Nico Konecny, the 2024 Firecracker 50 champion, has been racing bikes for as long as he can remember. He got into the sport thanks to his dad, who inspired him by racing iconic events like the Leadville 100, the Firecracker 50, and the Breck Epic. Nico began his own journey in the Junior Series here in Summit County and was racing nationally by the time he was 10 or 11.

Last year marked his first time taking on the full 50 miles solo at the Firecracker 50—just a little after suffering a serious accident that had taken him off the bike. He saw the race as a test, a way to see where he stood physically and mentally after his recovery. “There were a lot of strong competitors out there,” he said, “and it was a great day to race.”

For Nico, the Firecracker 50 holds a special place in his heart. “It’s on the Fourth of July, it’s part of the culture in Breckenridge, and it’s my home course. That makes it really meaningful.” He’s raced the Firecracker three or four times now—first on a team with a friend, and later in a memorable duo with his dad. Reflecting on his first race, he remembers just hoping to finish the 25-mile leg. Now, he’s chasing podiums.

What keeps him coming back? “It’s the people. Everyone is happy and celebrating. The energy surrounding the event is incredible, and it’s something I look forward to every year.”

When asked what advice he’d give to someone looking to get into mountain biking or thinking about signing up for the Firecracker 50, Nico keeps it simple: “Just go ride your bike. The places it will take you are incredible—I’ve been shocked and amazed by where my bike has brought me.”

He entered the 2024 Firecracker with no expectations, just a desire to get back out there—and ended up with the highlight of his season. “It’s a hometown race on trails I know and love. That made the win even sweeter.”