Avesa shares her thoughts on The Wolf Bikepacking Race. Please remember to use our carbon offset calculator from our partners at the National Indian Carbon Coalition to offset your event travel miles. Thank you!
“I went into the Wolf weekend with a bad summer cold– I planned to keep my distance, quietly drive the support vehicle, and go home early. On Sunday morning I could see Jer was going down fast with a migraine, and I’d have to step in as Race Director, like I did last fall for The Heck. For a minute I wasn’t sure how I’d muster the energy– but then the volunteers arrived at the finish area, with their joyful banter and can-do attitudes. When the first riders flew in, they got to work recording times, taking pictures, and awarding medals and prizes. The positive vibe increased as more crossed the finish, and in no time the parking lot felt like a beach party, with riders lying in the shade drinking cold cokes and cracking jokes.
The Wolves really did act like a pack– and demonstrated real Graveleer behavior, like stopping to pick up trash and other riders’ dropped water bottles, sandals, and sunglasses. It was touching to see new-formed friends share supper in town and help each other fix chains and patch tubes. On day two, at around mile 80, several stopped to help a fellow rider fix his cracked rim with duct tape and zip ties. He picked his way over the rough patches of the North Shore State Trail and rolled into the finish like a champ.
These events attract such kind-hearted, resilient, and resourceful people. I am so grateful that you chose to share your weekend with us, in this gorgeous part of the world.”