While adult teams tackled mud, steep climbs, and slippery tree roots in the 24 Hours of Snowshoe endurance race, kids were presented with their own mountain bike race: the 24 Minutes of Snowshoe.

After some uncertainty over a light rain, the race began shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 28. Really young riders made a loop around a small track, while older riders competed in a slightly longer loop. Several races in different age and gender classes were held, although no race took more than a couple of minutes, leading to much cheering and excitement from camera-wielding adults.

Photos from the race follow.

There’s a lot of interesting things going on in this photo - note the dog in the corner playing tug-of-war on his leash, oblivious or unconcerned by the small matter of the ongoing race.

Racers get their own Le Mans-style start, running to their bikes. Queue the Chariots of Fire soundtrack.

The youngest riders quickly gave up trying to ride their bikes, and it became a push for the finish. They’re in good company: most adult riders chose to walk through particularly challenging parts of their 7-mile course, too.

Winners take the podium. Every participant received a keepsake frisbee and/or t-shirt.

View additional DCSki coverage of the 2003 24 Hours of Snowshoe and photos in the following sections: