Bee's story: Cascade Gravel Grinder

BaseCamp athlete Bee Kickel shared her experience at the 2026 Cascade Gravel Grinder bike race in Oregon.

Cascade Gravel Grinder was a last minute add to my calendar. 80 miles and almost 7000 feet of climbing. Came quickly after my success at Stetina's Paydirt.

Beautiful and sometimes challenging course that had me more mentally than physically challenged. At 40 miles I really questioned why I do this to myself. Then I ate and told my mind to stfu. Nobody is going to pedal for you, so suck it up, buttercup.

I finished in 6:30, 6th woman overall and first in Masters 60 women (second place was 50 minutes behind me). At the end of the day, I'm so grateful to be able to do hard things. Thankful for bike friends, family, and Coach Kathy. It takes a village to keep me on track.