Leading the race by minutes after the first stage, Bend Racing/Skindoctor pushed the pace in the next few stages to open up a lead that no one could reel back.

“That was the hardest 24 hour race we have ever done,” said Dusty Caseria after crossing under the finishing arch to a waiting crowd of race directors, volunteers, and fans.

“Best designed course I have ever been on,” added Max King who praised the numerous miles of dirt roads that connected sections of the course.

The team completed the 122 mile course, with nearly 19,000 feet in elevation gain in just over 27 hours. The final trek over Sterling (Whiteface) Mountain slowed the team down, but every team struggled with the trek that Bend completed in seven and a half hours.

At the awards ceremony, the team took home both the fastest mountain bike and blazing paddle awards.

“I really couldn’t find any mistakes with their nav over the entire course,” said Mike Garrison, USARA Executive Director.

After the team enjoyed the attention at the finish for their win and had a quiet moment to themselves, they could be heard thanking each other, modestly deflecting praise of themselves to redirect to something strong someone else did to assist them.

“You carried me through that race.”

“No, thank you for carrying all of my stuff in the race.”

Truly an example of strong athletes but even stronger teammates.