Ned Overend Summits Mt. Washington

August 23rd, 2006 - Morgan Hill, CA - At 51 years old, Ned Overend only
seems to keep getting better. "Retired" from full-time professional racing
for about a decade, the former mountain bike and XTERRA triathlon world
champion still likes the taste of competition, choosing to stretch his legs
at the mythical Mt. Washington Hill Climb in New Hampshire. In typically
foggy and windy conditions, only one rider could best Ned, and that was
Tyler Hamilton.



Ned was the only rider who was capable of challenging Hamilton, finishing
about two minutes off of the controversial and suspended former Phonak
rider's time. "I was trying to keep Tyler in sight," said Overend. "I had
to make my own pace based on the gearing I chose." The steady 12 percent
pitches forced the riders to spin most of the climb in gears often seen on
mountain bikes. Ned figured half the climb's distance was covered in his 36
x 29T bottom gear.



Overend credits some of his continued success to healthy living, smart
riding, and advances in bike and equipment technology. "My S-Works Tarmac SL
with integrated carbon cranks is light, and super efficient. In a relatively
short race like that, a light weight setup makes a big difference",
commented Ned.





Ned is optimistic about his continued success. "Fourth here last year, second this year, at this rate, I ought to win this thing before I turn 55,"
he mused.




We certainly wouldn't bet against him.