Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 118: Iceman Pass Count and Wave Data Deep Dive with Ben Snyder and Stephen Spry

Overview:

In this episode, Trevor connects with Ben Snyder and Steven Spray to discuss their unique contribution to the post-race experience of the Iceman Cometh Challenge. Since 2019, the duo has analyzed race results to provide detailed insights for every rider, moving beyond standard podiums to reveal the "race within the race" through a project often referred to as "Passicity". The discussion covers the origins of their project born from "FOMO," the manual and technical challenges of compiling the data, and how their specific metrics add substance and excitement to the post-race debrief for thousands of participants.

This episode highlights how a passion project turned into an essential part of the Iceman tradition, offering riders a way to quantify their personal achievements regardless of their starting wave. By calculating passes and visualizing wave dynamics, Ben and Steven have created a platform that validates the effort of mid-pack riders and keeps the excitement alive long after the race finishes. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the community spirit of the event, encouraging support for local cycling organizations rather than seeking personal monetary gain for their work.