Colorado Trail Race memoirs. Humbled, but still hungry.

My experience on the Colorado Trail Race (CTR) 2023. Come along for the ride... views on views, smiles for miles, broken ribs, altitude sickness, and caviar dreams... :)
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[@alanhanley9515]

Mate, your a legend, no need to apologise, life is for those who pursue their dreams despite the outcomes!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words, so true 🙏

[@danielmontgomery7948]

By no means a fail - heal well and you’ll be more ready to pursue your goal! Your videos- and your positive energy are a great source of inspiration!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks :) your kind words mean a bunch!!

[@knordberg]

It's amazing you lasted as long as you did with the rib injury and altitude sickness. The dehydration you went thru was pretty dangerous. Glad God let you know it was time to pull the plug. Glad you survived and will go on to bike another day!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and your encouraging words! Looking forward to getting back out there :) ride on!

[@JRd941]

Love the ending. That’s what cycling is really about.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching! Ride on :)

[@chrisbailey2861]

What a great recount of your journey. I've got the biggest goosebumps from how you closed this video out. Such a strong effort. Thanks for bringing us along!!!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching:)

[@dennisviquez7636]

It’s all about the journey not about the finish line. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching :) ride on!

[@Ron_Boy]

Super human effort. I know what broken ribs feel like. Can't believe you got as far as you did. Very impressive!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words - happy to say, no broken ribs this year and a much better experience out there - ride on!

[@randallgd]

Have broken ribs a few times I am so impressed you went as far and did as you did. That is big win in my book! Thanks for sharing was very inspiring. You seem like a tough, good dude and you'll bounce back and be back to climbing like a goat and decending like 20 year old before winter! Good energy your way man :)

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Haha 😂 thanks for your energizing words!!

[@petedog9581]

Junction Creek/Hoffheins/Dry Fork/CT back down to JC is my favorite local Durango ride. Never rode it packed though. Takes me back some years... I live in OH.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for sharing!!! Ride on :)

[@jasoncox3647]

Bro your savage!! Your an incredible inspiration. No one cares that you scratched. What we care about is that your ok. I lived in Glenwood Springs for many years and the Rockies are no joke. Your experience is a great teaching opportunity for your viewers. Failure is part of life . As a pro ski patroller for many year altitude is no joke. Heal up quickly. Respect. J

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words- ride on!!!

[@sambgroovy123]

Glad you made it back safely. God bless those trail angels.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Ain’t that the truth!

[@edlaws6867]

Don’t beat yourself up Al, that was a sterling effort. I’ve broken ribs crashing my bike, I know your pain. Glad you’re ok now. Much love Ed

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks, Ed :)

[@scottsugimoto8223]

Sorry the event didn't go yiyr way Alan. With that said, sure loved the video. Your attitude , zest for life, and sense of adventure !!!! Be well my friend

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks Scott, for your kindness 🙏

[@talang1725]

Your videos encouraged me to get back into cycling and specifically bikepacking after a terrible mvc. What you may view as a “failure” is inspiring. The Mike Tyson quote was great and true about much in life. Looking forward to your next installment.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words! Glad to hear you’re back on a bike 🙏 ride on!

[@christopher3188]

It’s always interesting to hear others stories. 🤙

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching :)

[@misfitsng]

wow, what an epic adventure! Thank you for sharing, love Colorado. Def was the right decision to end when you did, glad you had awesome peeps to take care of you!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and your kindness 🙏

[@robertbotta6536]

OG! You are the best. One of us.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and your kind words!!

[@outbackwack368]

A man's got to know his limitations... your body and mind control your destiny... look out for #1, but don't step in #2! Good job and a speedy recovery!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks 🙏

[@gravelpack8536]

Beautifully humble video man. What an amazing thing to be alive and ride your bike.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words! Ride on 🤙

[@MrShiffard]

Wow! What an amazing series of events. Clearly, it was meant to happen that way. Another epic video Alan, thanks for sharing your adventure.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

As always, thanks for watching!

[@davidalderson7761]

Great report. And a very sensible reason for quitting, my major golden rule is if the injury looks like it could be very long term or permanent you have to stop and heal first. The ego goes in the bin. The ego actually went in the bin decades ago, now it’s try and ensure a finish, a quit is fine is damage if coming.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and sharing 🙏

[@schwanhardi]

Outstanding adventure Alan, thanks for sharing all and yes, keep up the positive energy good sir!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks so much Schwan!

[@ellerybice3787]

You Sir are very inspiring. 🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

So are your comments 🙌

[@mark-c]

Thanks for taking us along on your journey! You rock.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

My pleasure!! Thanks for watching :)

[@markday1714]

the best content, relatable, honest, and true! thanks

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@devilsboxcar3925]

Brilliant video……you either win or learn, so thank you for sharing your insights

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thank you for watching !

[@erinclaudio9211]

I really appreciate your vlog. And your willingness to share. And now for some home family time for you boss

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words- and yes, family time 🤙

[@mhargler]

I bruised my ribs and it was brutal. Took me almost a month to feel back to normal. You should keep your head held high. Appreciate you taking the time to share this tale.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words :)

[@BretSchnitzer]

Your vid’s are some of the best out there. Keep them coming!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@2020EBK]

Yeah! Beautiful story!!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching!

[@tellit_one3613]

Whoo! Tough going north. What an amazing effort!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks :) it’s brutally beautiful that’s for sure!!

[@meeeeeeeeeesh]

Big hugs...crazy story!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks chica :) rib is just about healed and slowly getting back into riding- yahoo :)

[@chriscolfels5683]

Amazing ride, the trail system in incredible

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Yes it is! Thanks for watching :)

[@maettu99]

You are really tough. Maximum respect! I hope you can complete the CT when you're healthy again. All the best for that. We will tackle the CT from Denver to Durango next year in July. It's quite a journey from Switzerland.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words :) So excited for you to come and tackle the CT - you're gonna love it!!! Ride on :)

[@davegleason8007]

Love your videos. CT by bike is on my list. Maybe next summer. I hiked it in 2016 and live very close to the start in Evergreen CO. Impressive determination. Sorry about the bad luck. Give ‘er hell when you’re all healed up.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Will do, thanks for watching 🙏

[@caseyfraser2643]

Yo Bro.. I thoroughly enjoyed once again this and all your videos.. I felt your pain and love as you rode along.. I once again failed to finish your ride in the Eastside (Caldera route)…which gets me back for next year’s GD..thanks for your inspiration..move forward Loco❤

[@scottchudley8646]

Wow, inspirational!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching!

[@PumpkinVillage]

Your tolerance to pain is very impressive. What beautiful riding and I'm sure you will be back again. Thank you for the video and looking forward to your next adventure. Love your content. Take care, Al

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words! 🙏

[@lgrankin]

Very cool and sorry that you weren't able to complete the ride. My wife and I were in MT Princeton Hot Springs for a wedding this summer. Very fun place!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Yeah, it’s a cool place :) thanks for watching!

[@mikesymons]

Well done sir no matter how it ended!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

thanks a bunch :) ride on!

[@richardc.9126]

All I have to say is... you are a BEAST ! I would have called it waaaay back but you kept going. This video was awesome ! The drone vids are amazing. They capture the trail in a "birds eye" perspective. Loved it. Youv video has got me thinking about this race and I haven't done a bikepacking race yet. Heck, the most miles I've done in a day is 30. Keep up the vids. I'll have to check out the Iditarod one. Sooo cool. Oh, BTW, love the pay-it-forward. And totally agree with God's creation comments. It's a spiritual experience being in the mountains.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks so much for watching!! Your kind words are much appreciated 🙏

[@user-js6fx8wn1p]

Another great video, thanks for sharing!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching 🤙

[@racer_chef]

Epic story!! Your vid’s are all so good. I got interested in CTR this year. Maybe 2-3 year plan for me Thank you your videos are super informative and I take a lot of information from you

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

The CT is so good!! You gotta do it!!! Thanks for your kind words 🙏

[@jasonbean4895]

what a story! thx for sharing!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Glad you enjoyed it! ride on!

[@CyclingLifePT]

Sorry to hear about your broken rib. I've broken some ribs too about a month ago, but i stopped immediately instead of pushing through with it. From the looks of the terrain i would have stopped as soon as i could get help and go back home if i was you on that trail too. Anyway, you live and you learn. I admire you to share your experiences with us even though you might feel ashamed with some stuff. You are a real trooper, but sometimes you have to 'push the plug' sooner. I wish you the best of luck with your 2 month recovery and that soon enough will be able to go back on the saddle with no limitations. Keep it up!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words🙏 ride on!!

[@hikojeep5254]

Dude! You are tougher than 99.99% of the guys that I know that bike. Including my self 😢 Keep up the positive energy.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

I appreciate that! thanks for watching :)

[@jeffbull9055]

You are and continue to be an inspiration. Praying for your quick and complete recovery.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks so much for your kind words! Rib is almost back to 💯 and I’m slowly getting back Olin the bike- yahoo!

[@ellerybice3787]

All is well, you conquered the attempt. The challenge awaits your return.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

thanks for watching and, yep - I'll get back out there one of these days :) Ride on!

[@demoner1]

Great video, really enjoyed you sharing your story. Sorry it didn't go quite as planned.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching :) life is good!!

[@richardjacoby7812]

What you did accomplish was Amazing under the circumstances and the Mike Tyson quote was very appropriate. The video was great as usual. :)

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching, Dad 🙏

[@jackschonely592]

Alan,,, you are one tough dude! That was a well spent half hour. I am so sorry that the outcome was different than planned, but what a story. Hope you are all healed up.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Healed up and slowly getting back into shape 🙏 thanks for your kindness !

[@ridesrambles8903]

I am so pleased I found your channel a couple of years ago, your attitude in adversity is inspiring, and you bring out the best in those you meet, and that's a real gift. Hope you have a full and speedy recovery. Stay blessed

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Wow, thank you! Your kind words are much appreciated!!

[@gregknipe8772]

I had the old eye rolls when you gave your preamble of 'I'll never quit'. glad you moved on from the platitudes to reality, which is what we expect. carry on sir.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching

[@ChrisChiappini]

“Smiles not miles.” This video is great! Thank you for sharing your experience! This video has motivated me to “get out there!”

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Awesome, Chris! Thanks for watching, ride on!!

[@DAMN55117]

Thanks for sharing. I feel for you. I had to bail on the CT as well. I was not injured or crashed. It was all about elevation as well. I could not consume enough water/calories to keep going. Truth is I struggle with calorie intake at regular altitudes, but it was dramatically worse on the CT similar to what you experienced. I watched a lot of videos of people doing it before I tried and no one ever shared the experience you did. I am sure your video will at least make others aware of this potential. I appreciate your outlook on life. Please share your set up...we are always interested in that. What worked and didn't work...

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and sharing 🙏 I’ve got a couple more vids in the pipeline re: bike setup, bags, gear, etc comin soon… ride on!

[@bobgilliland8598]

Alan you are a lot tougher than I can ever imagine great video I still cant believe you kept going, gives me strength to see this

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Wow, thank you- so kind of you:). Ride on!

[@yotersmitt]

Epic journey with an amazing ending! What a highlight! God is good!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

You can say that again!

[@billmaidment5623]

Not a failure! 😂😂 laughing is another sign of altitude sickness, along with your slurred speech and lack of appetite. Glad you knew enough to pull the plug and live another day. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching, Bill 🙏

[@billmaidment5623]

@@DirtyTeethMTB I’ve looking for the episode where you show how to sew up a torn sidewall. You did that, right?

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

@@billmaidment5623 nope, but maybe I should? 🤔

[@theonlyDougBlack]

This might be your best video. I really appreciate you posting this. Just back into biking at age 51. Always hurdles and temporary setbacks, but (even if it takes 15 years 😂) always get back on the bike. Can't wait to see what you do next!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks so much for your kind words :) Rib is better, just starting to ride again… yahoo!

[@scottbowman5673]

You are the man! Congrats on your ride, sorry that you had to give in. I’ve messed up ribs before myself and it is no fun. Hope you have healed up? You have always been an inspiration to me and my rides! Keep on keeping on my friend!🤘😀🚵‍♂️

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind comment, Scott :) Yes, ribs are healed, and training for Fat Pursuit :) Keep on keepin' on...

[@sylv_ain]

Still Amazing! The CTR really is brutal, so much climbing but you still pushed yourself and respected your body. What a great adventure. I flew transcontinental couple of times during that period and find it crazy to think you were in your journey just below my wings !

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words 🙏 much appreciated!

[@dannyzuehlsdorf3697]

Great stories to share with your family now and in the future! "Remember when grandpa broke his ribs and rode 300 miles in the mountains?!" GOOD STUFF

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Haha! Hopefully I’m not a grandpa any time soon 😂 thanks for your kindness 🙏

[@JaysonBryant]

Wow, what a journey, but amazing video. Trust you've mended now? What companionship you experienced. I'm so happy that paying it forward works. Great karma.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Rib is pretty much healed up now, been getting back into riding for a couple weeks now - thanks for asking!

[@laurippt]

Really amazing video about this trip! Sorry you got hurt but, wow! To get as far as you did is incredible! What an amazing end to the trip too

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words :) 🙏

[@abstraddic0442]

💯👍

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thank you for watching!!

[@kenprice1047]

To Glorify God! That’s awesome! And yes He paints those beautiful sunrise/sunsets! Sorry you had to scratch but you still put in some hard fought, sick miles my friend!! 🙌🤙🏼🚵🏻‍♂️

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching and your kind words, Ken!!

[@arcoulant87]

Epic ,chapeau .

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching!!

[@you43584036]

Terrible how bike falls come out of nowhere. Think about all the pre-race distractions and anxiety nicely described in your video. So what we do then is just head out the door for another ride and all is good again.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

That’s the truth! Get back on the horse 🤙🤙 ride on!

[@johnconnor7201]

great video dude!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching 🙏

[@tomg.542]

Allen: Hope your ribs are mending. I know you live near Boise so, maybe you're already living at some altitude but what about trying to get your body adjusted to something above say 6k next time? And yes, there will be a next time. I rode, but did not race, the CT in 2019 and met you in 2021 in the van headed up to the Canadian Border or the "short version" of the Tour Divide (you gave me a Subway Gift card which I carried all the way to Mexico). I would love to ride the CT again next summer and am considering doing the race this time around. Hope to see you there!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for chiming in! Good times on the van to the border... so stoked you completed your divide ride! - Hope you do the CTR this year :) I'm considering going back out if my schedule lines up and I get some time to really train (but I would do ITT Dur>Den again, so would be giving all of you high fives as we pass each other:) This year, I tried to force it with only a month of training... after being pretty sedentary for four months after finishing Iditarod, vacation time, and filming a movie, etc. I've ridden much of CT before, and spent plenty of time at altitude (I lived at 8k for 12 years, trained often at 10k +) and never had sickness like this... I think it was mainly due to just being out of shape, and not getting any big rides in during the lead up... but obviously, time up high would've helped a bunch too, which I'll def focus on more as time allows:) - anyhoo... ride on, and hope to see ya in CO!!!

[@chucksmalls8125]

💪💪💪

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching :)

[@ericbaumgartner6558]

Great video! I'm pretty sure you will finish next year.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for watching :) I’ll get back out there one of these days!

[@stephenhammond3656]

Hey Alan. You're Awesome mate!! Another great film. I know the outcome wasn't what you wanted, but you'll be back one day to finish this off. I scratched TD this year and it's been bugging me ever since. Planning to return to 24 and get it done. BTW, what bivy bag are you using??

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Sorry to hear about the TD, but it’s a nice reason to get back out there :) re: bivy - I took an OR helium on CT - doing bike check/gear videos soon 🤙

[@rodcosta2345]

When you think the videos can't get any better! And I'm a roadie!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Haha 😂 thanks 🤙

[@jitterspec]

Im amazed you soldiered on as long as you did. Supper impressive. Did you say what was wrong? Broken rib confirmed? Does it heal on its own?

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Yes I confirmed with doc when I got home… and yes, healed on its own… after 3-4 weeks of taking it easy … hopefully I’ll stay healthy this time around :) ride on!

[@ellerybice3787]

What a wonderful story, thank God for adversity. 🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thank you so much, Ellery!! Ride on through adversity 🤙🤙

[@Jinedan]

Quite a tale! Did you ever go to the hospital??

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Yep - my rib is mostly healed up and I’ve been cleared to mtb again 👍

[@JS-gz8qt]

Sounds like those first few pieces of pizza gave you food poisoning... been there. I've also broken ribs in a crash. We never think of our ribs until there damaged then that's all we think of till they heal. What tire are you running on the front? Love your content! Sending prayers your way for a speedy recovery. 🙏

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Maxxis forekaster (v1 that’s been discontinued) thanks for watching 🙏

[@gahroe]

Curious what info informs your approach to managing altitude sickness? In my experience you need to immediately get lower and recover for a few days, not push through. Altitude sickness can culminate in either your brain swelling or lungs filling with fluid and are fatal in both cases? Curious?

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Ya pushing through was probably not the best

[@davidlang9939]

LIFE IS SHORT, LICK THE BOWL, RIDGE RIDE. UV ALREADY PROVED UR METTLE!!

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Lick the bowl 🙌🙌 love it !

[@junkmileswarrior8974]

Respect for your euphoric scenic misery mate

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@andyhatch]

what flashlight holder is that for your helmet? i cant seem to find one like that

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

it's an exposure lights mount - www.exposure-use.com/Brands/Exposure-Lights/Products/Bike/Brackets-and-Mounts/Helmet-Mount ride on!

[@andyhatch]

Your the man! much appreciated! @@DirtyTeethMTB

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

@@andyhatchno sweat 🤙

[@TheJoePavlik]

the description of your rib at the end. ouchie.

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Haha ouchie is right :)

[@backcountryFLcyclist]

Character is crafted through adversity

[@DirtyTeethMTB]

Well said :)