When most kids were still learning how to ride a bike, Freshman Thomas Krewet was mountain biking with his dad at the age of 6. It’s more than a sport for him, it’s a father-son tradition.
“In the early days there was a lot of waiting on my end and patience.” Thomas’s dad Jim Krewet said. “We’re about to the point where he’s waiting on me and that’s awesome to see.”
Thomas and his dad take yearly trips to Arkansas where they work, ride bikes, and bond.
“Every time we get to go to Arkansas it’s a treat.” Jim Krewet said. “We get to do that together not just faster but a lot farther.”
Thomas started racing competitively in 6th grade with the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) which has programs in 30 states. He has competed in three events this year placing in first twice and second once. Mountain Biking isn’t just about speed, it also requires dedication, focus, endurance, split second decision making, and nutrition planning.
“It’s one of those things where you just react,” Thomas said. “I’ve been doing it my whole life.”
The BT epic mountain bike race is a major race in Missouri with well over 400 participants last year. The race takes place in Steelville, Missouri on multiple trails spanning over 50 miles.
“He’s really dedicated himself to the sport. You know it’s difficult, the kids who are competing at a high level are pushing themselves really hard,” Jim Krewet said. “There’s a huge commitment there. Having a plan and sticking to it takes a lot of time.”
Thomas is participating in the BT Epic trail race this year on Saturday, Oct. 18. Last year he placed 159th out of 423 as the youngest participant in the male division competing against pros, middle aged men, and some high school students. It took him 5 hours 40 minutes and 26 seconds putting him well above many of the other competitors and just behind a pro with a time of 5 hours 3 minutes and 19 seconds.
“I’ve been training for a while,” Thomas said. “I’m trying to finish in under 5 hours.”
There are many local trails that offer both areas for beginners and more challenging areas for competitive bikers. Thomas spends around 10 hours a week training on trails like Grants Trail, Bluff View, and Chubb trail.
“It’s fun,” Thomas said. “I like the thrill.”
Thomas currently races with the Mid County composite team but with enough interest De Smet could have their own team.
“It’d be cool to have a team,” Thomas said. “It would be more fun racing for De Smet.”
