Grindstone 2026

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Distance: 21K, 50K
Photographer: Forrest Smith
Athletes: Drew Bell, Bit Klecker, Ben Morrow, Grant Sheely
Words: Ben Morrow

Between sudden rainstorms and the weight of returning to work and school, the end of summer came heavy and ominous in the city. The team fled to the Virginia countryside on a dreary weekend in September to squeeze one more weekend race out of summer that felt too short to process. But, the rain and humidity followed them into the woods making for a tough but satisfying battle on the dirt. Emerging with two trophies in hand, the sun finally broke through and cast harshly about the finish line area. After a long wait for the podium ceremony, the team walked warily to the cool sanctuary of the car, ready to surrender to the turning of the seasons now that the sun felt less welcoming. A long drive back to the cabin, some Cookout trays, and a twitchy nap, then the team rose and conversation quickly turned to the racing calendar for the following year. The excitement of the next trail season and the blessing of a weekend with friendly teammates couldn’t make next summer come soon enough.