war stories at the end of the stage.

(Liam Doran)

"That descent was so steep!"

(Liam Doran)

After yesterday's long effort, day five was shorter, but the opening climb lasted eight miles with at least two sections of hike-a-bike. The strongest riders were expected to attack on the switchbacks at nearly 12,000 feet.

Today began at the base of the ski area on a dirt road. However, the course quickly diverted left and crossed onto narrow, root-strewn singletrack, after crossing a wooden bridge. After last night's rain, the wood was wet, as hole-shot winner, Carl Decker quickly learned. He attacked early, but slipped at the edge of the bridge, knocking himself off his bike, where he laughed as nearly 10 riders passed.

Ben Sonntag (Stan's NoTubes) wanted to string the field out early totry to gain an advantage. He led the pack for a while, but his legs just didn't comply. After spending most of the summer in Europe, the altitude has been taking its toll on him this week.

Alex Grant (Sho-Air Cannondale) took over the lead and was the first to crest the top of Wheeler trail, where he used his descending skills to stay in the lead, nearly a minute in front of Joan Llordella (Buff Pro Team) at the bottom of the singletrack.

By the end of the race, Grant finished nearly three minutes ahead of Llordella. Sonntag still held on for third, while Bryan Dillon finished in fourth place for the day. Justin Lindine finished fifth and Decker had his best day yet, finishing in sixth.

In the overall,