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Race Recap: Leadville Trail 100 MTB
Strafe Outerwear's co-founder, John Gaston, delivered an extraordinary performance at the 2024 Leadville Trail 100 MTB. For the third year in a row, John secured a podium position, this year claiming 2nd place in one of the most prestigious endurance mountain bike races in the world. As a professional skimo racer for Team USA and self-proclaimed “part-time MTB enthusiast,” Gaston’s versatility was on full display as he tackled the 100-mile course with over 12,000 feet of elevation gain, including the grueling climb to the summit of Columbine Mine topping out over 12,600 feet.
Rolling out of the start in front. Credit @lifetimegrandprix @chaseincolor
Starting the race strong, Gaston couldn't resist joining the early surge with Keegan Swenson and Lachlan Morton. But, after these two were taken out by untimely flats, John was left alone for several hours, “Race brain overrode all logic and I couldn’t help but follow Keegan’s ridiculous first move... Pure survival mode to the finish line.” Despite burning through his energy reserves, Gaston held on to second place from the bottom of Columbine, battling with Cole Paton on the back half of the race, ultimately crossing the finish line 15 mins behind Swenson.
The third podium in three years at the Leadville 100 MTB, Gaston’s performances have earned him recognition and respect at this prestigious race. Skimo remains Gaston's ultimate focus, especially with the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, but don't be surprised to see him at more start lines on the bike.
Turning on the gas. Credit @lifetimegrandprix @chaseincolor
Descending Columbine in 2nd place. Credit @lifetimegrandprix @chaseincolor
