Master

Welcome to the latest slice of my 2009 photo anthology, folks! We’re diving into part 16, where I shine a spotlight on another gem, affectionately dubbed “Master.” Picture this: it’s a sunny July 28th, 2009, at 11:30 AM, and yours truly is behind the lens of my trusty Canon EOS 10D, a beast of a camera that’s seen more action than a summer blockbuster.

This hulking mass of nature, the star of today’s post, stood as a beacon throughout our adventure in Canmore. Not only did it catch our eye, but it also captured the hearts of the locals, serving as a silent yet imposing guardian of the town. This rock wasn’t just a rock; it was the unsung hero, the master of ceremonies at the World Solo Championships, immortalized in my snaps, various videos, and even a 24 Sports documentary.

Fast forward to today, and the echoes of the championship are about to reverberate through Missoula. The town’s gearing up to welcome none other than Rebecca Rusch, the World Solo Champion herself, and Bob Waggoner, a fellow titleholder. They’re bringing the spirit of the WSC right to our doorstep! And if that wasn’t enough, tonight’s screening of “Race Across the Sky” promises to sprinkle a little stardust, with Reba basking in her well-earned fame and Bob armed with an arsenal of Butte 100 posters.

Now, let’s keep it real for a moment. Watching “Race Across the Sky” might light a fire under you, sparking dreams of conquering the Leadville 100. A word to the wise: pump the brakes on that thought. The odds are stacked against newcomers hoping to snag a spot. But fear not! The Butte 100 is your silver lining, offering a challenging yet rewarding alternative with its bounty of single track — a course that veterans whisper is a tougher nut to crack than Leadville.

For those itching to be part of the action, the movie night at the Roxy is the place to be. Snag your tickets at the pre-party hosted by Big Sky Bikes in their swanky new location. But hurry – word on the street is tickets are flying faster than a cyclist down a hill.

In essence, this chapter of my 2009 photo saga, peppered with the excitement of the World Solo Championships and the allure of mountain biking tales, serves as a reminder of the adventures and stories that lie waiting in the great outdoors. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community, challenge, and the pursuit of passion. So, lace up your adventure boots, folks – there’s a whole world out there just waiting to be explored.

“I don’t know, I am spitting up blood and have asthma …”

— Rebecca Rush 2014