Story by Jessica Downing – Photos by Katie Young aka @kaytii
Maybe a full body strength training workout and a 17-mile ride wasn’t the best pre-race day training, I thought to myself as my legs yelled at me and I climbed on what felt like the 20th switchback. But I knew what awaited at the top: I’d get to line up with other riders, all of us with weary legs, ready to hoot and holler down a fun flowy downhill trail. And then do it again, and maybe even a 3rd time! The weather was perfect, the flowers were in bloom, and the company was even more wonderful.
The enduro format resembles a group ride with several laps and extended breaks in between. You’re only timed on the downhill sections, not the climbs. What sets the 2024 Rip Roaring Enduro apart is that you tackle the same lap repeatedly, rather than different stages, with your best lap determining your final time. Since I’d never ridden this trail at Arapahoe Basin before, I used my first lap as a pre-ride run, setting a benchmark to beat on the second lap, all while enjoying a lively dance party in between laps!
When we’re climbing the local trails, my friends lovingly tease me when they realize I’ve stopped talking because I’ve encountered a technical section. My favorite aspect of enduro races is that the uphill sections aren’t timed, allowing for uninterrupted conversation. And taking in the flowers.
“Racing” is all about perspective. I’ve only ever stood on the podium when the competition was mostly between me, myself, and I (with maybe one other person). But the real spark that drove me to sign up for the Rip Roaring Enduro was the internal motivation to push my limits, fueled by the collective energy of other women striving for their best. It’s all about pure joy, free from attitude or macho competition. We make new friends while collecting our timing chips, cheer loudly for others as they finish, and exchange plenty of high fives and hugs. The women’s mountain biking community is truly unique—one that thrives on celebrating and uplifting each other’s achievements.
Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to mountain biking, events like the Rip Roaring Enduro unite us all for a day of bike-fueled fun. There’s no “pro” category, only “spicy”; no “beginner” class, just a leisure group. The middle-of-the-pack riders, like me, fall into the “sporty” category. You can ride as many laps as you want within the 3-hour window, stay hydrated with plenty of Skratch, and celebrate with beer and pizza at the end.
Event: Rip Roaring Mini Enduro at Arapahoe Basin on July 14th 2024
This event was hosted on Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) and Tséstho’e (Cheyenne) native lands.
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