Local Legends

Local Legends - Episode 44 with Rawley Macias of Rouleur Brewing Brewmaster In this episode of Local Legends, I sit down with Rawley, the multifaceted force behind Rouleur Brewing located in Carlsbad, CA. Rawley isn't just a rider; he's a talented brewer and a dedicated community builder. Rawley shares the intriguing story of how he ventured into beer making. Was it a hobby that turned into a profession, or was it always part of the plan? We discuss his evolution as a brewer and get a glimpse into the vibrant brewing scene in San Diego. He also opens up about the inspirations and influences that have guided him along the way. Rawley is heavily involved in the community through RTNGR and his contributions to race events, providing both support and excellent beer. He elaborates on these efforts and what they mean to him. Rawley’s dedication and skill have earned Rouleur Brewing an impressive 30 awards, including four medals at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and one World Beer Cup award, the two biggest competitions in the world of brewing. Rawley reflects on the most rewarding aspects of his journey so far and shares valuable lessons learned as an entrepreneur. Tune in to hear Rawley's inspiring story and gain insights into the business of bikes, beers, and the people that love both! Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 43 with Kylie De Jager - Having the Time of her Life. In this episode of the Local Legends podcast, we have the pleasure of chatting with Kylie, a 17-year-old cycling sensation who’s already making waves in the competitive racing world. With a recent BWR Wafer win under her belt and national titles in both gravel and XC, Kylie shares her journey from young enthusiast to national champion. Tune in as she talks about her training routines, the influences that have shaped her career, and her goals for the future. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting out, Kylie’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and passion in achieving great things on two wheels. Kylie lives in Yucaipa with her family and her home base for training.

Local Legends - Episode 42 with Escape LA AN INTENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE EXPERIENCE Welcome to a fun-filled, adventure-driven episode where I chat with Jason Shafer and Gregg Dunham of Escape LA. These two guys fell in love with the city and its trails, turning their passion for riding into something bigger—something stupid hard. In this episode, we dive into their lives, the vast open spaces in LA, and the stories behind the inaugural Escape LA Grand Depart in November 2023—a grueling 298 miles and 45,000 feet of climbing. The stories they shared were surprising and insightful, offering a deep look into the world of bikepacking and pushing past tough moments. Don't miss this episode if you're into adventure, bikepacking, or just love hearing about epic journeys on two wheels and to hear the release of the next Escape LA!!! You can learn more about Escape LA, the route and Snake visit https://www.labikepackingsucks.com/ or @labikepackingsucks on Instagram To listen to previous episodes on bikepacking - Episode 7 - Brendon Collier of Stagecoach 400 Episode 30 - MIC CHECK: Bikepacking To learn more about Shelly and her bikepacking training - https://www.outdoorfitnesscoach.com/blog/athlete-highlight-shelly

Rhonda Quick - Mountain Bike World Champion & World Tour Pro (Ep. 41) In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Rhonda, a powerhouse in the cycling world. Rhonda's impressive list of accomplishments includes being a World Tour pro, professional road racer, professional mountain biker, and World Champion mountain biker. Currently residing in San Diego with her teenage daughter, Rhonda continues to dominate the cycling scene across multiple disciplines, including road, mountain, and gravel riding. From a young age, Rhonda was a competitive swimmer. However, once she discovered cycling, it didn't take long for her to reach the podium. Her early success set the stage for a stellar career in competitive cycling. Rhonda is a true local legend, known for her strength, technical skills, and boundless energy. Whether she's racing or riding locally, her speed and determination are unparalleled. If you've ever had the chance to ride with her, you know just how quick and relentless she is. In our conversation, Rhonda shares how cycling has shaped her life and how she, in turn, has influenced the sport. From mountain biking to racing the classics, and now excelling in gravel riding, Rhonda's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Tune in to hear about Rhonda's incredible career, her passion for cycling, and her insights into the ever-evolving world of competitive riding.

Welcome to "Mic Check," a special episode of Local Legends where we delve deep into the lives and stories of extraordinary individuals. In this edition, I'm stoked to welcome back three phenomenal women who graced our podcast before: Makenna Kellerman, Joy McCulloch, and Tammy Tabeek. Join us for a fun discussion touching on life's various stages, training, and performance. Each of these women boasts an impressive racing and performance background, and they'll share their personal journeys navigating womanhood, education, careers, relationships, and the evolution of their cycling pursuits. Securing an hour of their time was no small feat; it was a juggling act of schedules and commitments. We had very little time to prepare for this gathering, and they didn't get much time to reflect on the questions which made their candid answers a genuine slice of life. As we explore their experiences and insights, I'll also pose some questions for you, the listener, to ponder: What do you do to keep yourself healthy? How have you seen things shift over the last five years, ten years, or even twenty years (if you're over 40)? What excites you about your future, and what are you curious about? After the episode, I will offer coaching tips on staying young, fit and fierce at any age. (Gentlemen - there will be an episode dedicated to you all. We will earmark Ep. 50 for a discussion with men through different stages of life. ) Enjoy!

UNLEASHING PERFORMANCE I'd like to introduce Dr. Jason Richardson - a former professional BMX rider now sharing his love for riding and performance as a Sports Psychologist and Mental Skills and Executive Coach. Jason got into a racing as the little brother tagging along as his brother excelled at the sport. Jason got his own chance to race and that is when things changed and his trajectory in riding and life transformed. In Episode 39, we dive into the journey of Dr. Jason Richardson, tracing his path from the adrenaline-fueled world of BMX racing becoming a Pro BMX World Champion and a PanAm Games Gold Medalist. We go through his journey riding to bike parks, 'practicing', getting chances and losing them and learning about himself and what he is made of. It was also fun to get some of his insights as a Sports Psychologist discussing breath work, confidence and the power of being free. Jason lives in Carlsbad with his wife and two sons. You can learn more about Jason here and follow him on Instagram @realdrjrich Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 38 with Dave Malwitz of Gravelstoke In its sixth year, Gravelstoke is known for its community around riding great trails with great people and having an adventure. I had the chance to sit down with Dave Malwitz, the mastermind behind Gravelstoke. Gravelstoke, known for their rides that seamlessly blend challenge, fun, and adventure, has become a trailblazer in the gravel riding community. In this chat, we dive deep into the origins of Gravelstoke, exploring how it all began and the unexpected ways it's evolved over the past six years. What sets Gravelstoke apart is not just the thrilling rides but the unique culture and inclusive atmosphere they've cultivated. Dave shares insights on how they've set the bar high, not only in terms of the rides but also in fostering a sense of community that welcomes riders of all levels. We touch on the transformative power of group rides like those organized by Gravelstoke. These rides aren't just about conquering challenging trails; they're about meeting new people, discovering fresh trails, honing your riding skills, and boosting your fitness. And let's not forget the camaraderie – turning strangers into riding buddies and friends. TO LEARN MORE: SEND IT CAMPAIGN GRAVELSTOKE STRAVA CLUB Follow on Instagram - @gravelstoke YouTube - Bike Set Up Enjoy this conversation with our next local legend, Dave Malwitz of Gravelstoke!

Local Legends - Episode 37 with Victor Sheldon. The Victor Kind of a cheesy title, I know but truly with a name like Victor makes you realize that the name stems from Victory (or is it the other way around). Delighted to have Victor back on the podcast. Victor was my very first guest in Episode 1 back in October 2021 talking about the creation and drive for Quick'n'Dirty Mountain Bike Racing. I invited Victor back to highlight his racing career and achievements. He has a fair share of accolades stemming from the 80s and 90s as a professional Jet Skier traveling the world; and as he states, "help to create Victor Sheldon". RACING HIGLIGHTS Gravel, World Nationals - 3rd place (Oct 2023) Gravel, National Championship, Men 55-59 (Sept 2023) 24-hours Old Pueblo 4 person team winner, 3x's - course record in 2023 Mountain Bike, National Champion - 6x's Cyclocross, National Championship, Masters 50-54 (2016, 2018) JetSki, National and World Champion - 8x's Victor also runs a MTB series, Quick n’ Dirty, which is a nationally recognized grass-roots, mountain bike race series with events year round and all throughout San Diego County. Their diverse racing calendar consists of several one day feature events and mid-week racing. Over the past 6 years, Quick n Dirty has grown in size and stature and attracts racers and their families from all walks of life. quickndirtymtb.com Victor and his family and family live in Vista located in San Diego County. Articles mentioned in our conversation https://granfondodailynews.com/2023/10/08/former-uci-world-road-champion-and-epo-doper-laurent-brochard-wins-gravel-worlds-title/ https://zapbikemedia.com/columns-1/f/2023-gravel-worlds-review-with-top-american-victor-sheldon Photo credit: Craig Huffman Photography

Local Legends - Episode 36 with Brian McCulloch - Spirit of a Champion Meet Brian McCulloch, a true legend in the cycling world. With a stellar track record, he's a two-time National Champion in Mountain Bike Marathon, conquered the challenging Belgian Waffle Ride in 2018, and claimed victory at the Whiskey 50 Off Road. As a pro road racer, he showcased his skills with Elevate from 2017 to 2020, iSpeed in 2023, and now proudly represents Enve & Big Wheel Coaching. Racing Highlights: 2023 Mountain Bike Nationals Champion (40-44 AG) 2021 Mountain Bike Nationals Champion (35-39 AG) 2018 Belgian Waffle Ride Champion      3rd General Classification Valley of the Sun Stage Race 2015 1st Ladera Ranch Grand Prix, 2015 2012 SCNCA District/State Road Race Champion 2011-2021 Integral member of the Elevate-KHS Pro Cycling In this conversation: We go into his latest win at Mountain Bike Nationals with strategy and nutrition. We discuss his journey with Artery Endofibrosis - the diagnosis, the surgery and recovery. We talk about his training now and how it compares with his road racing days. And he shares insights along the way of being the best and the mindset to press on. For more insights into Brian McCulloch's journey, check out his profile on the Belgian Waffle Ride website: Brian McCulloch - The People's Champion Learn more about Brian McCulloch and Big Wheel Coaching.

Local Legends - Episode 35 with Brian Lopes Multi-time world Champion, BMX & Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. Brian is a name synonymous with excellence in cycling, boasting a multi-time World Champion title and a well-deserved spot in the BMX and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. In this exclusive interview, I had the privilege of delving into the life and experiences of this legendary rider. From his early days as a BMX racer at the age of 4 to conquering disciplines like Downhill, Dual Slalom, 4X, Mountain Biking, Enduro, and even Sprint Eliminator, Brian's mastery of the bike is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With a racing career spanning two decades, Brian has an impressive list of achievements, including nine national championship titles, six UCI World Cup wins, and four UCI Mountain Bike World Champion titles. It's safe to say, the man is a living legend. But that's not all... He's also a published author, co-authoring the acclaimed "Mastering Mountain Bike Skills," now in its third publication and available in multiple languages. In 2008, Brian received the well-deserved honor of being inducted into the BMX and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats in the cycling world. Currently residing in beautiful Laguna Beach, CA, Brian continues to inspire riders and enthusiasts alike. Learn more about Brian Lopes on his website and on Instagram @brianlopes Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 34 with Dave and Christina Turner - Mountain Bike Trailblazers Get ready for a mountain bike history lesson. I met Christina the first time I ever raced Downieville back in 2011. I knew of her and it took a race, over 600 miles from our homes, for us to have our first interaction. After that day, there would be many races we would line up next to each other, each time our interaction was professional and brief and each time she played to win. She had grit, speed, and skills. That was all I knew of Christina. Dave was always equally professional and 'to the point' and meant business. I knew he was the brains and muscles behind Turner Bikes but didn't know much more than that. I was so glad to get these two mountain bike trailblazers on the Local Legends podcast to tell their story of their athletic career, the people they have raced with, the places they have gone and the shit they have accomplished! We discuss their racing career but what doesn't get noted in this conversation is they have EACH raced in hundreds of races, according to USA Cycling and that only dates back to 2001, including road, cyclocross, downhill, enduro, and cross country mountain bike. And of those, they have podium a high percentage including Christina winning the 2015 & 2016 Enduro Nationals and 2015 Cyclocross Nationals. Before USAC documentation, she had been racing Downieville and Great Flume Trail in Lake Tahoe, setting the course record in 1993. This was the time when mountain biking was coming of age. In this conversation, we discuss: 1. Riding and Racing Experiences - share highlights from local, regional, and national races and the various disciplines as well as their shared love for skiing and Christina's experience with extreme skiing. 2. Turner Bike and Its Evolution - Why and how it all began, and how the brand has evolved over the years and what sets their brand apart and the stories behind creating the first downhill bike. 3. The Turner Journey: Business and Pleasure - how the two of you met, love for riding and how they balance life with business ventures.Dave and Christina currently reside in Murrieta, CA and continue to race gravel and mountain locally and regionally. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TURNER BIKES - VISIT https://turnerbikes.com/ Outdoor Fitness Coach - Services including Base Training (starting December 1st) and our first B.A.R. on December 10th - visit Outdoor Fitness Coach website Racers/Pioneers Susan DeMattei Juli Furtado Jacquie Phelan Joe Breeze Races Downieville - Mountain bike race in Downieville, CA (July/Aug) Gravel & Whine - Gravel Race in Temecula, CA (Jan) Quick'n'Dirty - Local San Diego mountain bike (year round) Rock Cobbler - Gravel Race in Bakersfield, CA (Feb) Strada Rossa - Gravel Race in Redlands, CA (Mar)

Local Legends - Episode 33 with Doug Pomeranz, Road racing through the years In this episode of the podcast (Episode 33), I had the pleasure of sitting down with Doug Pomeranz, a seasoned road rider and racer with over 30 years of experience under his belt. Doug's journey into riding began in his twenties, and through his engaging storytelling, he takes us on a ride through his experiences and the people that have shaped him into the rider he is today. We also discuss the popular "Thug Ride" - how it came to be and the riders in San Diego that come and join this ride. San Diego has become Doug's home due to his deep passion for cycling. With numerous national champion titles to his name, he continues to compete at the elite Cat 1 level, showcasing his dedication and love for the sport. What truly stood out to me in this interview was Doug's unwavering commitment to evolving and pushing his limits, all fueled by his pure love for riding bikes. Join me as I explore the inspiring story of this local legend, delving into his rich history and the motivations that drive his enduring passion for cycling. Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 32 with Chris Powell In Episode 32 of the Local Legends Podcast, I have a captivating conversation with Chris Powell, widely known as Good Flow. Chris's journey into the world of BMX began at a young age, igniting a passion that would lead him to remarkable achievements. From racing at the pinnacle of the sport to transitioning into the 4-Cross (or 4X), Chris's tenacity and enthusiasm are truly inspiring. In our discussion, Chris delves into the intricacies of his riding and racing journey, recounting his experiences in both BMX and 4X. With a touch of poetic insight, he reflects on the art of skill and flow, highlighting the precision required to compete at the highest level. But Chris's story doesn't end there. We explore his genuine love for bicycles, including his involvement in assembling bikes for athletes like Olympians Mike Day and Jill Kintner, both of whom are celebrated Redbull athletes. Balancing his passion for cycling with a demanding family life and a full-time role as the in-house counsel at the local Better Buzz coffee shop, Chris offers how is able to train and managing time and commitments. We also dive into his recent win as the overall winner of the Quick'n'Dirty Summer Series in the men's 16-48 category where he rode the Specialized Diverge STR. Enjoy my next Local Legend - Chris Powell, aka Good Flow. FOLLOW UP LINKS/INFORMATION To learn more about Specialized Diverge (or any other bike in their fleet) or interested in demoing a bike, reach out to ⁠⁠Michael Macare⁠⁠ at Specialized San Diego. Filthy 50 Pre-Ride Series - Click on the link to learn more and to RSVP. There are two more pre-rides: Sept 17th and Oct 15 with 8am starts. Sign up for the Quick'n'Dirty Filthy 50 - https://quickndirtymtb.com/race-info/filthy-50/ ** TASCO 15% off your order ** Photo credit: Fred Robinson

Local Legends Ep. 31 with Joy McCulloch with Big Wheel Coaching Joy McCulloch is a racer, rider, coach, business owner, wife and a mom - phew!  Joy is one of the coolest people I know and really excited to have her as my next Local Legend not just for these attributes but for the way about her and solid character.  In this conversation, we dive into Joy's extraordinary journey of a racer, business owner and being the hub of the family.   Some of her racing and coaching accolades (in chronological order)  include B.S. Physical Education and Commercial Fitness, 2002 Collegiate Basketball Player High School PE Teacher 2003-2010 Mountain Bike Racing to Pro Level, 2004 - 2017 Road Racing to Elite Level, 2009 - 2017 SCNCA Criterium Champion 2014, Elite Women SCNCA Time Trial Champion 2014, Elite Women USA Cycling Level I Coach, since 2015 ACE Certified Personal Trainer, Healthy Weight Management, Behavior Change Specialist USAC Level 2 Coach Instructor 2017- Current TrainingPeaks University Instructor, 2017-2019 So, whether you're a die-hard racing enthusiast, an aspiring rider, or simply someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and entertained as we unveil the essence of what makes Joy McCulloch a true Local Legend. Follow Joy on Instagram @bigwheelcoaching and @ joyonbike or visit bigwheelcoaching.com  Here is a list of races and racers mentioned throughout our conversation.  Races Rim Nordic - mountain biking competition set in Rim Nordic Ski Area, California. For details, visit CBR road race - California Bike Race ⁠Leadville⁠ - Strenuous high-altitude 100-mile mountain bike race through rugged Colorado terrain.  Sea Otter Classic - Renowned annual bike race and festival in California, showcasing diverse cycling disciplines. More info at Redland Classic Stage Race - Exciting multi-day road cycling event showcasing top talent in scenic Southern California. Tour de Gila - Challenging multi-day cycling event in New Mexico, known for its scenic routes and competitive spirit. NORBA - acronym for National Off Road Bicycle Association, once an independent governing body of mountain bike racing in the US, and then later the mountain bike racing division of USA Cycling (USAC) Grodeo Gravel Race Whiskey 50 Mountain Bike Race - Thrilling mountain bike race in Prescott, Arizona, featuring epic trails and scenic landscapes. Unbound 100 and 200 Gravel Race - formerly Dirty Kanza and unprecedented gravel race testing limits with unconventional weather and dirt.  Belgian Waffle Gravel Ride - The only Euro-style Spring Classic on American soil, the BWR CA is a Road Race punctuated by two dozen unroad sectors (read: dirt for 55-miles) over roughly 137-miles and 11,000 feet of climbing.  Racers Emily Batty - professional cross country mountain biker from Canada. She has represented Canada in the Olympic Games and UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. Clara Hughes - a Canadian cyclist and speed skater who has won multiple Olympic medals in both sports. Hughes won two bronze in the 1996 Summer Olympics and four medals (one gold, one silver, two bronze) over the course of three Winter Olympics. Mara Katherine Abbott - a US former professional women's bicycle racer. In 2010, Abbott became the first US cyclist ever to win the Giro d'Italia Femminile, one of the Grand Tours of women's bicycle racing. Abbott retired after the 2016 Olympic Games road race. Megan Jastrab - an American professional racing cyclist, who currently rides for UCI Women's WorldTeam Team DSM.  She is 21-year old.

MIC CHECK: Local Legends - Episode 30 with Bikepacking with Sammy Crane-Solis, Shelly Peppe-Nani, and Ranger Dave (Ep. 8) Welcome to Ep. 30 and the third episode of MIC CHECK. I had really fun time with this conversation and first time having three guests. As I hoped, the conversation flowed with stories and insights of packing, eating, strategizing, and training and what they have learned and gained along the way. We talk about bikepacking primarily in SoCal (e.g. Stagecoach 400) but also reference many other bikepacking adventures (e.g. Arizona Trail). I had my first bikepacking when I did the Stagecoach 400 in 2012. For those not familiar with the SC 400 - it is a big loop (this year we went clockwise) that starts and ends in the mountains of Idyllwild. It is 400 mile ride/race, unsupported, and to be completed in 5 days. It was the hardest physical thing I've ever done and though I have always considered myself an endurance athlete, this game me a new definition of challenging. If you want to learn more about the SC400, I had a great conversation with Brendan Collier in Ep. 7 about just the Stagecoach - it's origins and the route. Enjoy this conversation about bikepacking :) For warning: there are a few bad words and we talk about issues with your privates during these kind of long rides.

Local Legends - Episode 29 with Lesley Paterson When your Local Legend is not only on Movie app, IMDB, but also has their own Wikipedia page, you know that you have a not just a local legend but a legend. I first started hearing about Lesley when I had Tammy Tabeek (Ep. 13) on Local Legends. Tammy spoke so highly of Lesley's athleticism as well as her character and their timeless experiences training. Then it seemed to be cosmic because I would later hear about Lesley in various conversations in various situations. As a podcast about passionate cyclist in Southern California, let's start with that her riding and racing accomplishments - Lesley Paterson got (back) into triathlon after moving out to San Diego from her homeland, Scotland. Lesley is a three time (2011, 2012, 2018) XTERRA World Champion AND a two time 2012, 2018) World Triathlon Cross Champion. She won a silver medal in 2009, 2013, 2015, and 2019 in XTERRA and silver medalist in Cross Triathlon World Championship in 2013. But there's more.. much more. She's an accomplished writer - publishing The Brave Athlete that she wrote with her husband, Simon Marshall, a sports psychology expert. She is a triathlon coach with her business Braveheart Coaching. And most notably with her amazing accomplishment of screenwriting All Quiet on the Western Front which received nine Oscar nominations, including BAFTA and Academy Awards for Best Adapted Screen play. The film won seven BAFTA awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. I was very excited and star struck to have this conversation with Lesley. This woman is packed with energy and focus. In this conversation, we talked about her recent Oscar nomination and the success of the movie. We also talk about her journey to racing triathlons and what it takes to be the best. It was also fun to talk to her about what she thinks about while she's training and what riding and training looks like now. Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 28 with Izzy King  Isabel King, better known as Izzy, has an impressive race history.  She started riding in 2017, in 2021 did her first gravel race, and in 2022 competed in the Lifetime Grand Prix along side the fastest racers in the nation.    Race Results 2023 Belgian Waffle Ride, Scottsdale - 6th place 2022 Lifetime Grand Prix - 16th place of overall 2022 Filthy 50 MTB - 2nd place expert women 2021 Vail Lake XC MTB - 1st place, Cat 1 2021 Unbound Gravel - 8th place 2021 Crusher in the Tushar - 6th place 2021 BWR, San Diego - 4th place 2021 Leadboat Challenge (Leadville & SBT Gravel) - 7th place 2021 Filthy 50 MTB - 4th place expert women Izzy is no stranger to working hard and playing hard as a D1 soccer player and getting a MBA, Izzy is committed to her craft and aims to excel to be the best.  She is dedicated to working hard and consistently. Besides being a total badass, one big reason I wanted to invite her to be a Local Legend is her attitude toward riding and life.  She is well known on social media with and she puts her heart on her sleeve sharing the pain, fun, and glory through it all - the good, the bad, the ugly.  Although she competes against the gods, she is someone many can relate to and her smile and charisma is genuine and gives her the warmth. I was very grateful to have this time with Izzy and talk more about what she makes of all this gravel racing and training.  Her goal to find a balance with training and life and how she has evolved as a racer learning about training, racing, and nutrition.  I also enjoyed talking more about her soccer experience because being a D1 athlete is no joke and to play at that level requires practice and dedication.   Follow Isabel King at king_iz on Instagram Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 27 with Jonas Woodruff Jonas is a junior racer with a background in mountain biking and gravel and most recently in road racing.  Last year he came in 6th at Unbound 100, 4th in True Grit 100, and 3rd overall in last year's Filthy 50.  He also came in first in his age group at the Sea Otter 80K, BWR San Diego and Leadville Barn Burner. This was a fun conversation about training and racing -- and we kick it off in the first 10 seconds.   As a 17 year old, Jonas knows what he wants and is working hard to be the best.  His lifestyle, which includes home schooling, sets himself to train and rest while getting his school work in.   Jonas’ experiences and stories are very relatable - whether you are also a junior racer and also balancing school and training, or a racer yourself working on your race strategy and getting yourself out the door on these cold wet winter days.  Enjoy my next Local Legend.

Local Legends - Episode 26 with Zach Martinez This 15-year racer knows what he wants and knows how to work hard.   Zach Martinez has been racing for ten years - yes people.. since he was five. Starting with cross country and over the years moving into gravel and road racing, Zach is focused and determined.  Zach's accomplishments include (and this isn't age group, this is overall standings!) - Rock Cobbler 2023(Pebbler) - winner - Quick'n'Dirty - multiple wins for Dropbar;  Overall winner of E-bike category - Hardman Classic (60 miler) - 2nd place - Top 5 in Crits Zach is a very amazing and cool kid.  I had fun talking with Zach about what it takes to show up and give his best from his daily life (work life balance), mental focus, and the wisdom to positive outlook on his riding and racing. photo credit: Wayne Taylor

Local Legends - Episode 25 with Sam Ames, Rock Cobbler - Race Organizer The notorious Rock Cobbler is having it's ten anniversary this year on February 11, 2023.  Last year was my first time there and it was everything it was promised to be - hard, long, beautiful, and very memorable.   I did the race with my husband, Simon, and he felt the exact way.  We are both excited to come back and be part of this event this year.   As I was preparing for this race which requires stamina, strength, and skills, I had a thought..."Chi, why don't you have Sam on Local Legends" - he is a legend and he is passionate about cycling and he does impact the community.  Then I thought, but it's Bakersfield and well Bakersfield is considered Central California, not SoCal.  I even googled it and essentially Southern California is anything south of San Luis Obispo and Bakersfield.  However, with so many from San Diego, Orange County and LA trekking up to Rock Cobbler, I consider Sam and Rock Cobbler our SoCal cool cousin! Sam Ames, created Rock Cobbler after being inspired by the Belgian Waffle Ride, his love for adventure and Bakersfield, and his own rich experience with road and Cyclocross racing.  He is born, raised and proud member of the Bakersfield community and values the diverse and immense amount of dirt and grassland available.   I had a blast talking with Sam about his cycling racing history, origins of Rock Cobbler, how it is grown and evolved, and what the Rock Cobbler means to him. Sam's Achievements include Semi-Professional (Barcelona regional team) road racer in Europe  General manager at Action Sports CEO of Ames Works LLC Chef of numerous restaurants in Bakersfield Enjoy my next local legend. ** Photo credit: PureGravel **