Choosing to do back-to-back XCM (cross-country marathon) events on the weekend following Rockstar isn’t anyone’s idea of optimal, but I had committed to both the Wormhole 100k and the Middle Mountain Momma XXC events long before I had planned to have anything to do with Rockstar. In fact, they were part of my original objection…
Author: Abi
Elite mountain bike racer, data science student, former teacher...
What if…?
Earlier this year, some friends mentioned to me that they were going to do a “stage race” version of the Rockstar Trail, a local point-to-point ultra endurance event, during the grand depart in April. I was intrigued, mostly because the fact that the Rockstar route starts in Harrisonburg and finishes in Roanoke with 270 miles…
Redemption Journey
Every year, I make it a point to join my friends at The Appalachian Journey. I’ve long said that I don’t race gravel because it doesn’t bring me joy, but this event is the epitome of joy. Everything that Gordon and Emily pour into this event shines through in a gravel gathering that celebrates community,…
The Stable Cyclist Podcast: Rebuilding Confidence After Unintentionally Going Viral
Thanks so much to JP at The Stable Cyclist Podcast for the opportunity to share a bit of my story of learning how to overcome anxiety on the bike, and the experiences that have propelled me into becoming an advocate for getting more women on mountain bikes and the importance of mental health.
2025 Ride Fierce Women’s Scholarship: Spring Update
In the last two months, Annie, Megan, Nicole, and Abby have been diligently training and preparing for their selected races. All four women are registered–so prepare to see them at The Shed Enduro, ORAMM, The Shenandoah 100k, and the Slatyfork Enduro this summer! Here are some short updates from each of them! The Shed Enduro:…
Spring is Here: Finding Balance in Life’s Seasons
I’ve been thinking a lot about balance lately. It’s no secret that many athletes at the highest levels have openly renounced balance, claiming that its necessary to go all-in on their chosen sport in order to be successful. However, others are pushing back on that idea, Kate Courtney and Sonya Looney among them, claiming that…
The Long Road Back
If you’ve ever gone for a hike, you likely have experienced the false hope of thinking that your destination is “just around the next bend” or “over the next hill.” My recovery from shoulder surgery feels much the same way. Back in October, when I first had surgery, I was looking forward to my first…
The Beginning of an Epic Story
In one of my past lives, I was an English teacher, and so, I can’t help but love a good story. If you think back to your middle or high school English classes, you might remember learning about the building blocks of a story, represented by the ever-present plot diagram. Ok. Take a trip down…
Party like its… 2025?!
Even if I still haven’t been cleared to ride a mountain bike again post-shoulder surgery, I am STOKED for 2025. In addition to the launch of the Ride Fierce Racing Women’s Scholarship, I’m excited to continue working with many of the partners who have supported me over the past few season…along with a few new…
Ride Fierce Racing 