We attempted the hardest MTB race in North America (Marji Gesick 100 2024)

[@sydandmacky]

We're so thankful for the opportunity to share this race with you all. It was a day we'll never forget. Since this was getting pretty long, we're going to record a follow up video with our post race reflections, now that we've had some time to process. If you have any questions or topics you'd like us to cover, reply to this comment 👇♥️ and again, thank you for your support and being part of this channel!

[@fovo2]

Why don’t they have a male and female cutoff time? Considering no females have ever gone under 12 hrs, should be extended to 13 hrs for females, syd so deserved one!!

[@TMAN882]

You guys are amazing and great job as usual! Can you quickly talk about bike setup for this race? I’ve seen most your setup videos but super curious what tires you decided on. I just purchased and trying Aspen with a rear tire insert based on feedback from your videos.

[@davomoto42]

How was the registration process for you? Marji registration is a race all by itself!

[@dancannaday4135]

I'd love to hear more about how this race and the challenges faced here inspire you and prepare you for future rides and other crazy goals.

[@MarquetteMTB]

I think the biggest question on my mind is: will Syd be back next year in an attempt to be the 1st woman to buckle? 🔥

[@ronskayakingandfishing414]

Holy COW!!!! First place for Syd in her first ever 100 miler!!! Awesome!!!!

[@andrewnorris5415]

This could be her calling, ultra endurance.

[@Rasakson]

oh man gotta remind myself not to read comments before i've watched the video

[@ronskayakingandfishing414]

@@Rasakson Hate that I spoiled it for you. I pretty much always watch the video before looking at comments, didn't think about someone else not doing it that way.

[@Rasakson]

@@ronskayakingandfishing414 haha don't worry it's my fault and I enjoyed the video nonetheless

[@TheArrowFist]

I’m laughing on the inside when Macky is complaining about his lower back, hands, and knees, while Syd is saying it’s a nice autumn day on the mountain.

[@Gazelle507]

Jim and Ellen are my favorite additions to these videos. Absolute gems!!

[@lawnman2388]

Absolutely, they rule!!

[@cesarfile]

Wow Syd, your 1st place made me tear up. You guys are truly inspiring!!

[@mikemcdonnell1395]

Same here. I just didn’t want to admit I welled up!

[@loganthibodeaux9864]

Same here. What an awesome effort! And great job whoever edited this.

[@jeffscofield8077]

I attempted the Marji 100 a couple times before finally succeeding on my 3rd try, so I can attest to it's level of difficulty. Your video is probably the most accurate depiction of just how hard this race can be...both from a physical and from a mental standpoint. You two always put together some of the best biking videos available, so I was very much looking forward to seeing this one, and I was not disappointed (I've watched it three times already). It really highlighted everything that goes into not only the race itself, but also what it takes to prepare. This year, because I actually wanted to see the last segment in the daylight (during my successful 100, night had fallen before I left Jackson Park for the last time ), I rode the 50 (which, btw, is actually 62 miles) and I was so tired and mentally drained at about mile 40, that I completely missed Macky going by me. I really wanted to give him a shout-out, but I just never noticed him going by...so here's a late, but well deserved: "Great Job Macky...you've got this!!!" shout-out. Buckling Marji on the first try is incredible. And Syd...finishing in first place on your very first try is simply phenomenal...well done indeed!!! I just gotta ask though: Is there any chance we will see you again next year? Syd, you have a real chance to be the first female to ever buckle. And Macky, the podium is certainly a realistic goal.

[@colincarpenter-g5i]

well said!

[@daveg8212]

OK, that was an absolutely impressive effort -- BOTH racing and storytelling. HUGE congrats, especially to Syd for your 1st place finish! And YES, we all know you'll be back next year for a belt buckle.

[@scottcargile2626]

Best Syd & Macky video ever! What an epic race! Great job to you both!

[@larrymoore2571]

The athleticism, no question, but the mental fortitude of Syd and Macky is the component that is so awe inspiring. Thanks for sharing your grueling adventures with us.

[@ronflores658]

I watch your videos for the action, but Sid’s pause to narrate a particularly painful section half-way through gave a moment of huge empathy. This is the best thing I’ve watched in a long time. Great race you two, and fantastic edit! And the old poet in the hat at the end should be a recurring character!

[@muddypawsadventurer7775]

YOU TWO are YT bicycling hero's... You're not afraid to take on the world of bicycling racing.. and succeed. If there's ever a word that personifies you two... it's "Never-give-up"

[@danfarkas9637]

Watched this during the registration for Marji Gesick X. Im in for the 100!

[@Team81MTB]

OMG!! That's the best, most entertaining video I've seen you two make. Macky, incredible race as always. You just continue to get better and better and you do it all and still are a super nice guy. Much respect. Syd, I can't really put into words how proud I am of you. I've watched the channel from the beginning of your injury until now. Your determination is second to NOBODY on this planet that I've ever seen. Top 20 overall!! 1st place women's division!! Killed it!!! Best race I've ever seen you do. Your mindset made the difference. I now have to officially classify you as a genuine "Beast"!! I've got my long race coming up in November and this video will inspire and motivate me to kill last years PR. Thank you for all that you two do and for making others be more awesome! Much respect!! 💪👊👍

[@steelytail]

They joy and excitement on Jim and Ellen's faces is brilliant. Super proud parents there. Well done Syd you've dug really deep over the last couple of years. This race is where that hard work paid off. Unusual not seen Macky feeling downbeat as he's usually the upbeat one. Proper respect for even finishing this race let alone how well you did.

[@michael.finally]

The cut to Syd "having fun, eating bratwurst on a bike ride" was comedy gold

[@ATSandeen]

Why am I crying at the end? Great job racing! Syd, your parents are amazing! And great job on the video!

[@stoggs85]

Probably dusty like it was in our house!

[@twecharclimber]

Syd this is just sensational, back in 2020 when you were still trying to ride while managing your injury I couldn't see you fully recovering to be a competitive as pre 2020 syd, Through hard graft and stubborn determination your one of the few who achieve living there wildest dreams. I'm in awe of you💪💪💪🙌🙌🙌 and Macky.... Awwlright! 💪💪💪🙌🙌🙌

[@tapuzak]

This was your best video yet. At least that I’ve seen. Hard to make a long race video good, but you delivered. This conveys the feeling of being out there well.

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

Hats off to you both for these awesome achievements. Syd and Macky, I think you are both officially 'MORE AWESOME' now. I had tears in my eyes at the finish. It was great to see Macky's pride for his wonderful partner at the finish line. Having watched your videos for a few years now, I'm amazed how you continue to impress me. When Macky passes by people on the trail, he is always so polite and so encouraging. When Syd suffers through difficult moments, her self-talk is always so positive. It is a lesson to us all in how to nurture our mental health. On top of that, the filming, the editing, and the post-production are just getting better and better. You just do a great job. Thank you so much.

[@travisjones4992]

Straight to the top of the “best videos we’ve ever made” playlist. Amazing work on the race and video guys. You’re incredible

[@keirfarnum6811]

11:16 I have never heard Metallica played with bagpipes before. Kinda cool! 😎 That was an entertaining video. You guys made that long slog interesting; so kudos not just on finishing, but also making a very watchable video out of it. 👍🏻

[@byronpeterson795]

Truly inspirational. Phenomenal job by you both. Shoutout to Ellen and Jim for being an amazing support crew. Love that the race has its own theme song.

[@daddiikong1602]

So it's the Barkley Marathon on 2 wheels! Great job!!!

[@jimbarnes3232]

I've watched a lot of your videos and this is stellar. I thought this 1.5 hour show was better than a lot of movies I've seen. Great job Syd on the win! You guys rock! Looking forward to the next one.

[@pandatactical4530]

Fantastic job guys! Thanks for sharing this special moment with us. Congrats on 1st place Syd you will never forget this one! 🎉🎉🎉

[@twoforadventure]

We have followed y’all for years…. Such an inspiration. This video was epic. Y’all are awesome!!!

[@darrenbutterworth807]

Thanks for the extra special bumper episode! I loved seeing it all in one epic video instead of being broken up into sections - I hope the algorithm is equally appreciative! And WOW, what an amazing ride by both of you - the whole thing was pretty emotional, but that montage of support for you Syd, when you most needed it in the dark hour at the end, really got me! Thanks again for sharing your wonderful experiences with us all. 💯🚴💪❤️

[@mtoscano343]

AMAZING!!! Congratulations!! I cried happy tears watching Syd hit the tape!

[@katrinahase]

Love the video!! The recorded messages from friends and family were so cool. Incredible job pushing through the tough parts and great finishes! So fun to see you out on course too.

[@bdgreenlee]

Awesome job, and great video! You're both an inspiration. (btw, it's "neh-GAW-nee")

[@oilyvio]

its incredible to have both your povs and commentary (as well as syd's parents' pov), also incredibly touching to see the camaraderie with other riders, amazing video! congrats!! this is SO impressive

[@SpecialeyesRider]

Such proud parents! They're awesome! Everytime I saw them support and cheer on Syd, I got emotional. Having adult kids do their best and enjoy what they do is nothing short of a miracle. So supportive so positive and so excited to be involved. I'm not a mountian biker, but I watched the whole thing because of how you two interact with each other. It's easy to find drama on KZbin, but to find a couple with a shared interest and speak respectful to each other is refreshing.

[@fid420]

Big mistake not stopping for the brat! 😂 I thought it wouldn’t t sit well and it ended up being awesome. Congratulations! I was #FINISHER at a blazing 22hr 10min 😂

[@sydandmacky]

Congrats!!

[@alchemist89blk]

The music added so much to the video. WELL DONE Macky! WELL DONE Syd.

[@hippiebits2071]

Adding that suspenseful music was a savage move! Fantastic job to all involved and what a well earned and amazing win for Sydney! Great job guys!

[@MarquetteMTB]

You two are badasses, it was a pleasure to meet you both and hope to see you both out there again next year! 🔥🙏🏼

[@glencompton2949]

OMG you guys are the best. You capture that event and your story so well. What an epic video, totally deserved to be movie length. Watched it as our Saturday night in. We’re super proud of both of your achievements. Syd’s journey in particular has been inspiring and the mindset you both had to push through to finish is almost unfathomable! Finally your family support crew is truly a blessing. The memories you share through that must be incredible.

[@HarrisFamilyThree]

Your videos, including this extra long one, are what keep me going on the hard trainer workouts:). Love seeing Syd's parents get in on the filmmaking fun!! Great effort out there on that course!

[@hil3007]

Amazing job! Thanks for bringing us along on this brutal journey!

[@sydandmacky]

Thank you!

[@ltexas4936]

Best race and video yet! Congrats

[@paolaluzziseidl3328]

I just cried my eye balls out 🤧😍 Your videos are getting better and better ! I can't even imagine to ride such a long mtb race. I adore you guys, congratulatios !! Amazing !

[@brandonwoodbury513]

Syd, Macky, you two are so inspiring! I want to ride every time I see you torture yourselves. You push, fight, and endure, just so you can say. "I did that!". It's proof that winning isn't everything, it's the accomplishment. Thank you for sharing every adventure. Syd, more of your stellar parents please. Their enthusiasm is contagious. Congrats, that was a special race day.

[@jeremymcbride8729]

Syd, Macky you both are legends. What a crazy event. Just wanna let you know Syd, I know what it’s like to have nerve pain/damage and constant pain. You both always inspire me to keep riding my bike as much as I can. Thank you for the videos and inspiration.

[@justincapek1132]

So good!! Not only an accomplishment, but a victory for Syd. Yall's channel is excellent

[@thomryan3218]

What an awesome video! I’m in total agreement with a lot of the other comments that I was your best one yet. I really enjoyed meeting you both at Jackson Park when you were pre-riding! I also loved meeting Ellen and Jim. I got to see them two more times when I was running the out and back and I had the chance to see where your kindness and energy come from. You’re a fantastic group and are all an inspiration. Oh yeah, and i mighta cried a little near the end of the video. #bemoreawesome.

[@sydandmacky]

Congrats on being a #finisher of the 200 run. That's completely nuts!

[@Dlp1776]

This race has always been one I’d love to do as a younger me LOL! I’ve raced 12 hour MTB races in the past and this is the best video. It was great to hear all those conversations with yourself on the trail that many people don’t get to experience. And Syds parents as pit crew was awesome. Thanks for sharing and way to crush it!

[@grantlingley1385]

Just watching Syd coming across….the two of you are unreal!!! Congratulations!!!!! Can’t lie, a little bit of a tear for you guys! Fantastic video, possibly your best but honestly they all Wonderful!

[@BeastModewithJJ]

Very inspirational guys. Great job to both of you. I just raced the Shennandoah 100k, my first XC race ever and came in second to last place in just over 11 hours. I'm stoked to have finished and look forward to the next battle.

[@sydandmacky]

Congrats!

[@boydcrowder4436]

Holy smokes...my butt is sore just watching!..Awesome race by both of y'all. Congrats Macky on the buckle. Totally awesome race Syd, I'm so happy to see you outrun the field.

[@ThunderStruckMTB]

Your story telling is just bonkers. My wife and I can't wait to watch your videos and the level to where you have progressed in your editing is just incredible. Congrats on the race, you both are more awesome than just about everyone!

[@GermanTabor]

I’ve been watching since 2020 and it’s been so great to see Syd kicking so much a$$. What a comeback. Inspiring

[@robwales5987]

What an amazing day for both of you! Syd, first off, your parents are AWESOME! You are blessed! Amazing win especially with all you had to overcome the past few years. How cool was it to see someone wearing your jersey in the race?! Lastly, congratulations Macky! Great race and you are a great ambassador for the sport. 👍👍

[@butchl6403]

Just incredible! That was redonkulous. Congrats to you both for an amazing race and thank you for letting us take part in the adventure.

[@mtb4ever285]

Congratulations to both Syd and Macky for finishing. Syd's commentary just after minute 56 is inspiring to me and I hope anyone else who has tried to do any bike or run or anything else that was hard. The comments are absolutely applicable to life itself, because life is hard for all of us at times. Thanks to both of you for your inspiration and sharing your journey!

[@safetythird23]

You are most Awesome!!! Way to go Syd-great performance, great attitude and self talk, such a great result! Well done 🥳. Congrats Macky on still being a fast beast!

[@rubenbarcenas589]

I really really love your parents, they are soooo energetics and can help anyone, congratulations Syd and Macky,

[@EvanLownds]

This was your best video to date. The race footage, behind the scenes support crew, and overall attitude of “it’s a privilege to suffer” really made this one stand out.

[@Trailberto]

Congrats Syd. Ive been watching you 2 for a long time. I know how much just doing this race means for you after suffering for so long and not knowing what was wrong. To finally beating the pain to actually winning the the toughest longest race you have ever done. SUPPER inspirational. Thank you for being you. Great job you two!!!!!!!

[@mattmcdowell5225]

GREATNESS!!! IN every WAY!!! Amazing Racing, Incredible Course, Hard as "All get Out", And a Rockin tune to promote Danny and Todd and their masochistic race design. Congrats Syd. We love you. You deserve that win BIG TIME! Mackie, Always a pleasure watching you race hard, and just how polite and encouraging you are all race long, especially to the other riders. You guys truly are HEROs in this sport. thank you.

[@jeffkonkle8528]

Not only did Syd finish 1st in the women's field, she was 20th Overall in a field with many Pro Men. That is arguably even more impressive to me. Don't forget to send Kristy her half of the first place winnings for being your guide for your first Marji 100!

[@chelsearoberts3044]

The purse is $1 lol

[@jakebeaudrie]

I woke the dogs up cheering when I saw Syd win the race! So. Awesome. I migth've even teared up a bit. :)

[@randyonbass1]

Something I just want to comment on is that the editing that was done on this race was really top-notch! Really good editing cuts, the music selection, and voiceover was really one of the best. Great job!

[@thecma3]

Absolutely insane. Sid's riding lately had me forgetting her fight through injury. What an incredible comeback; I'm so proud of a complete stranger!

[@boblavoie335i]

So glad I found this channel. I enjoy all the videos. I love the fact this is something you two do together and the support you have for each other. Congrats on your win Syd and great effort to you Mackey. Well done.

[@seanmcshane6648]

I just got back from a week backpacking in the desert and was happy to see the 100 mile MJ race video was uploaded!! It’s a great watch on the trainer!!! Great job you two!!

[@bethcollins2446]

I'm glad you guys appreciated the very special spirit that is created at Marji. It is one of a kind. Rode the 50 in 2019 at age 62 and then volunteered at JMP in 2021. Being there until it closes really shows the whole story. Thanks for all the footage - so awesome.

[@tiagoweyne6661]

I peloton training flew by, and it is the third time I watch this video (episode), thank you so much!!! If you guys retire one day from racing and open a bike shop I will be your costumer!

[@clarkmenough2235]

One of the coolest events I have ever been a part of. The community up there is amazing. I personally have unfinished business up in those woods.

[@aaronwaderides7209]

I noticed Macky saying my back my knees are getting sore . I was beginning think he wasn’t normal , but he is lol . Your pain cave is very big and the wellness to never quite that drive you guys never lose that feeling. I’m a older rider and I don’t compete anymore watching your videos is inspiring so thank you 🙏

[@jeffscofield8077]

Yeah, I've already commented once, but I wanted to again thank you two for putting together this video. Like I said earlier, I've been to Marji multiple times and it's be hard for me to explain to friends and family just how difficult this race can be. Putting Marji into words, for people who have never tried it, in a way that perhaps accurately conveys the level of difficulty of this race is next to impossible. Now all I have to do is send them to this video!! Oh, and I also want to give a shout-out and say thanks Jim and Ellen for cheering me on as I went by them on my way to Jackson Park for the second, and thankfully final time. Having people shout words on encouragement as you ride by them during this race means more than most people would understand.

[@franciscogietz8616]

That was AWESOME you two!!!!! Syd that's what I call "Embracing the Suck"!!!! CONGRATS!!!!

[@kimisgirl1]

Well done team, you are both amazing. I am currently 8 weeks into recovering from breaking both humerus in multiple places in a massive skiing accident and watching Syd win is the motivation I need to work through my current setbacks and keep the faith that I will get back on the bike and the skis at some point in the coming years. Thank you for all the content you post, it is a silver lining to my current reality.

[@sydandmacky]

Sorry to hear! Heal up fast. You got this! 💪

[@davidkavalauskas2604]

That was such a great video. Macky, when you passed my kid laying on the ground shaking his head 1hr 26 min. In. priceless

[@JorgeAsapche]

Amazing effort! Very emotional, congrats to you both and thanks for the awesome video.

[@sydandmacky]

Thank you!

[@shaneatkin]

So badass! Great job both of you! Syd your an inspiration to my very young granddaughters as they love to ride their MTB’s here in UT!

[@dallasdrew2390]

I watch all you videos and I think this one was your best!!! I had a tear in my eye when Syd crossed the finish line because I could feel how much this ment for her and Macky !!! great one guys .......love it !!!!!!!

[@shelleywilkins9339]

Wow! THAT was absolutely enthralling! Congratulations to you both🎉

[@jusdena.6535]

Excellent and impressive effort you two. Syd, mad props!!

[@thadgillespie5255]

Wow Syd! That’s so cool that you crushed your own bucket list. It must be so satisfying to be here compared to where you were a few short years ago! What a testament and validation to the training you guys have done. Mackey, so impressive to do what you did on your first MG. Congratulations you two beasts! 🎉😅

[@ahenrytheninth]

I ride a whole 100mi a week,commuting to work and shopping, short trips, but the loaded touring bike can weigh 200lbs I'm refurbishing my old Ellsworth Truth to participate in a few over 55 class next year. Your enthusiasm for the sport has lit a flame again in my mind and body

[@davidsnapp3145]

Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! Well done you two. Very inspiring.

[@michaelverbeek7545]

Amazing! Loved seeing the trails again, and some of them I've never seen in the daylight!

[@garydecker3281]

Awesome job both of you! The reminder of everything Syd has been through to get here was inspiring again! I'm going to send this to my daughter who is in her second year of battling a back issue trying to get back to competitive cycling during her sophomore year of college.

[@sydandmacky]

Please send her our best wishes ❤️

[@sebisascau]

You two are truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing this...

[@debs_wheels]

Epic! Thanks for sharing this with all of us. Hopefully you can return to Marquette someday and ride the trails in the fun direction

[@NATURALBORNSHREDDER]

"Stop acting like a drunk person" lol classic Syd self talk. Excellent jobs on the race and video

[@bigg1469]

Big congratulations to the both of you! Wow Syd amazing!

[@JClark2600]

What an amazing race! This has to be my new favorite Syd & Macky race, unseating the BC Bike Race. Good Job!

[@jeromep4148]

Syd, you are such a warrior. I particularly enjoy your in race commentary. You tend to “talk to us” during your most difficult moments - even thru the panting for air! ❤

[@tomerttb]

Wow SYD Wow MACKY This was unreal!, i was glued to the video. this was a crazy race. so proud of both of you for keep fighting and finishing with such amazing time. Also watching your loving family and friends is amazing. I wish i had a family or friends or legs so i can ride a bike.

[@NathanEide]

"I'm having fun so far! Mmm. Bratwurst on a bike ride!" That is so something my daughter would say. I love that outta you Syd!!

[@seannatorske4298]

Syd, your parents are the absolute best! Such a great video, way to go!

[@joanneleyva4942]

You two are next level phenomenal!! This course was so crazy ridiculous rocky, narrow and hard. SYD YOU ARE A ROCK STAR! What an accomplishment to finish; what guts and courage to even start! Syd, your parents are awesome, fun and adventurous!

[@Bluecat564]

I'm not crying you're crying! What an accomplishment for both of you, but Syd I can't imagine the mental fortitude it took to get through this alone in the dark. What a win! Amazing. Also, love the Jim and Ellen content, hilarious and wholesome. Wholelarious.

[@robertkowton5875]

Fantastic video coverage. Most people have no idea how hard it is to film, ride but in your case race, you two are amazing. The effort you put to share your racing journey is appreciated. It would be great to see videos this winter on your off season training, more equipment reviews, and 20w5 plans.

[@jackiegammon2065]

CONGRATS!! To both of you, what an incredible achievement!! Syd what a spectacular ride for you YIPPEE! Lots of cheers for both of you coming all the way from Maine!!

[@brettscott4508]

Ok I almost teared up at the end of this one 😂 bravo, epic performance you’ll never forget!

[@carlyslebrown1601]

Well if this isn't one of the greatest, most impactful and *climactic* long-form videos I've seen in a long time. I've always thought about it, but now I can see the two stories unfolding: you have Macky, the veteran who's become kind of a regional legend once again proving his expertise by getting under 12 hours and *earning* his buckle. Then there's Syd, another veteran and professional, but one whose slowly fought her way back to her previous strength and, to quote a certain anime, going even further beyond. Between telling the story of wanting to do this race for three years, to riding behind locals with an idea of the route ahead, to her feeling more and more confident as the race went on, to the last few minutes with *everyone* cheering her on, to finally crossing the line... *IN FIRST.* It's so insane that even if Hollywood wanted to turn this into a movie, they'd struggle to top it. I'll be honest... I think Syd could become the first woman to crack under 12 hours. Genuinely. With how strong she performed despite her doubts about the route, she can legitimately make history. A *fantastic* effort from you two, and another example as to why you two are the best around.

[@gavinjones8132]

Greatest episode EVER!! So so proud!!!🇦🇺

[@justinmirabal7705]

That was beautiful guys. You are some of the coolest and strongest people I know (not just physically) keep being awesome!