PROVO, Utah (August 25, 2025) — The inaugural Connected Communities Summit is an event hosted by Move Utah, Bike Utah and Get Healthy Utah. It combines the partners’ past annual events into a premier two-day Summit that brings together over 600 subject-matter experts across Utah, including planners, health practitioners, advocates, engineers, industry advocates, community leaders and policy makers.
As the only event of its kind, the Connected Communities Summit promotes multi-sector collaboration that produces actionable solutions to real-world challenges related to health, transportation, and land use in Utah. Building on the partners’ past successful events, the Connected Communities Summit offers renowned keynote speakers, dozens of compelling breakout sessions, eight interactive workshops that seek to solve real-world challenges in Utah communities, five exclusive mobile tours, and so much more!
Keynote speakers will be Chris Danley and Mark Fenton.
Chris Danley is a Healthy Built Environment Planner, Principal/Owner Vitruvian Planning, Boise Planning & Zoning Commissioner. Mark Fenton is Former editor-at-large of WALKING Magazine; host of the PBS special, Walk to a Better Life; and now host of the new PBS series, America’s Walking.
A key session will be: “Do Your Words Resonate?: Effective Communication for Active Transportation,” where Ted Knowlton delves into the crucial role that message framing plays in community engagement. By leveraging Values Research, Ted will illustrate how aligning transportation initiatives with fundamental human values like safety and security can significantly motivate action. This session is particularly relevant for local communities and transportation professionals, as it offers practical insights on crafting messages that resonate deeply with audiences, ultimately driving more effective and impactful communication strategies in both formal and informal contexts.
One of the highlights will be Riding Ready: The Basics of Bike Repair, Maintenance, Fitting, and Safety,” an interactive session led by experts from Bike Utah and the Bicycle Collective.
The Summit will be held at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, Utah from Wednesday, September 18 through Thursday, September 19, 2024. A bike valet will be available. Register now to secure your place and contribute to building active, healthy and connected Utah communities. Visit bit.ly/ConnectedCommunities24 to learn more.
The UCI Mountain Bike World Championships will take place in Pal Arinsal, Andorra on August 28 – September 1.
PAL ARINSAL, Andorra (July 21, 2024) – The 2024 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships are headed to Pal Arinsal, Andorra where riders will compete in Cross-Country Olympic (XCO), Short Track (XCC), Downhill (DHI), and E-MTB Cross-Country. Team USA is looking strong after a successful season at the Olympics and on the World Cup circuit.
Haley Batten winning the elite women’s gold medal at the 2024 Utah Pan Am Mountain Bike Championships at Soldier Hollow, Utah. Photo by Dave Iltis
On the XCO side, 20 riders will compete across the elite, under-23, and junior categories. Haley Batten (Park City, Utah; Specialized Factory Racing) is fresh off of winning a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, as well as Savilia Blunk’s (Inverness, Calif.; Decathlon Ford Racing Team) 12th place finish. Riley Amos (Durango, Colo.; Trek Factory Racing) had nothing to lose in Paris racing with the elites. He rode to the USA’s best male finish – 7th place. Christopher Blevins (Durango, Colo.; Specialized Factory Racing) finished in the top 15.
Kate Courtney took the silver medal at the 2024 Utah Pan Am Mountain Bike Championships at Soldier Hollow, Utah. Photo by Dave IltisChristopher Blevins on his way to winning the elite men’s gold medal at the 2024 Utah Pan Am Mountain Bike Championships at Soldier Hollow, Utah. Photo by Dave Iltis
For the downhill riders, the American team has never been better. Podium hunters Dakotah Norton (Clinton, Tenn.; Mondraker Factory Racing) and Luca Shaw (Pisgah Forest, N.C.; Canyon Collective) are both sitting top ten in the World Cup overall standings after they both landed on three podiums each this season. Anna Newkirk (Riehen, Switzerland; Beyond Racing MTB) found her speed this year landing on her first-ever elite World Cup podium taking second in Leogang earlier this year. Junior rider Asa Vermette (Durango, Colo.; Frameworks Racing) has taken his first year of World cup racing by storm. He won three out of the five Junior Men’s World Cups and is currently leading the overall standings.
The Team USA roster is as follows:
Cross Country
Elite Women
Haley Batten (Park City, Utah; Specialized Factory Racing)
Savilia Blunk (Inverness, Calif.; Decathlon Ford Racing Team)
Kate Courtney (Kentfield, Calif.; SCOTT-SRAM Factory Racing)
Gwendalyn Gibson (Ramona, Calif.; Trek Factory Racing)
Kelsey Urban (Kentfield, Calif.; Team 31)
Elite Men
Christopher Blevins (Durango, Colo.; Specialized Factory Racing)
Riley Amos (Durango, Colo.; Trek Factory Racing)
Carson Hampton (Boise, Idaho; Bear National Team)
Brayden Johnson (Littleton, Colo.; Santa Cruz Rock Shox)
Bjorn Riley (Boulder, Colo.; Trek Future Racing)
Junior Women
Alice Hoskins (Charlottesville, Va.; Gravity Collective)
Vida Lopez de San Roman (Sebastopol, Calif.; Bear National Team)
Ingrid McElroy (Danville, Pa.; Bear National Team)
Junior Men
Ezra Caudell (Acworth, Ga.; Gravity Collective)
Henry Coote (Manchester, Mass.; Bear National Team)
Nicholas Konecny (Breckenridge, Colo.; Bear National Team)
Luke Mosteller (Tunnell Hill, Ga.; Bear National Team)
River Valdez (Sedona, Ariz.; Bear National Team)
VIRGIN, Utah (August 21, 2024) – Eighteen of the top male freeride athletes have been invited to the 2024 Red Bull Rampage, the world’s premier big-mountain freeride competition. Part of a brand-new two-day format, the men’s contest will return on Saturday, Oct. 12th following the women’s event two days beforehand. Returning to Virgin, Utah, the athletes will attempt to tame the jagged ridgelines and steep cliffs of the unforgiving Southwestern Utah desert to determine the best in the sport.
Jaxson Riddle competes at Red Bull Rampage in Virgin, UT, USA, on Oct 12, 2023 // Long Nguyen / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310140063 // Usage for editorial use only //
“Red Bull Rampage will always be the ultimate event for me as it pushes beyond what you think you’re capable of both physically and mentally,” said 2023 Red Bull Rampage third-place finisher Carson Storch. “This terrain and event will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I’m looking forward to returning to Utah for my tenth Rampage and putting together my dream run.”
Cam Zink perfoms at Red Bull Rampage in Virgin, Utah, USA on 11 October, 2023 // Bartek Wolinski / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310140034 // Usage for editorial use only //
The top eight riders from the 2023 competition were automatically pre-qualified for this year’s event, while the other 10 wildcards and 5 alternates were selected by a committee of former Red Bull Rampage competitors, pro athletes, judges, and industry experts based on competition results, video submissions, and overall ability. Four former winners and two event rookies are among those set to compete, including a return by four-time Rampage winner and fan favourite Brandon Semenuk, bringing a diverse mix of skills, disciplines, and riding styles to this year’s contest.
Carson Storch backs flips at Red Bull Rampage in Virgin, Utah, USA on 13 October, 2023. // Christian Pondella / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310140030 // Usage for editorial use only //
The inaugural Red Bull Rampage was held in 2001, and since then, 17 different events and 9 different winners have earmarked their place in the history books. Only time will tell which rider will add their name to the history books.
2024 Red Bull Rampage Men’s Roster
Pre-Qualified Athletes
Cam Zink (USA)
Tom Van Steenbergen (CAN)
Carson Storch (USA)
Brendan Fairclough (GBR)
Talus Turk (USA)
Kyle Strait (USA)
Emil Johansson (SWE)
Bienvenido Aguado Alba (ESP)
Wildcard Athletes
Adolf Silva (ESP)
Brandon Semenuk (CAN)
Clemens Kaudela (AUT)
Kurt Sorge (CAN)
Luke Whitlock (USA)
Reed Boggs (USA)
Szymon Godziek (POL)
Thomas Genon (BEL)
Tom Isted (GBR)
Tyler McCaul (USA)
Alternates
Ethan Nell (USA)
DJ Brandt (USA)
Jaxson Riddle (USA)
Hayden Zablotny (USA)
Dylan Stark (USA)
To stay updated on the latest Red Bull Rampage information including venue and competition details, broadcast details and tune-in information, as well as spectator and ticketing info, follow @RedBullBike and visit the event website here.
WATERLOO, Wisconsin (August 22, 2024) — Today, Trek announced an all-new off-road series in Texas, which will kick off this fall with a three-race slate.
The Texas Off-Road Series (TORS) will follow a similar format to the Wisconsin Off-Road Series (WORS), which is one of the best-attended collection of mountain bike events in the country.
The Texas series will center around the Houston and Austin markets, with cross-country, short track, and time trial racing formats and family-friendly festivities throughout the weekend, including live music, food trucks, camping, and more.
The excitement will begin with an inaugural race at Bluff Creek Ranch in Warda on October 19 – 20. Then, TORS will head to the Austin Area for a race in Spider Mountain from November 23 – 24, and round off the season with a stop at Brazos Park in Sugarland on December 7 – 8.
TORS will offer racing for riders of all abilities, with a focus on bringing new riders into the sport with free beginner races, women’s-only racing categories, and discounted youth pricing.
“This is mountain bike racing at its best with fun, festive, community-oriented events,” says Event Manager Marcus Warrington. “We’re so excited to help grow the MTB scene in Central Texas and beyond.”
Stay up to date on all the series’ details about TORS here.
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (August 22, 2024) — Cranky’s Bike Shop, a mainstay in the Salt Lake City bicycle community, announced in a statement that they will be closing on September 7, 2024. Started by Cris Pereira in 2014, the shop’s original location was on 1300 East by the University of Utah before moving to their current location at 150 East 800 South. The building sold recently, but the business has not.
The shop is liquidating its inventory with sale prices of 40-70% off of everything. Cranky’s will be donating a portion of the sales to charity. Additionally, Cris plans on opening a wildlife sanctuary in Costa Rica. To reach the shop, stop in or see: https://www.crankysutah.com/
Cranky’s Bike Shop will be closing on September 7, 2024. The shop was started in 2014 by Cris Pereira (pictured here). Photo by Dave Iltis
Cris’s statement is below:
Dear Valued Customers and Friends,
With a mix of emotions, I announce the closure of Cranky’s, our cherished bicycle shop. Over the years, Cranky’s has been more than a business—it’s been a community hub, a place of shared passions, and a second home for many of us.
This decision has been difficult. We’ve celebrated triumphs and faced challenges together, but as life evolves, so must I. It’s time for me to start a new chapter that aligns with my evolving passions. Thus, I have decided to retire and close Cranky’s. This business has been a significant part of my life, and saying goodbye is bittersweet.
Despite my sadness, I’m filled with gratitude for the support you’ve shown. Your patronage and friendship have enriched my life immensely. Thank you for being part of the Cranky’s family.
I am incredibly excited to share that the proceeds from the closure of Cranky’s will be dedicated to a cause very close to my heart: As many of you might know, nature, animals and conservation is a big part of my life. I firmly believe in the importance of preserving our natural world, and I am committed to making a tangible difference. With your support, I will be investing in a nature preserve aimed at protecting and restoring critical habitats.
Additionally, I’m happy to announce that I will also be building an animal sanctuary dedicated to providing a safe haven for vulnerable animals. This sanctuary will not only offer care and rehabilitation but also serve as an educational resource, promoting compassion towards all living beings.
While I’ll miss our daily interactions at the shop, I’m eager about the future. I invite you to follow our conservation efforts and perhaps join us in supporting these causes through volunteering, donations, or advocacy.
Effective immediately, we’re beginning the process of winding down operations. To facilitate this transition, we’re offering substantial discounts on all remaining inventory (EVERYTHING MUST GO). This is a chance to acquire bikes, accessories, and gear you’ve come to trust, at unbeatable prices.
Please help us spread the word about our closing sale. Your support in sharing this news with friends, family, and fellow cyclists would mean a lot. Every referral helps ensure our remaining inventory finds new homes, and the proceeds contribute to protecting our environment.
DURANGO, Colorado (August 14, 2024) — The growing popularity of gravel racing has begun to overshadow traditional mountain bike races across North America. However, the Durango Derby is preserving the spirit of mountain biking with top-tier professional competition. This event is not limited to elite racers; it also offers a fun and challenging experience for riders of all levels. The race features a unique format with four exhilarating stages in a single day, showcasing Durango’s premier in-town singletrack.
Scenes from the 2023 Durango Derby. Photo courtesy Durango Derby
Race Details for the Pros
Professional and seasoned racers will compete in the solo division, tackling all four stages along with three untimed transfers, covering a total of 40 miles with 5,500 feet of climbing and descending. Pro racers will compete not only for the prestige of claiming a place in Durango’s MTB history but also for a cash prize, thanks to the event’s generous partners. The Durango Derby has already attracted top pro riders such as Payson McElveen, Sarah Sturm, Ellen Campbell, Howard Grotts, Ryan Standish, Evelyn Dong, and many more, ensuring a high level of competition.
Scenes from the 2023 Durango Derby. Photo courtesy Durango Derby
NEW for 2024: Downcountry Dominator Challenge
This year, the Durango Derby introduces the Downcountry Dominator challenge, an additional competition within the main event. This challenge offers riders the opportunity to test their downhill skills against competitors on four timed downhill segments, one on each of the four XC stages. The exact locations of these segments will remain undisclosed, requiring riders to stay sharp, go fast, and take risks to earn extra cash, prizes, and significant bragging rights.
Scenes from the 2023 Durango Derby. Photo courtesy Durango Derby
A Race for Everyone
While the Durango Derby is set to deliver top-tier elite MTB racing in Southwest Colorado, the event also emphasizes enjoyment. For those seeking a more relaxed approach, the race offers 2-person and 4-person team categories, allowing team members to relay through the four stages. Groups of friends can challenge each other, engage in friendly competition between households, or simply enjoy the camaraderie during the untimed transfers between stages, with the chance to interact with pro riders.
Scenes from the 2023 Durango Derby. Photo courtesy Durango Derby
Registration Still Open!
For those interested in a big day on the bike or some friendly competition among friends and family, registration remains open for all categories until the day before the race.
Scenes from the 2023 Durango Derby. Photo courtesy Durango Derby
Giving Back to the Community
A portion of each rider’s registration fee supports a good cause. Since its inception, the Durango Derby has prioritized supporting the regional cycling community. This year, 10% of total registration fees will be donated to local non-profits, including Durango Trails, Durango DEVO, FLC Cycling, and Silver Stallion. Additional opportunities to contribute are available on the event website.
The addition completes the Italian builder’s range of performance drop bar bikes in the series.
Four aces and a wild card – The C68 Rim Brake
The C series family of bikes represents the most diverse collection of performance drop bar frames in Colnago’s 70 year history. The C68 Rim Brake is positioned alongside the Road, Allroad, Ti and Gravel bikes that share the same C68 moniker.
Being part of the C68 family, the C68 Rim Brake is also a modular frame, entirely built in Italy, hand-assembled in Cambiago using the handcrafted process of the C series.
Colnago C68 Rim Brake – Photo courtesy Colnago
A treat for the rim brakes aficionados
Presenting a rim brakes bike in 2024 is a choice that could be perceived as “unconventional” considering the current trends in the market. Even more so because it is made by Colnago – the brand that first introduced hydraulic disc brakes on a road bikeback in 2013, before any of the big manufacturers: the model was Colnago C59 Disc.
This bike, however, was designed and put into production specifically for those cyclists still fond of the traditional rim brake system.
For these people it is now almost impossible to find a modern frame with traditional brakes. Colnago wants to be there for these dedicated and passionate cyclists and does so with its most prestigious bike: the C68.
C68 Rim Brake | revised frame and titanium dropouts
Various novelties have been introduced in the C68 platform to make it rim-brakes-ready.
The fork has been modified to host a direct mount, double-pivot brake system.
The seat stays have been structurally engineered to accept direct mount rim brakes.
The frame dropouts are 3D printed Titanium, a metal that perfectly bonds with carbon fiber without any risk of oxidation or damage of the structure.
Colnago C68 Rim Brake – Photo courtesy ColnagoColnago C68 Rim Brake – Photo courtesy Colnago
At the heart of the C68 family of frames lies the manner in which they are constructed. The compliant and responsive ride quality of the C68 comes from the multi-part, modular construction of the frame. Individual sections of the frame are engineered in both shape and carbon composition to serve a specific purpose. They are then expertly bonded together to create the final product. This purpose built method of frame construction combines the individual tube sections of the frame into a frame that is truly unique and 100% Colnago.
This feature allows us to customize the frame as much as possible, even for really small production lots. The rim brake version is possible thanks to this modular construction methodology.
A product for people with a sophisticated cycling culture.
The Colnago Rim Brake is a product born out of passion and love for cycling. It is a frame that transcends time and trends. Because of its special and niche nature, very few people will be able to boast of owning one.
Because the C68 is a handcrafted, handmade, modular product, it is possible to create frames like the C68 Rim Brake in an economically sustainable manner.
This is in line with the history of Colnago, which has always – in pursuit of the extraordinary – never been afraid to throw itself into almost tailor-made projects that are limited in numbers.
Groupset compatibility
C68 Rim Brake is compatible with direct-mount, dual-pivot calipers and provides clearance for 28c tires.
The C68 Rim brake is only compatible with electronic groupsets.
For instance, C68 Rim Brake is compatible with:
Campagnolo Super Record EPS Groupset 2×12 – Mechanical Rim Brakes
By Kelly McPherson — I grew up in Oregon. We moved around a lot, but most of my time was spent in the Portland area. One of our family’s favorite things to do was to go to the beach and so I spent many hours in a car driving from wherever we lived to Seaside, Lincoln City, Barview, Depot Bay or Florence. I never minded the trip. It was always beautiful, even if it was raining. There were many stops to local candy shops for copious amounts of saltwater taffy and sometimes a giant jawbreaker. I think my dad just wanted peace from his 4 rambunctious children and so he would give us the jawbreaker and tell us that we couldn’t speak until it was gone. My sister’s hard-as-rock jaw would smash it in pieces in a matter of minutes. Ironically, that sister is a dentist now.
As an adult, before my dad passed away, I discovered riding my bike to Lincoln City, Oregon from his house in West Salem, Oregon. It was about 70 miles of mostly country highway and gentle climbs summiting at about 780 feet above sea level. After a couple of years of doing this, I learned to carry a small string bag with me to pick up things I saw along the road. It was always interesting, and I picked up anything from small tools to gigantic pinecones or I would stop and pick up fresh peaches from a fruit stand in the middle of nowhere. Then my dad passed away during COVID and those trips stopped.
In November 2022, I caught Influenza, got better and then two weeks later caught COVID. The infections put my heart into a PVC (premature ventricular contraction) rhythm called bigeminy. I was on a heart monitor for the next month or so. I was having over 21,000 PVCs a day and my heart was resetting itself every other heartbeat. I had a catheter ablation in February 2023 to fix the arrhythmia, which was a huge success. I felt better than I had in years! Because I felt so much better, I decided that I wanted to ride the Oregon coast and so I started planning a trip from my mom’s house in Vancouver, WA to Astoria, OR down to Coos Bay, OR and then over to Crater Lake. It would be a beautiful 450 or so miles. I was going to love it!
Then in April 2023, as a result of the ablation, I got a pulmonary embolism and was put on blood thinners. Doctors wanted me to stop racing my bike. If I crashed, they said, I would likely die before the ambulance could get to me.
I had to decide whether or not to cancel my Oregon coast trip. The route was planned. The campsites were booked. Now what? I go, of course! So, in August 2023, I started from my mom’s house in Vancouver and made my way towards Seaside, Oregon.
In Oregon, it is best to plan for the unexpected. The spring weather had brought even more rain than usual and several roads that I had planned on riding from Vancouver to Astoria were washed out with giant mudslides. Fortunately, I found out about it before I left Vancouver and so I was able to come up with an alternate plan. My mom and I spent quite a bit of time looking at Google Maps and RideWithGPS trying to find a good route. When you head west from Vancouver, there is a road called Germantown Road. It is steep, narrow, and windy, but is the Google Maps recommended route. My mom did NOT want me riding that road, so we found an alternative. Unfortunately, when I got to that section of my route, I couldn’t find the alternative, so I headed up Germantown Road. I would definitely recommend Germantown Road, provided it is not during peak traffic times when it is bumper to bumper with traffic. I started up it at about 10AM, and while there was some traffic, it wasn’t heavy, and I felt perfectly safe even though there really aren’t any shoulders. It was beautiful! It was a great challenge that is only about 3 miles long. When I got to the top, Google Maps got confused about where I was supposed to be going and so I had to turn around and find the correct route. Streets in the backwoods of Oregon are not always labeled.
At the bottom of the hill, I ended up on a bike trail that took me almost to Hillsboro. I am not usually fond of bike trails as it is hard to know where you will end up. I did finally make it onto Highway 26 headed towards Seaside, OR. Yes, it’s a highway, but it has a great shoulder, and I was just fine riding it. It was gorgeous! The road from my dad’s to the beach tops out at 780 feet, but this highway had significantly more climbing with 4 peaks at 1600 feet. By the time I was done, I would have over 5200 feet of climbing in a little over 81 miles. Due to my health situation that year, my lungs had not fully recovered, and I had lost a lot of training. This was a tough ride for me. My husband had been working via Starlink at my mom’s house for the day. At 5PM, Utah time, he headed through the Portland rush hour traffic to catch up with me. I was really struggling and so let him pick me up just a few miles from my destination in Seaside, OR. I didn’t feel very good, and I started to worry that my decision to ride this, in my current condition, was a poor one. We camped in Seaside OR that night. It was beautiful! We had brought some e-bikes and so my husband and I rode to the beach to watch the sunset and to explore the town a little.
Coast Range Summit. Photo by Kelly McPherson
After some discussion with my husband, and some soul searching, we decided to limit my miles on this ride. I would plan to do no more than 50 miles a day. In the morning, I would leave at the right time, to get where I wanted to be by the time my husband could catch up with me after work. When he got to me, I would get into the truck and not make him wait for me at our next camping spot. This is his vacation too, not just mine! If I was feeling good, I would get moving a little earlier and get more miles in.
The original plan was to ride all the way from Seaside to Lincoln City, but I was limiting myself to 50 miles and so ended in Tillamook at the Tillamook cheese factory. This was an amazing ride. The views were fantastic, and I loved every bit of it. I had a significant tailwind and so I made really good time. I even stopped at one of my childhood family haunts in Barview. There is a little convenience store there that we used to buy bait at and then go fishing on the jetty. There is also a big “G” on the hillside in Garibaldi that my dad would ask us kids to make up stories about. So. many. Memories! Every year, my husband and I have taken my kids to the Oregon coast in the summer to visit my family and every year we go to the Tillamook Cheese factory for squeaky cheese samples and yummy ice cream. I couldn’t go past this spot without waiting for my husband and having ice cream together. After we ate, I got into the truck and my husband drove us to our camping spot in Lincoln City.
Note: If you are using a Starlink for internet, do not stay at Devil’s Lake State Park. There are too many trees to get a satellite connection.
Due to the satellite connection issues, we got up early in the morning to move our trailer to the D River Park so my husband could get internet to work. I got ready for my ride that day while my husband started his meetings. I could really get used to having my breakfast at a picnic table next to the ocean. Amazing!
This day’s ride was so wonderful and full of so many memories as these were the areas that my family frequented the most. I stopped at Boiler Bay to take pictures as it has always been one of my favorite spots. My cousin owns a museum and a fishing tour boat in Depot Bay. I stopped at her museum to see her, but she was out on the boat. I rode out to the lighthouse in Newport and ate a peanut butter sandwich while watching the tourists and the waves.
My mom did not want me riding south of Waldport due to the lack of a shoulder and steep cliffs into the ocean. I was confident that I could do it. My mom was not wrong, however. The road for quite a few miles south of Waldport is windy, narrow, and with some really sheer drop offs. I think I could have ridden it, but if there was much traffic, it would have really frustrated drivers making the situation fairly dangerous.
My brother met me on the other side of the Waldport bridge and so I hopped in his car, and I spent the rest of the day with him. That was one of my favorite days of the whole ride. It had been many years since I had spent much time with him. We drove to Florence, which is where our campground was for the night. My grandmother used to live in Florence, so we had burgers at the old A&W drive-in, took pictures of us in front of her little old red house, found Grandpa’s shop, went to the north jetty where we used to have sandy cheddar cheese sandwiches and set up camp at Honeyman State Park. My grandma and grandpa took us to Honeyman State Park every year to slide down the dunes, play in the lake and hike the trail around the lake. This was a day of wonderful memories.
Honeyman State Park had too many trees for my husband to get a connection to work, so we moved the trailer to an Albertson’s parking lot in town. I spent the morning honoring my shopaholic grandmother, by cruising her favorite shopping area in Florence, Bay Street. There are tons of fun shops, restaurants and even sidewalk artists. It was great and I got souvenirs for all my kids and grandkids for when we got back.
Newport Oregon Lighthouse. Photo by Kelly McPherson
Then I headed out towards North Bend. Highway 101 veers away from the ocean in this section and has quite a bit of climbing. My family rarely went this direction, so it was an area unfamiliar to me. I was so far from the beach that I did stop a couple of times to check my map to make sure that I was still on the right road. There were some long climbs on this route. There is a lighthouse near the top of one of them. Having looked at the maps afterwards, I wish I had taken the side trip to go see it. Though, I was tired, and the miles of the week were really starting to wear on me, and I wasn’t sure that a side trip that I didn’t know how long or steep it would be was wise.
This was a short day. I was tired. My lungs were really feeling it. Also, there was a forest fire somewhere between where we were and the camp spot inland on the way to Crater Lake. Forest fires in Oregon can be really scary and they change direction quickly and suddenly. I didn’t want to be caught near one on a bike, miles from my husband and the support of our truck and trailer. I decided that today would be a chill day. My husband had gone ahead and was parked at Sunset Bay Beach. When I got to him, I changed and then spent the rest of the day with my feet in the sand and my hand in a big bag of saltwater taffy.
Sunset Bay Beach. Photo by Kelly McPherson
Heaven!
We did end up going to Crater Lake. I didn’t ride around it as I had planned. The road around it was closed for construction. The parts that were open were bumper to bumper traffic with no shoulders and sheer drop offs on either side. Yeah … I like to live.
If you go:
August usually has the best weather and the least likelihood for rain.
Plan for rain. The Oregon coast can get up to 200 inches of rain a year, so be prepared for some of it to be on you.
Make sure to have lights on your bike even while riding in the daytime. Fog can make visibility tough.
Avoid riding on the weekends or holidays. The traffic is horrendous.
I would recommend riding from north to south as you are more likely to have a tailwind. It is also really fun to be on the ocean side of the road. It is so pretty!
There are lots of camping and hotels on this route, but you will want to reserve early. The Oregon coast is a tourist hotspot, and the best accommodations fill quickly.
Don’t rush this trip. There is so much to do and see to focus on mileage goals. Just slow down and enjoy it!
Make sure not to miss the following:
Mo’s in Seaside and south of Lincoln City as well as Newport. The one in Newport on Bay Blvd is the original one and well worth the trip, but I like the view from the one south of Lincoln City the best.
Ride the old train in Rockaway Beach.
Get ice cream and squeaky cheese at Tillamook Cheese Factory in Tillamook.
Pacific City has a beach you can drive on and a fabulous dune to climb. My sister likes the Meridian Restaurant and Bar.
Put your feet in the D river in Lincoln City and get lunch at Kyllos.
Browse the shops in Depot Bay. Ainslees’s Taffy in Depot Bay is the best. My cousin owns Tradewind Charters if you want to go fish or whale watch.
Look for agates on Fogarty Beach.
Take pictures at Yaquina Head lighthouse in Newport. Definitely make the trek down the long stairs to see the critters in the tidepools near the lighthouse.
Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport is free and fun. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is nearby but is expensive.
Sea Lion Caves are fun, but expensive. My family only went once.
Shopping on Bay Street in Florence.
Slide down the dunes on a saucer, play in the lake and walk the trail at Jesse M Honeyman state park south of Florence.
Update on my health:
I am happy to be alive. So many people, who have gone through what I did, aren’t. I credit that to my consistent healthy exercise over so many years. I am not back to where I was, physically, before my ablation and embolism, but I am back on my bike with a new outlook on cycling. Cycling should be fun. If it isn’t, you aren’t doing it right. Sometimes that means slowing down and changing goals a bit. It may be time to seriously start planning my trip from Salem, Massachusetts to Lincoln City, Oregon.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colorado (August 18th, 2024) — The 2024 edition of SBT GRVL presented by Wahoo saw two reigning US gravel national champions, Keegan Swenson and Lauren Stephens, deliver commanding performances on the beautiful and brutal new courses, solidifying their dominance in the gravel racing world.
Scenes from the 2024 SBT GRVL, August 18, 2024. Photo by Dane Cronin
The new SBT GRVL Black Course tested even the most seasoned riders with its 125.4 miles of challenging terrain, featuring 10,897 feet of climbing and 88% gravel. Though technically shorter than previous years, the updated course added about 800 feet of climbing and introduced more challenging backcountry climbs, including the steep and dusty Wahooligan Pass over Country Road 56. Despite predictions, the course raced faster than expected with Swenson opting for 2.1 mountain bike tires to tackle the loose, chunky terrain.
Returning champion Keegan Swenson (Santa Cruz HT SQD) secured his third SBT GRVL presented by Wahoo title with a decisive breakaway, while Lauren Stephens (Cynisca Cycling ) claimed her long-awaited victory with a solo win on the new, challenging Black Course. Both athletes demonstrated their prowess, navigating the rugged terrain and leaving their competitors in the dust.
Lauren Stephens, the current US Gravel Champion and former National Road Champion, made her intentions clear from the start. By the first feed stop, Stephens had already pulled clear of the chase group, which included top contenders Sofia Gomez Villafañe and two-time SBT GRVL presented by Wahoo winner Lauren De Crescenzo. Stephens continued to extend her lead over Wahooligan Pass, where Gomez Villafañe, Cecily Decker, and Melissa Rollins fought to stay in contention.
Women’s Race Recap
De Crescenzo’s hopes for a third title were dashed as she punctured out of the race before Hayden, dropping to 20th and then chased on to catch the front of the race to later crash on the final descent of Dunkley Pass sustaining a broken collarbone, having just dropped Gomez Villafañe and Dekker cresting the climb. Dekker eventually couldn’t sustain the pace of Gomez Villafañe on the closing stages coming into Steamboat Springs. Stephens remained unchallenged, powering through the northern sector at mile 45 with a commanding 6:30 lead. By the finish, she had solidified her position as the new queen of SBT GRVL presented by Wahoo, crossing the line in 6:17:17 and 13 minutes ahead of the competition.
Scenes from the 2024 SBT GRVL, August 18, 2024. Photo by Dane Cronin
“This has been on my bucket list since [SBT GRVL] started, and I’m thrilled to finally win it,” said Stephens, who rides for Cynisca Cycling and has twice finished second on the podium in Steamboat. “The new course was tough, but the challenge made the victory even sweeter.”
Karolina Migon and Paige Onweller rounded out the top five, finishing in fourth and fifth, respectively, after a tight battle further down the group. Sarah Lange continues her breakout season and former unbound winner Carolin Schiff was surprisingly absent from the front of the race.
Reigning women’s US National Champion Lauren Stephens takes the win. Photo courtesy SBT GRVL
Results – Women’s Elite
Lauren Stephens – 6:17:17
Sofia Gomez Villafañe – 6:30:12
Cecily Decker – 6:37:20
Karolina Mignon – 6:42:39
Paige Onweller – 6:45:17
Men’s Race Recap
In the Men’s Elite race, Keegan Swenson made his finishing move at mile 84, breaking away from former German road professional Paul Voß on the climb to the SRAM Oasis aid station. The pair had ridden clear of a large group earlier in the race around mile 55, above Hayden on a technical rutted section, but it was Swenson who ultimately emerged victorious, crossing the line in 5:41:10 and 9 minutes before the 2nd place rider Torbjørn Røed.
Behind him, a thrilling sprint unfolded for the remaining podium spots. Norwegian Torbjørn Røed edged out Alexey Vermeulen and Australian gravel champion Brendan Johnston to take second place, with Røed finishing in 5:49:46. Vermeulen and Johnston followed closely behind, separated by mere seconds while gravel veteran Peter Stetina claimed the final spot in the top five.
The race was not without its challenges. Notable crashes and mechanical issues affected several riders including Russell Finsterwald, another strong contender who crashed out with shoulder injuries. The Traka Winner, Petr Vakoč, also flatted on the technical descent of Wahooligan Pass. Strong performances by the current CX national champion Eric Brunner and silver medalist at the XC Marathon World Championships, Portuguese Tiago Ferreira.
Reigning men’s US National Champion Keegan Swenson takes the win. Photo courtesy SBT GRVL
TOUR DE FRANCE FEMMES 2024 | STAGE 8 | LE GRAND-BORNAND > ALPE D’HUEZ
The 8th and final stage of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift produced a thrilling finale on Alpe d’Huez with Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon//SRAM Racing) securing the GC win as Demi Vollering (SD Worx-Protime) took the stage victory. Vollering rode incredibly to win the stage, followed across the line by Pauliena Rooijakkers (Fenix-Deceuninck) at 4”, with Evita Muzic (FDJ – SUEZ) third at 1’01” and Niewiadoma fourth, also at 1’01”, which was enough to secure the Yellow Jersey and GC glory for Niewiadoma by just 4”. Vollering therefore concluded the race in second place overall, with Rooijakkers completing the podium in third (10”) and Muzic fourth (1’21”).
At the top of the Tamie climb Ghekiere strengthened her position in the Mountain classification reaching the summit first, followed by Bredewold, Majerus and Adegeest. By the time the breakaway riders reached the intermediate sprint at km 53.4 at Aiguebelle (Val D’arc) they had a 2’50” gap over the bunch. Wiebes won the sprint, ahead of Majerus and Barrel. Approaching the Col du Glandon (km 98.5, HC,19.7km at 7.2%) the peloton accelerated and the gap to the break was quickly reduced to 1’30” as the climb started.
Moves on the Glandon
The likes of Faulkner, Fahy, Wiebes and Persico were dropped by the breakaway early on the Col du Glandon climb. 1’00” was the gap from the peloton to the front of the race 15.5 km from the summit of the Glandon, with Lippert, Brand, Magnaldi, Aalerud, Smulders, Arzuffi and Adegeest riding clear of the remainder of the breakaway, their former companions in the lead group dropping back into the bunch on the climb. Ghekiere was one of those who fell backwards on the ascent, then also dropping behind the peloton having expended so much energy in her epic win yesterday.
Vollering sets the race alight
Valentina Cavallar (Arkea – B&B Hotels Women) attacked from the main group and went solo at the front, overtaking what remained of the breakaway 5km from the summit of the Glandon. The race then exploded as Demi Vollering (SD Worx-Protime) distanced the wearer of the Yellow Jersey Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon//SRAM Racing) with her first attack, 2.5 kilometers from the top of the Col du Glandon, with only Pauliena Rooijakkers (Fenix-Deceuninck) managing to follow the 2023 Tour winner, as they joined Cavallar at the front. Those three went over the summit 57” ahead of Niewiadoma, who was in a group with Gigante, Realini, Muzic, Brand and Kerbaol. As Puck Pieterse (Fenix-Deceuninck) was not one of the point-scoring first 8 riders over Glandon summit it confirmed the polka dot jersey for Ghekiere.
Vollering initially left Rooijakkers and Cavallar behind on the first bends of the descent, but the pair soon rejoined her, only for Cavallar to eventually lose contact with the Dutch pair. Rooijakkers fought hard to stay with Vollering on the last kilometres of the descent and with 25 km to go the pair were still together, 1’15” ahead of the Yellow Jersey group. Under Lucinda Brand’s leadership for Lidl – Trek and at the service of Gaia Realini, that group reassembled at the Verney dam, 25 km from the finish. Niewiadoma (1st overall), Kerbaol (3rd in the GC after Stage 7 at 37″), Muzic (9th at 1’25”), Realini (12th at 1’49”), Brand (13th at 2’01”), Fisher-Black (28th at 7’26”) and Cavallar (36th at 14″22) were all present and ready for the final battle.
When the climb of Alpe d’Huez (km 149.9, HC, 13.8km at 8.1%) commenced the gap between the front two and the chasing GC leader’s group was 44”. A reduced chasing group of Niewiadoma, Realini and Muzic were only 39″ behind Vollering and Rooijakkers 12.6km from the finish, but as Vollering pressed on the gap was back up to 1’05” with 10 km to go. By the 5 km to go marker the difference between the two groups was 59” as the tension mounted. Although Vollering would go on the reach the finish line first just ahead of Rooijakkers, Niewiadoma’s fourth place finish behind Muzic was enough to seal the Yellow Jersey.
Vollering: “A big fight against myself on Alpe d’Huez”
Demi Vollering (SD Worx-Protime): “It feels very sour that I lost by just four seconds. Because before the Yellow Jersey was very secure on my shoulders, but then the stupid crash was there and I lost it actually there. It’s really painful to know now that it was not enough today. Normally I would also be able to do it, but today I had a lot of pain in my back. It was a big fight against myself on Alpe d’Huez. I tried to fight with everything I had. I know that we have an event in Holland and there are a lot of people fighting every year for a good charity for cancer research. All those people fight all the way to here [Alpe d’Huez]. Today I was thinking about this. I could never give up, that was what I did, but it was not enough. I won two stages, one time second and one time third, I had a very good Tour de France, only one day was a bad day.”
Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon//SRAM Racing): “That was a real rollercoaster of emotions. On the descent [of the Glandon] I was able to rebuild myself, refresh and I was so lucky to have Lucinda Brand there, so I think we also have to say a big thanks to Lidl – Trek because they did a great job for us. On Alpe d’Huez I knew that I just had to pace myself right, so that I could give my best in the last 5 km, so that I could minimise the gap as much as possible. To be honest I lost the faith again. In the radio they were screaming so much in the last 2 km and to be honest I went through such a terrible time on this last climb. I hated everything, to then arriving at the finish line and learning that I had won the Tour de France, which is insane! It is so mind blowing because there are so many people that I am thankful and grateful for, starting with my husband, my family, my whole team, my coach, who put in so much work to prepare me for this, and my friends! This is dedicated to so many people who contributed to the victory!”
The third annual USA Cycling Gravel National Championship will take place the third weekend of September 2025 in La Crescent.
LA CRESCENT, Minnesota (August 6, 2024) – The Apple Capital of Minnesota, La Crescent, along with the entire La Crosse, Wisconsin region, is set to become a premier cycling destination, as it will proudly host the USA Cycling Gravel National Championships for the next two years, starting with the first event slated for the third weekend of September 2025, which coincides with their annual Apple Festival.
Photo courtesy Explore La Crosse
“We are excited to bring our Gravel National Championships to La Crescent/La Crosse for 2025-2026. The region’s diverse landscape offers multiple options for developing unique courses with challenging climbs, creating a new and different experience for riders out on the course. Combining our event with their renowned annual Apple Festival offers another unique experience that our riders and their families can enjoy off the course,” said Kyle Knott, USA Cycling’s Director of National Events.
Athletes will compete for gold on the challenging terrain and unique topography of La Crescent/La Crosse and surrounding areas, providing an unparalleled racing experience through coulees and river valleys while showcasing the picturesque beauty of the region.
2023 USA Cycling Gravel National Championships Elite Womens Start. Photo by Tyler Phillips/USA Cycling
“To say we are excited to host the USA Cycling Gravel National Championships is an understatement. If you have not visited us in the past, get ready for something truly inspiring, as there’s something special about the place where Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa meet. We call it the Driftless Region, where the Ice Age glaciers failed to grind down a corrugated, primal landscape. This untouched playground of bluffs, ridges, coulees, and valleys on both sides of the Mississippi River is crisscrossed by two networks: smooth, low-traffic county byways and rolling gravel backroads is a cyclist’s dream. There is no doubt, that this event will pull a well-deserved spotlight on La Crescent, southeastern Minnesota, and the entire greater La Crosse region as a premier bicycling, specifically gravel, destination in our country,” said A.J. Frels, Explore La Crosse’s Executive Director.
Photo courtesy Explore La Crosse
Gravel Nationals will continue to feature both Amateur and Elite races, aiming to attract cyclists and enthusiasts of all skill levels, while providing a competitive opportunity for all participants.
SILVER CITY, New Mexico (August 13, 2024) — The 2024 Gila Monster Gran Fondo is set for Saturday, October 12, in Silver City. With three ride distances, this annual event is when recreational cyclists can sample the challenge the Tour of the Gila stage race offers.
“The Gila Monster Gran Fondo brings the cycling community together and showcases the Gila Wilderness, which turns 100 this year,” says board member and race director Jack Brennan. “In October, the weather tends to be comfortable, and the landscape looks especially beautiful.”
Riders tackle the Gila Monster Gran Fondo in Silver City, New Mexico. Photo by Carson Klemp, courtesy Tour of the Gila
Designed to be fun for recreational and competitive cyclists, the 30-, 60-, and 80-mile rides each follow New Mexico Highway 15, the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway, and finish at the Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House in Pinos Altos for the Post-Ride Party.
The 80-mile Gran Fondo delivers 10,696 feet of climbing along the out-and-back route from Silver City to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Visitor Center.
The 60-mile Medio Fondo climbs 6,966 feet and includes five rest stops. Starting in Silver City, this ride turns around at the Clinton P. Anderson Overlook.
The 30-mile Nano Fondo starts in Pinos Altos, climbing 2,870 feet to the rest stop at Wild Horse Mesa and back.
Rest stops include drinking water, energy drinks and foods, and toilet facilities, as well as extra tubes and inflation. Sag wagons will offer water, tubes and inflation.
Open on BikeReg now, Gila Monster Gran Fondo registration costs $100. After September 27, entry rises to $110. Volunteers for the 2024 Tour of the Gila receive 40% off. Call Jack Brennan at 575-590-2612 for the coupon code. Late registration will be available at Gila Hike & Bike at 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 12. For more info, visit tourofthegila.com.
Held under a USA Cycling Permit, the Gila Monster Gran Fondo also operates under a special use permit with the Gila National Forest.
The locally owned Murray Hotel and Copper Manor Motel both offer special deals to Gila Monster Gran Fond participants. For 20% off at the Murray Hotel, guests may call 575-956- 9400 and press 2 to talk with the front desk. For a 15% discount off rooms at the Copper Manor Motel, guests may call 575-538-5392 and leave a message if no immediate answer.
When summer starts with a stifling heat wave, as many places are seeing in 2024, it can pose risks for just about anyone who spends time outside, whether they’re runners, people who walk or cycle to work, outdoor workers or kids playing sports.
Susan Yeargin, an expert on heat-related illnesses, explains what everyone should think about before spending time outside in a heat wave and how to keep yourself and vulnerable family members and friends safe.
What risks do people facing running, walking or working outside when it’s hot out?
The time of day matters if you’re going for a run, or if you’re walking or cycling to work during a heat wave. Early risers or evening runners face less of a risk – the Sun isn’t as hot and the air temperature is lower.
But if your normal routine is to go for a run midmorning or over lunch, you probably want to rethink exercising in the heat.
Add humidity to the mix and that will also affect your body’s ability to dissipate heat through sweat.
A rider dumps a bottle of water over his head trying to stay cool while climbing Little Cottonwood Canyon. Tour of Utah Ultimate Challenge, August 5 2017. Photo by Dave Iltis.
Don’t forget that the body also generates internal heat when you’re active, whether you’re running or even mowing your lawn. When it’s warm to hot outside, you’re further increasing your heat gain through that exertion. The harder someone runs or cycles, the more heat they’re generating.
Outdoor workers on farms, construction sites or even walking dogs are often in the heat longer, with less flexibility for breaks.
Your sweat rate improves, dissipating heat more effectively. Your plasma volume expands so you have more blood pumping through your body, so the heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Because your cardiovascular system is more efficient, your body doesn’t heat up as much. You also retain salt a bit better, which helps you keep water in your body.
That doesn’t mean you’re ready for even higher temperatures or extreme heat, though. Even if you’re acclimatized to 80-degree weather, you might not be ready for a 95-degree heat wave. When we get early season heat waves and high humidity, that can reach a level people aren’t adapted to handle yet. And some combinations of heat and humidity are too much for anyone to safely spend much time in.
Are young children and older people at higher risk in the heat?
Their thirst mechanism may also not function as well, leaving them more likely to become dehydrated. Some older adults are also less willing or able than younger people to seek out cooling centers.
Children might take a few more days to acclimatize than adults. They’re also more dependent on skin heat loss than sweating, which is why their skin can get red and flushed-looking.
Children are probably better about complaining about feeling too hot or not feeling well, though, so listen to them and help them seek out cooler areas. They might not realize that they can take a break during soccer practice, or that they should come in from the beach.
Image in the public domain, courtesy CDC.gov
What are your top heat safety tips?
Be smart about the time of day you’re being active: People love their routines, but you need to get the workout and yard work and other outdoor activities done early in the day or late in the evening. Avoiding the hottest parts of the day is the smartest way to prevent heat illnesses. When outside and the Sun is up, seek places with shade.
Have good hydration habits: Don’t ignore thirst – it’s your body telling you something. Hydration keeps your plasma volume higher to help your heart work less and decreases your overall risk for heat illnesses. Your brain and muscles are also composed of water, so if your body senses that you don’t have enough water, it will start to sacrifice other things, including how much you’re sweating.
Listen to your body: When you do need to be outside to work or play, your body will give you cues regarding how it’s handling the heat. If you don’t feel well, feel hot or can’t seem to push harder, your body is telling you to slow down, add extra breaks or get out of the situation.
Make smart clothing choices: Wear light-colored clothing, which absorbs less heat than dark clothes. Short-sleeved shirts and shorts can also avoid helping heat build up or impairing sweat evaporation.
Remember that helmets and sports equipment hold in heat: Construction workers often have to wear hard hats, but athletes don’t always need to practice with shoulder pads and helmets, especially in high heat. To help workers, there is a push for companies to follow health safety guidelines, such as providing cooling stations and hydration breaks.
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (August 15, 2024) — The Mi Duole Cycling Team is hosting the 10th Annual “Canyons Challenge,” an event that has become a notable tradition in the cycling community. This year’s route offers a unique and demanding experience, featuring a 7-mile gravel road segment from Jeremy Ranch to the backside of Big Mountain.
Scenes from the Canyons Challenge bike ride. Photo courtesy Mi Duole Cycling Team
The Canyons Challenge will start with its iconic climb up Little Cottonwood Canyon, followed by Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the ascent over Guardsman Pass. Riders will then descend into Park City, navigate over to Jeremy Ranch, and traverse the gravel road. This segment will test the riders’ choices in tires, wheels, and bikes. The final stretch will take cyclists up and over the backside of Big Mountain, culminating at the bottom of Emigration Canyon. There will be KOM/QOM timing for the fastest riders up each climb.
This year’s challenge is not only about the ride but also about supporting a vital cause. The event aligns with the mission of Wheels of Justice, an organization dedicated to combating child abuse. With over 700 individual members and numerous teams worldwide, Wheels of Justice rallies cyclists to raise awareness and funds to put an end to child abuse. In Utah, more than one in seven children will face sexual abuse before turning 18, a statistic that underscores the importance of this cause.
Founded in 1984, the Mi Duole Cycling Team is one of Utah’s longest-established road cycling clubs. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Mi Duole continues to promote cycling and community engagement through events like the Canyons Challenge.
Scenes from the Canyons Challenge bike ride. Photo courtesy Mi Duole Cycling Team
2024 Event Info:
August 17 — Mi Duole Canyons Challenge|, Sandy, UT, One of the most daunting and beautiful cycling challenges in the country, ascending more than 14,000 feet over 116 miles through all five of Salt Lake City’s picturesque riding canyons before finishing at the Utah Capitol building. Comprising three HC climbs and two Category 2 climbs, the ride has more vert than almost any other ride in America and certainly the steepest average gradient. Participants may elect to ride one, two, three, four or all five of the canyons, Spencer Chipping, 801-597-1111, [email protected], Stuart Anderson, [email protected], http://miduole.com/canyons-challenge-event
