For me, the last day of the Break Epic was a fun filled race with lots of great people and some really awesome trails. I got to the start line a bit tired, but ready to give it my best and finish strong. I achieved these goals whole heartedly. The start was quiet again since the UCI elite rode out before the rest of the racers. I remember climbing the first hill happily, listening to the forest around me. As the USAC pro/cat 1 men came past me, I enjoyed watching all of them

It’s not every day that you get to take your bike over 12,500 feet. Today’s race was all about expansive views, rocky descents and lots of walking.... LOTS of walking.  I thought that I would start the day situated in the middle of the pack. The start times for every individual today were based off of their finishing time on stage four. My time for yesterday’s race wasn’t very fast, and I figured I didn’t belong at the front. I started to warm up when I heard that all UCI ri

Today’s race was forty one miles chocked full of long strenuous climbs, flowing single track and streams galore. I had a bit of a rough day, but held in there finishing with a smile. For any individual who has not experienced mountain bike racing, especially a stage race, this blog is for you. My alarm sounds at 6:20 a.m., but I’ve been up for at least thirty minutes. Each morning, hunger and the inevitable fast metabolism brought on by repeated strenuous activity, act as a

Today was a day full of sunshine and smiles from me. I didn’t listen too much to the negative thoughts that flew through my brain in the beginning of the race. I kept my pace, enjoyed the views, and most of all enjoyed the company. I have learned a lot already out there as I pedal my legs continuously. And, thanks to a suggestion from a friend (thanks, Rebecca!), I want to share some of those lessons in today’s blog. Lesson #1 : Always check that your cleat bolts are tigh

To begin, I felt way better today. Radiant sunshine, stupendous trails, and great company got me through. Unfortunately, my feelings were still not enough to make up time against my competition. The day’s race took part on a section of the Colorado Trail. I couldn’t help looking down at my bike with nostalgia. Last year, my bike frame was weighted down by all my camping gear and food, causing me to walk a few of the sections I rode today. I reflected on how comfortable and

I’m reminded of a mountaineering proverb that I once read, “It doesn’t have to be fun, to be fun.” This statement definitely sums up today’s race. Slick mud, rocks and roots were the companions of the day as myself and about five hundred mountain bikers fought hard to finish the first of the six day Breck Epic. I came into this race with few expectations. I am more fit, more experienced and, over these past two years, I have gained a sense of community and belonging. I love