Tales of a Western Wisconsin Rider: September 2012

Jordan's 2nd Short and Fat Victory

Jordan lived up to expectations as the favorite to win the 2012 Chequamegon Short and Fat. He won by over 3 minutes, beating Brett Poulton and Ian Haupt, who were 2nd, and 3rd respectively. Jordan flew the Freewheel Bike colors, in thanks to owner Kevin Ishaug, who loaned Jordan his 2012 Trek Top Fuel 9.9 MTB for the event. Additional thanks go to Maury Malanaphy of Trek for helping find Jordan a bike to race at this year's event. Jordan doesn't own a mountain bike, and racing a cross bike isn't practical.

The age limit to enter the Chequamegon 40 is 18. At 17, Jordan's only choice this year was to come back and attempt to defend his 2011 Short and Fat title. Jordan was afforded a front row start, thanks to John Thompson. It was so nice to have so many people, both friends and strangers, approach Jordan to say "hi" and "good luck".

Jordan's plan was the same as last year. Attack as soon as the pavement ends, less than a mile into the race. All the contenders were ready for the move, and he didn't just ride away from everyone like last year. However, only Myles Beach was able to match Jordan's pace, as a gap slowly opened to the rest of the field, led by Josey Weik. Beach pulled through over the top of the first climb, only to have Jordan attack again, and get away for good. Beach would ultimately make the chase group of 7, and finish 4th on the day.

Jordan came into view at Telemark with over a 3 minute lead, and a big smile on his face. He was within reach of his course record from the previous year, 38:41, but decided to enjoy the last kilometer of the race, and savor the feeling of repeating as Short and Fat champion.

Next year will be Jordan's first opportunity to race the Cheq 40. However, he will also be in his last year of road racing as a junior, and hopes to qualify for the Junior Road World Championships. Since road worlds are typically held at the same time as the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival, he may have to postpone his 1st attempt at the Cheq 40.