees out there right now! And while Big Bear might not play host to the quality or quantity of climbing you find in Josh, we've got it pretty good up here.

 (Bouldering up past Bluff Mesa with outstanding views)

I am a big fan of climbing up here. There is a ton of varitey and most of the spots are quite different in feel from one and other. That means lots of options depending on what you feel like doing for the day. Add to that the abundance of FREE camping and the great summer temps and whats not to love? What we are missing is a strong local climbing community. Big Bear is in need of a solid outdoor/climbing shop. I mean you can't even get chalk in this town! So while we have the potential to put Big Bear on the worlds climbing map...there is still a good bit of progress to be made. Get out there and check out some of the local climbing when you have a chance!

(Technical climbing at the Backside Bouldering area)

Tour Time

Next up on the calendar from Open Air Big Bear is the 2011 Tour de Big Bear high altitude training tour ride. Ride portions of the famed Stage #6 2010 AMGEN Tour of California route that international cycling announcer Phil Liggit called “one of the best cycling stages we’ve seen in America, ever!” In partnership with Open Air Big Bear and Big Bear Vacations, this years’ Tour de Big Bear will offer riders a chance to win free lodging for the weekend of the tour. Participants pre-registered for any of the stage tours by Friday July 29th will be entered into the drawing for a chance at winning the 2 nights stay, courtesy of Big Bear Vacations, for up to 4 people in a Big Bear Cabin on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake. Check out the CONTEST DETAILS! and then get out there and start training!

Tour de Big Bear

Saturday, August 6, 2011

“The Village” at Big Bear Lake

8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

•Discounted Lodging - Robinhood Resort – Host Hotel - In Village across the street from Big Bear Lake
•Friday PM cyclist check-in/late registration
•No Host Pasta Dinner at Nottingham’s Tavern
•Cyclist Goodie Bag
•Weekend Goldsprint Competition Qualifying Friday PM at Nottingham’s Tavern
•Saturday AM cyclist check-in/late registration
•Stage Start/Finish in “The Village” with restaurants, boutiques and shopping
•Detailed stage maps and turn-by-turns for each route
•Timed Event for individual training purposes only (all classes of riders welcome)
•Course Marshalls riding all stages
•Three Complete and Fully Staffed Aid Stations
•Two additional “Hydration Stations”
•Medical and Repair Vehicles on Route Patrol
•Photography by “Freeze Frame Foto” Tucson, Arizona
•High Quality “Technical T-shirt”
•Finishers Medal
•Cycling Expo – Vendors, Goldsprint Competition Qualifier, Famous Tour de Big Bear Raffle
•FREE Bike Valet Saturday afternoon - Park bikes and enjoy “The Village” and Cycling Expo
• Goldsprint Competition FINALS Saturday Night at Nottingham’s Tavern
•Discounted “Blues for the Zoo” concert tickets (Saturday PM) with each registration

PaddleFest Wrap-up

2011 Big Bear PaddleFest was an outstanding weekend of fun on the water capped off by a tough 20k kayak race around the lake.  I managed to finish 2nd Overall thanks to the Seda Glider that North Shore Trading Company hooked me up with for the race. That thing was fast! Ted Devito from Mountain Fitness Center was too fast for me though and managed to finish about 3 minutes in the lead. The new venue for PaddleFest was perfect. Great spot right on the water that's close to the center of town. And with Swim Beach being right there the crowd was huge.Next up in the Conquer the Bear series of races is the Endure the Bear 30K trail run. This is going to be a tough race as both the guys in front of me are very fast. Lots of time between now and then to get some practice in on the trails. Check out a couple pics from PaddleFest and start training for the run!

 (Pretty close race for the 1st 5k as leaders approach Standfield Cutoff)

 (Men's 20k Podium)

 (Taking a little one out on the SUP for the Kids Race)

(The Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Cup participants)

Conquer the Bear - Rd 3

 (The 19' Glider I'll be racing in thanks to North Shore Trading Company)

The past week has been a non-stop paddling clinic for me as I attempt to get ready for round number 3 of the Conquer the Bear challenge. If you are not familiar with Conquer the Bear check it out here. After the first 2 rounds I am sitting in 4th place overall, roughly 28 minutes behind 1st place. This weekend's PaddleFest is going to be interesting. The 20K kayak race is long....like really long. There could be some major shake-ups in the ranking after this event. I took a lap around the lake in preparation the other day and with a few stops it took me 4 hours. That is a long time to be in a kayak. Most of my training in the boat has been focused on paddling technique. Throw in a few trips down to China Island and back and after a week I feel much more confident for the race than I did the first day out. Now time to rest the arms and get ready for Sunday's race!

(Seda Kayak Swift's ready for action at PaddleFest)

FRS King of the Mountain!

OPEN AIR BIG BEAR ANNOUNCES FRS KING OF THE MOUNTAIN AWARD FOR CONQUER THE BEAR RACE SERIES

King of the Mountain Award worth $50 to Fastest Athletes

Open Air Big Bear and Conquer the Bear Presenting Sponsor FRS Healthy Energy are proud to announce the FRS King of The Mountain Award for the Conquer the Bear, and Conquer the Cub Race Series. The King of the Mountain Award, worth $50 cash will go to the first Conquer the Bear, and Conquer the Cub Athlete each to reach the designated point on their respective course.

The FRS King of the Mountain Award starts at the Big Bear PaddleFest, July 9 and 10, a festival of clinics and races on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake, which is also host to the third event in the series, either a 20k or 5k Kayak Race. Now in its 4th year running, Big Bear PaddleFest has become a World Paddle Association sanctioned race and is expected to draw athletes from all over Southern California looking for a picturesque race venue, or just a new challenge.

“We’re so excited to offer a WPA sanctioned race this year along with the FRS Challenge,” said Jim Dooley of North Shore Trading Company, sponsor of Big Bear PaddleFest. Added Janet Dooley, “I’m so impressed with the Conquer the Bear and Conquer the Cub athletes for what they’re doing – four major races, snowshoeing, mountain biking, paddling and trail running!”

Endure the Bear Trail Run, the fourth and final event of the 2011 Conquer the Bear Series, held in September, offers the next chance for athletes to compete for the additional $100 in Cash Prizes to be awarded at each event. Along with the FRS King of the Mountain Award, Conquer the Bear athletes are competing for a $1000 grand prize to be handed out at the finale of the series.

For more information the Conquer the Bear or Conquer the Cub Race Series, including registration details or contest information visit Open Air Big Bear.

 (Last year's overall female winner Kelly Brunson and her sweet winnings)

Get Your Paddle On!

 Bear PaddleFest is a festival of clinics, races and vendor expo for canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake, hosted by North Shore Trading Company.For two days in July, paddlers can test their stamina at 6700’, take beginner through advanced clinics, and learn about the latest in paddling gear from vendors and sponsors.Big Bear PaddleFest is a member of Open Air Big Bear and third in the Conquer the Bear/Conquer the Cub series of cross training races held throughout the year in Big Bear Valley.

 
The weekend event will offer pre-race-day activities on Saturday, July 9^th, including on-water clinics for beginner and advanced paddlers taught by local paddling instructors, boat and board demos with Seda and Necky kayaks and Hobie paddleboards, an outdoor-industry sports exhibit with Smith Optics, USARC, FRS, John Wayne Cancer Foundation, Clif Bar, Big Bear Vacations and more. 

The races, scheduled for Sunday, July 10^th, are open to all levels of paddlers. There will be 20K, 10K, and 5K canoe or kayak, tandem or solo races. The Kids’ Fun Paddle is free for 12-year olds and under. 

(Video by Scott Hoffman, website)

For more information Paddlefest or Conquer the Bear, including registration details, or contest information visit OpenAirBigBear.comwww.openairbigbear.com.

Seven Summits Hike #2 - Bertha Peak

  (Seven Summits group hike #2, Bertha Peak)

Today was hike #2 in the Seven Summits of Big Bear series of summer hikes which took us up the Cougar Crest trail to Bertha Peak. If you are not familiar with the Seven Summits of Big Bear check out here. Another great turnout and and even more beautiful day made the hike super enjoyable. In my opinion the Cougar Crest trail is the most enjoyable hike in the valley. It's short enough that even at a leisurely pace you finish the hike before lunch and offers some of the best views of Big Bear Lake to be found.

At the top of Cougar Crest you run into the PCT and from there a short and steep steep hike up an access road that leads to the summit at Bertha Peak.You could also head out the PCT to Canada if you had the time! Great views of the lake to the south and some outstanding views of the Holcomb Valley Pinnacles to the north as well. The Seven Summits of Big Bear hikes are a great way to get out and experience some of the best hiking in Big Bear (or anywhere!) with a great group of people no matter what your ability level is. Check out some pictures from the hike and come out to the next one... #3 Gold Mountain- Saturday, July 2nd at 8am.

(Outstanding views on the Cougar Crest Trail)

(Making the tough push towards the summit)

 (Punching the Seven Summits card)

 (Looking South from Bertha Peak)

(Looking North from Bertha Peak)

For more information on hiking, biking, running or ANYTHING OUTDOORS in Big Bear Lake check out Open Air Big Bear! 

See you out there!

Big Bear Shootout

Mountain bike season is in full swing and there is nowhere better to ride than up here in Big Bear Lake. Amazing single track descents and oxygen sucking climbs ensure a challenge for everybody. Still one big race left for the season. Ride the Bear is happening in two weeks and is sure to be a great day of mountain biking. Check out this video from the May race which is the same course as Ride the Bear...then sign up and start training!

Open Air Big Bear and Big Bear Vacations area also teaming up to give one lucky group FREE lodging for race weekend. Only thing you need to do to be entered in the drawing is to sign up for the race. Check out all the details HERE!

Fly Fishing on Big Bear Lake

One thing I've always wanted to do better is relax and enjoy my surroundings a big more. I sometimes get caught up in the adventure and excitement of pushing myself and forget to stop and smell the roses, or catch some fish. So in trying to steer myself towards a new direction, I've decided to take up fly fishing...

I got a killer deal on a basic setup from my good friends over at North Shore Trading Company. Mike Tuttle runs Big Bear Fishing Adventures, a full service guiding operation, out of the store and on top of hooking up the rod and reel he was kind enough to take me out for a lesson on how to get started. 

My setup is sweet. Pole is graphite and breaks down into 4 pieces all of which go into a bomb proof case. The reel has its own pouch. Just need some flys and a net, maybe some basic fishing tools, and I'm ready to rock. For the lesson Mike supplied me with some waders and showed me the basics of setting up  the line. After that we were in the water and learning to cast which is a lot of fun...and really challenging!

 (Mike explaining the basics)

 (Learning the art of fly fishing!)

(Fly fishing in Boulder Bay on Big Bear Lake!)

I'm excited to keep learning and even more pumped to add something else to the arsenal of outdoor activities I enjoy. If you get a chance swing by and check out my friends over at the North Shore Trading Company and Big Bear Fishing Adventures. They've got a great operation going on in Fawnskin, on the north shore of the lake. Tell them Matt sent you over and they will hook you up! 

 

(planning a trip to Colorado this summer)

Time to Ride!

(Time trial bike all ready to go!)

The Cycling Association is holding all sorts of different rides, my favorite being the Thursday Night Time Trials. It will be the same course over the entire summer, with some Thursday nights being "officially" timed. This is a great way to measure progress over the summer. Last week I rode the 10.5 mile course in 27 minutes flat which is an average speed of 23.3 mph. My goal over the course of the summer is to break 24 minutes...just over 26 mph average. Some fast guys showed up last week but I felt the pressure to ride fast because of the new wheels on the bike...I went first out on the course and had to put in a hard effort to not get caught. Sounded like a few of the guys rode in the 26 minute range and local Pro Mountain Biker Derek Hermon was down in the 25's. I am really looking forward to trying to drop my time down and to the weekly get together with a bunch of local riders. For more info on this ride or others check out the info HERE!

A New Challenge in Town?

The Seven Summits of Big Bear have become somewhat of a local challenge. It's perfect. Something you can start now, and finish in a few months, or a few years. There is no time limit...just the amount of time it takes you to complete. But what if there was a time limit? Or what if the goal was to complete the task of tackling all 7 summits in the shortest amount of time possible, traveling only by foot. This is the talk among the local scene right now. Taking this peaceful and inspiring journey of hiking, and turning it into a grueling endurance push...sounds fun.

Check out this write up on the Trails Foundation page about a potential route: HERE

(A young Harper contemplates her own 7 summits push)

For now I am going to work on planning my route and practicing in sections. The total mileage looks to be anywhere from 50+ depending on the chosen route, with a ton of elevation gain and loss. I agree that it could be done in under 24 hours...and think if I can get the route dialed in I might be able to break that mark!

San Gorgonio Hike Video

Spring means Things To Do in Big Bear

Lot's going down in Big Bear right now even though it is considered by most to be the "shoulder" season up here. To be honest, this is one of the nicest times of the year in Big Bear. The crowds from the ski resorts have left and the forest is alive from the abundance of water up here. Waterfalls are common on the trails that are bone dry most of the year and the lake is filled up to the brim. It's spring time...and that mean time to get outside and go! Check out some of the sweet things going down in Big Bear right now...and see you out there!

Cycling Association Rides - Guided and Organized rides most days of the week. Check schedule to see where ride leaves from and time. From race training rides to easy pedals.

Bouldering Club Outings - Bouldering in a group setting at one of the local climbing areas on Tuesday nights. Check schedule to see what area is in for what day. No experience or gear needed. Meets at Starbucks Interlaken at 6pm on Tuesdays.

Mountain Top Hiking Club - Organized group that hikes local trails to provide knowledge and access to scenic destinations in the area. Check site for schedule of trails and meeting time. Usually 2 or more hikes a week.

Boxing/Grappling Classes - Adult MMA classes geared towards beginners interested in learning an additional form of training, and for those that don't mind getting physical. World class instruction in a group learning environment. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm.

These are just a few of the organized activities that are going down on a regular basis in Big Bear. For more information on any of these events, plus more, check out Open Air Big Bear!

Sugarloaf Mountain Photos

Check out some of the photos from my recent trek up Sugarloaf Mountain. This was part hike and part snowshoe and definitely all vistas! Easy on the eyes...tough on the legs, sounds just about right for a another mid-week Big Bear adventure. The whole trip took about 6 hours but we were in no rush. Heading out to make a snowy ascent of San Gorgonio April 24-26 for anybody interested. Check out Open Air Big Bear on Facebook for more details. See you out there!

 (Sugarloaf Mountain with San Gorgonio in the back)
 

(San G, at 11,502' the highest mountain in So Cal)

 (Nearing 10K', gnarly trees make for an interesting summit)

(The view of Big Bear Lake with Mt. Baldy in the background)