Man, I love the fenders...keep it and build a second off-road machine!
Welcome to "the club"!
PS. Mountain Bikes with full suspension will require a rack-mount...something to consider. I personally feel better with the center of gravity as close to the ground as possible...so I'm putting a springer fork on the front, and using a spring seat post and a big soft springy seat, and then I'll be a happy camper.