Bikepacker in the Hall of Fame?

Mike Curiak, bikepacking on the CDT

How many bikepackers are there in the MTB Hall of Fame?. I don't know for sure, but I'd guess none. Want to change that? One of the true pioneers of the sport is up for nomination, our own Mike Curiak:

http://www.completesite.com/mbhof/page.cfm?pageid=7&categoryid=6&memberid=210

Mike's nominated in the 'racing history' category, and his racing history speaks for itself (Iditarod records/wins, Great Divide Race, etc). As in many sports, competition drives the technology, the definitions and perhaps most importantly, the inspiration. Bikepacking is no exception here. Racing may not be the most important component of the bikepacking experience, but it has created a wealth of routes, pushed the boundaries of ultralight (who can forget Mike's seemingly impossibly light 2004 GDR setup?) and inspired many bikepacker through photos and writeups.

I may be preaching to the choir here, but Mike has led the way here, and we owe much of where we currently are to his example and many exploits. As it says in his nomination:

Mike set up a framework for grassroots self-supported racing that has been successfully applied to events ranging from 50 to 2,700 miles, specifically dealing with the unique challenges nonstop multi-day events present. Mike has always stressed a self-supported ethic and in that style has promoted the discovery, riding and mapping of numerous ultra light bike packing/racing routes.

So, let's vote him in! If you're already a member, vote! Voting privileges cost $20, and you can sign up here:

http://www.completesite.com/mbhof/page.cfm?pageid=9

Time is of the essence, though. Ballots are due by July 22nd, and you need to allow time to get your ballot mailed to you and mailed back. Or you can do what I did and include my votes (one per category, Mike is in the racing history category) with your membership form.

Thanks.