Christchurch’s Joe Nation has conquered the Silk Road Mountain Race, a grueling 2000-kilometre test of endurance and resilience through Kyrgyzstan.
In a race described as the toughest mountain biking challenge globally, Nation completed the route in just six days, navigating treacherous conditions that included lightning storms, freezing temperatures, and even encounters with wolves.
The Silk Road Mountain Race, known for its extreme difficulty, is an unsupported event, meaning participants must rely solely on their own resources and any spontaneous help they might receive. Nation, reflecting on his victory, acknowledged the physical toll of the race, revealing persistent swelling and soreness.
“There’s not much that doesn’t hurt right now,” Nation told Checkpoint. “It’s pretty grueling on most areas, especially the backside. A bit of nerve damage in my hands and feet from the constant shaking and holding on. But it all heals pretty quickly.”
The race’s intensity was amplified by the harsh climate and high altitudes. Nation faced temperatures ranging from 35 to 40 degrees Celsius and climbed passes reaching up to 3800 meters—equivalent to the height of Mount Cook. “The high altitude made me lightheaded and dizzy,” he recounted. “Most of the passes had no clear path at the top, so I was often carrying my bike and slipping around just to get through.”
Cyclists in the race aimed to minimize their gear to cope with the challenges. Nation opted for a bivvy and a lightweight sleeping bag to reduce weight. For food, he relied on sparse supplies from small shops scattered throughout Kyrgyzstan, often 200 to 300 kilometers apart. “They mostly had dry biscuits and coke,” he said. “You have to make do and keep your calories up.”
One memorable moment occurred during a storm when Nation took refuge in a yurt after battling through snow and lightning. “The storm hit right as I reached the top of a high pass. The mud was so thick it clogged up my bike,” he described. A shepherd, seeing Nation’s plight, invited him in for soup and bread, providing a much-needed respite.
Nation’s motivation throughout the race stemmed from his initial desire to test his limits and experience the race’s unique challenges. “There were times when I questioned why I was doing this,” he admitted. “But you have to really want to finish, keep reminding yourself of why you started, and push through.”
The Silk Road Mountain Race was not only a physical challenge but also a cultural adventure for Nation. “It was an incredible experience and a chance to delve into bike pack racing while exploring a place I’d never have visited otherwise. It was worth every effort,” he concluded.
related topics:
- Top 4 Action Cameras for Mountain Biking
- How to Start Mountain Biking
- Who Was the First Olympic Mountain Biking Champion?
