I have been riding mountain bikes on and off since 2005 when I got my first bike, a 2003 Gary Fisher Tassajara. It was a rocky start. I battled with the equipment, fear, and a general lack of confidence and knowledge. For years I tolerated the sport but my stoke was low and in 2013 when my bike was damaged in a car accident, I had the prefect excuse to take a break from riding.
But in 2016, I developed a serious case of FOMO after moving to Utah and finding myself surrounded by people who ride. You can't live here and not ride. This time, armed with a fully modern Specialized Rhyme 6Fattie with all the latest tech, I fell in love with the sport. I got involved with the community, began taking skills clinics, and focused my spare time around bikes. It became my thing. It is my purpose.
Since 2018 I have guided hundreds of women as a ride leader and coach for WomenMTB on everything from short mellow foothill trails to hard desert tech.
I have dedicated my last 7 summers to guiding and mentoring with Little Bellas, an incredible non-profit dedicated to helping 7-15 year old girls build confidence through mountain biking and the outdoors.
In addition to the group instruction that I offer with WomenMTB, I also offer private sessions and guiding.
While inherently risky, I do not believe that mountain biking has to be dangerous. The sport has grown beyond the daredevils and adrenaline junkies who began the sport. Today, it is more accessible and safer than ever. With the right risk mitigation it can be a great activity for everyone, from young children to the most safety conscious grandmother.
In my instruction, my goal is to provide tools, techniques, and strategies to allow riders to expand their skills and enjoy a lifelong activity in the outdoors. I strive to help riders develop confidence and push their limits while reducing risk and maximizing their fun.
WomenMTB is a nonprofit based in northern Utah with the mission to empower women and community through mountain biking by creating an environment of acceptance, encouragement, growth, and education.
I coach and guide through WomenMTB, following their standards, policies, and commitment to the community.
I am professionally trained and certified as mountain biking instructor by the Professional Mountain Biking Instructors Association (PMBIA).
I obtained my Level 1 instructor certification in 2021.