Grass Valley delivered everything this year.
At the TDS event, conditions ran the full spectrum—dry and fast in the sun, slick and technical in the mud, and just enough rain to keep riders on their toes. It was the kind of weekend that tested not just fitness, but adaptability and all around skill.
And it brought out a crowd like we’ve never seen. Big thanks to the Sanchez family for putting on such a fabulous event for the past 12 years!
Stages That Had It All
From the start, the stages demanded attention. Riders faced changing terrain throughout the day—sections that were fast and flowing quickly turned into muddy, unpredictable stretches as the weather shifted from Saturday to Sunday.
It was a true all-conditions race:
- Dry, dusty climbs on one day
- Slick, rocky, technical descents
- Rain-soaked muddy sections that kept everyone honest the next day
The kind of riding where equipment matters—and so does experience.
A Crowd Like No Other
What stood out just as much as the racing was the energy around it.
The spectator turnout was massive. Fans lined the course, packed into key sections, and brought a level of excitement that elevated the entire event. From start to finish, riders were met with cheers, encouragement, and a level of stoke that made it feel bigger than ever.
It’s a sign of how strong the community is—and how much events like this continue to grow.
Marco Osborne Takes the Win
At the front of it all was Marco Osborne.
Riding with control and confidence through constantly changing conditions, Marco put together a performance that stood out from the start. It was within seconds of third and second place with all 11 stages. Where others hesitated, he committed—carrying speed through technical sections and staying smooth as the course evolved.
It wasn’t just fast—it was composed and calculated.
And when it mattered, he delivered.
Racing in Real Conditions
This wasn’t a perfect-weather race—and that’s what made it better.
The mix of sun, mud, and rain created a course that rewarded riders who could adapt, read the terrain, and trust their setup. It was a reminder that some of the best racing happens when conditions aren’t predictable.
Why It Matters
Events like TDS in Grass Valley highlight what makes mountain biking special:
- Challenging terrain
- Unpredictable conditions
- A strong, passionate community of spectators
Looking Ahead
From the biggest crowd we’ve seen to a standout performance from Marco, this year’s TDS event was one to remember.
Grass Valley showed up. The riders delivered. And the conditions made it unforgettable.
We’ll be thinking about this one for a while. Now time for some sleep.
