Lynn's story: Parker Dam Gravel Grinder

BaseCamp athlete Lynn Botelho shared her experience at the 2026 Parker Dam Gravel Grinder bike race in Pennsylvania.

This is a fun and pretty flat course for this area (Central PA). I'm happy to report that I came in 1st in my age group and 4th overall in women's.

It's 20 miles of rollers-like terrain to start (the full course has 40 miles). Aid Station at Mile 28 at the bottom of a hill. From there to the finish it is a series of climbs with the finish at the top. This isn't a technical race: no single track, no rock gardens. The sign posting is very good. Essentially it's just good gravel in a good setting. The last mile is only a slight rise, but since you are clearly back in "civilization," it always feels that the end should be nearer than it is. For me, it is the longest mile of the day! All in is 52 miles and 4,188 feet of gain.

This year the weather was horrible! Rained all day and rained hard at times. Lots of mud and plenty of opportunity to slide out. It was also on the cold side. It was about 53 degrees at the finish. Last year, it was hot and sunny. The year before that was another rainfest. It can go either way this time of year in this part of Pennsylvania!

I'm still a "young" racer and made my share of mistakes. I missed two good surges early on, including one with the women who came in 1st and 2nd. Should have burned that match and grabbed those wheels. Next time, baby! I struggled getting my fuel out of the zip pockets on my hydration vest. Coach Maia Paris and I have plotted alternate storage. And the dumbest thing I did while trying to clean my glasses, I smeared the inside with mud. I ended up pocketing them and squinting my way home. I left gas in the tank at the end -- still learning how to empty the tank. In fact, I've got lots to learn!

This is a well-run race that is part of a race series. They also run the Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic that is a 3-day stage race. Looking forward to seeing some of you there.