Sierra Cycle Challenge:
               Something for Everyone!

Riders and support crew

The first annual Sierra Cycle Challenge had something for every type of cyclist. There was 8,000 feet of climbing, cycling through beautiful forests and banding together for an incredible cause. The fun on the bike was only rivaled by the good times off the bike.

Cycling toward Mt. Morrison

The three-day ride raised funds for Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra, and it also raised awareness in our community about serving those with disabilities. First, a huge thank you goes out to our riders who committed their time, energy and fundraising efforts for DSES: Kathy Copeland, Ken Klein, Terry Smutney, Nick Souza, Allegra Stevens, Greg Hadfield, Anne Ganse, Alicia Kuppens, Mark Jankowski, and missing from the ride but with us in spirit, Mary Walker. These riders had amazing SAG support from Susie Klein and Anita Haenni, who were at the ready with water, snacks, a smile and cold towels at the end of the day!

Kathy after climb

Susie, Terry and Tim

Diane and Bill Bramlet of Benton Hot Springs Campground and Doug Smith of Grant Lake Marina and Campground generously donated camping to us. Karl Teller of Chevron even filled up our support vehicles for the ride! Sue Morning was there on the first morning to take photos, while Karen Short of the MLPD escorted us safely out of town. Our fabulous motor home drivers, Jack Copeland and Jon Boyer, didn't even get a ticket. Our marketing team, Jorie Gubser and Nick Souza, did a fantastic job on our logo and jersey. And the amazing hands of massage therapist Kristy from Belladonna took all the kinks out after day two.

Many more volunteers made this ride possible, including Tim Vadheim and John Armstrong, who helped us plan the details of the route. East Side Velo lent us safety signs, while Footloose donated tools and gear to last the summer. Many wonderful folks helped us with food and serving the riders including: Vons, Luis and Lauri Lopez, Starbucks, Burgers, Pat and Arlene Adams, Elana Entin, Jon Stanovich, Quart Keyes, Roxanne Talman, Debbie and Ron Kuppens, Greta Boyer, and Mammoth Lakes Parks and Recreation.

We'll be cycling through the Sierra again next year so get ready for the challenge!