Zach Adams Catches Fat Bike Air

Zach Adams catches air on the course.

The Deep Creek Adventure Bureau (DCAB), a local event production and promotion company specializing in races, rides, runs, and fundraisers, successfully held its third annual winter fat tire bike event series.

This race, the fourth event in the first annual Highlands Fat Tire Series, took place at Herrington Manor State Park and Garrett State Forest on February 24, 2023. Competitors across various categories faced off on a challenging mix of gravel, singletrack, and snowmobile trails amid heavy snowfall. Susan Haywood, Zachary Adams, and Sean Smith triumphed in their respective divisions.

A diverse age group and skill levels underscored the event’s inclusive atmosphere, welcoming everyone from seasoned pros to newcomers to the sport. The race, which drew participants and spectators from Maryland, Ohio, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, showcased the amazing local trails and amenities in Oakland.

A rider - Sue Haywood - enjoys the winter scenery at Herrington Manor State Park

A snowy day at beautiful Herrington Manor State Park.

Women’s Open Results:

  • Susan Haywood from Blackwater Bikes led the pack with a time of 1:19:23.8.
  • Julia Kastner of Joey’s Bike Shop finished strong at 1:28:09.4.
  • Victoria Weeks representing The Victory Lap rounded out the top three with 1:31:44.3.

Men’s Open Results:

  • Zachary Adams dominated the course, finishing with an impressive time of 1:03:45.7.
  • Brian Kelly secured the second spot, crossing the finish line at 1:07:41.6.
  • Nathan Aldridge rounded out the top three with a time of 1:09:10.2.

Masters Open Results:

  • Sean Smith, representing JB’s Bike Shop Racing, clinched first place with a time of 1:07:16.6.
  • Anthony Kramer of 814 Outdoor Sports was hot on his heels, finishing at 1:07:25.0.
  • Greg Sampson completed the third-place podium, finishing in 1:12:20.9.
Mary Giordano Smiles at the Finish

New rider Mary Giordano is all smiles.

Sponsored by High Mountain Sports, Vagabond Taproom, Fox’s Pizza Den – Oakland, Trail Labs WV, and Highlands Outdoors, the race garnered strong community and business support.

Event coordinator Sarah Myers reflected on the race’s impact: “This year’s Herrington Manor Fat Tire Bike Race was a remarkable display of friendship, skill, and sportsmanship. We’re honored to host an event that not only spotlights fat tire biking but also unites our community in such a significant way.”

For more detailed results, highlights, and information about next year’s Highlands Fat Tire Series, please visit https://dcabfun.com/winter-fat-biking/ or https://highlandsfatbikeseries.com/.