Click on the fliers to view blown up versions. Rolling Thunder is cyclocross Montana style. It attracts the best racers Montana has to offer. The mood is set by live announcing and jamming music. The course treats spectators with non stop action as racers power through the spooky forest, whoops section and pain cave area. Night time falls and the race keeps chugging as the men's elite brings in the drama. The race has been won two years in a row by NMBS endurance specialist and Flathead Valley local Clint Muhlfeld. It's a place for young guns to show off their stuff and veterans to prove they've still got it. Last year the crowd was treated to an epic duel of two cross animals. Local hard man Doug Shryock gave Muhlfeld all he could handle. In the end Muhlfeld powered away using years of riding experience and an engine that doesn't quit. Who will continue the Rolling Thunder legend? Will it be Missoula native and Subaru Gary Fisher rider Sam Schultz? Or will a new young gun spoil the party. Also in the race this year is defending Montana State Cyclocross Champion Frank Gonzalez and Montana's best all around rider John Curry. Men's first prize this year is a brand new Felt F35x Complete Cyclocross bike donated by Great Northern Cycles . The women's race which was won by Bozeman's Lisa Curry is always a treat. It showcases the finest Montana ladies putting the power down on the technical Thunder course. This year the stakes are higher as the 1st place lady takes home a brand new Kona Major Jake Frame and Fork donated by Missoula Bicycle Works Don't forget about Montana's talented masters. Montana has some of the most underrated masters in the country. Names like Chance Cooke, John Fiore, John Wehyrich, and Tom Sullivan will be laying the pain down. New this year is the Beginner/Junior race. This will allow newcomers to get used to the sport of cyclocross. Whether you come out on your mountain bike or your dad's old Schwinn everyone is welcome. If your a fan of sports then you'll be a fan of Rolling Thunder. Come and check out the action October 18th at American Legion Field. -Shaun Radley
