Lynn's story: Mid-State Gravel Grinder

BaseCamp athlete Lynn Botelho shared her experience at the 2025 Mid-State Gravel Grinder bike race in Pennsylvania.

After another hard battle with Beth Williams (a great competitor), I managed the age group win and with it the Trans-Sylvania Gravel Series Title. The final race of the season we'll be riding for fun!

Had I been brave, I would have come in 3rd in the Open.

This was a relatively flat course for us in PA: 48 miles with only 3,458 feet of gain. That said, we still had plenty of challenges. There was about 1 - 1.5 mile of baby head gravel on a descent. I knew I couldn't win the race here, but I could lose it. So my mantra was "Stay Upright." I do not know or care who heard me as I repeated it, out loud, the entire way. I am happy to report that I "Stay(ed) Upright." There were also several gates to wiggle through, almost U-turns, and a very bumpy air field for the finish.

Very happy to have my nutrition dialed in just right for this one.

Even more happy to see and talk to so many other BaseCamp people.

Most happy for being part of this great community and being able to keep learning and improving.