History & Weather

History: The Old Man Winter Rally evolved from winter training rides that the event founder, Josh Kravetz, used to do with his buddies in Austin. They called it the “600 Minute Ride” and they would gear up for a long adventure into the Texas hill country in the middle of winter. When Josh moved to Boulder, he fell in love with Colorado winter riding and wanted to create a Colorado winter adventure ride that shared the camaraderie of the TX ride. Bringing the vibe of the 600 Minute Ride meant creating an event where you ‘rally’ together with your friends for an adventure, no matter what the weather. It’s an excuse to get out and play on a wintry afternoon rather than hanging out on the couch looking at your phone. You could be wearing snow boots and ski googles, or maybe shorts and a t-shirt. It really doesn’t matter. Old Man Winter Rally has always been about wintry fun with friends.

After the first year’s success, a 10K run was added into the mix, and a 5K and combo soon followed. Josh also wanted to make sure everyone could celebrate their epic winter adventure, so the after party has always been a priority. As the Old Man Winter Bike Rally continues to grow, we always strive to add events, courses, and celebrations that make it a welcoming event for all.

Weather: Every year, the weather has been a defining characteristic of the event. The first year wasn’t very wintry at all with temps in the 60s and riders in shorts. Some years there’s snow. Some years there’s mud. Whatever Old Man Winter sends our way on race day we will be ready. Lacing up your shoes or clipping into your pedals on a winter day takes grit, bravery, and commitment. One thing is for sure, Old Man Winter will provide life-long memories and stories to tell your grandchildren!

Statistically, early February weather in Boulder County, Colorado averages to be 45° with sunny skies

2005: 67° windy

Our first OMW saw riders in shorts and sunbathing at the after party. In this shot, Grand Tour Champion, Sep Kuss, lead the race up until the very end when a tough headwind wore him down and he was passed by a group of pro MTBers/

2018: 45° sunny

This was a beautiful day on out on the run and bike courses. There was fresh snow on the trees, but the sun was out and the temps were crisp. Statistically speaking, this is the average weather for this time of year.

2020: 30° snow

An unforecasted snow storm dropped 8” of snow on the course, causing a mid-race cancellation to allow plows to clear the roads. Runners were treated to a cushy day on the 10K course. Of course, the after party was rockin’ as usual

2024: 40° MUD

The day before, we saw 10” of wet snow cover the roads close to Boulder, but Lyons only got a couple inches. This made for a beautiful day on the run courses and one of the most epic days we’ve every seen at OMW on the bike courses. Riders came home looking like clay statues with ear to ear smiles.