Detours: Bikepacking, Ultra-Cycling and Adventures by Bike

Justyna Jarczok on Reframing Setbacks and Finding Her Place in Ultra

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Justyna Jarczok) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:57:57 +0000

What do you do when things don't go your way? When you're caught in the eye of a storm and unsure whether to continue. When the race you trained all winter for falls apart on day one.

Justyna Jarczok has been cycling for only two years, and in that short time she's found some answers. She's resilient, positive, and ambitious – and she just won the women's race at Dale's Divide.

We talk about decision making in extreme weather, reframing races that don't go to plan, the community that rallied when her bike was stolen, and why ultra feels like the place she belongs.

Follow Justyna's adventure on Instagram @justine_bike

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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Bikepacking in Girona, 1 month til HT550 & Life Across the Pond

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:59:48 +0000

A lil life update on our recent trip to Spain, bikepacking around Girona, one month living overseas and the final few weeks of prep before Highland Trail 550.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Don't Be Afraid to Jump: Gala Giannini on the ER, Life by Bike and More Women on Start Lines

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Gala Giannini is an ER doctor, ultra racer, and now event organizer based in northern Italy. She's raced Italy Divide, Gran Guanche, Silk Road, Atlas, and Badlands.

At her first ultra, there were maybe four women on the start line. At Atlas this year, the change was undeniable.

In this episode of Detours, we talk about the growing movement of more women on start lines, how winning a gravel bike by drawing a 180-kilometer reindeer on Strava led to her first ultra two months later, the parallels between night shifts in the ER and racing through the night, and the event she's building in the Italian Alps – named after a mythological goat with uneven legs.

Learn more about the Dahu Trail

Follow Gala's adventures: @gala.giannini

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Twice Around the World: Vedangi Kulkarni on Impact, Limits and Letting Go

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Vedangi Kulkarni, Mel Webb) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 03:00:00 +0000

What if the thing waiting on the other side of "failure" is more valuable than the goal itself?

Vedangi Kulkarni is an ultra-endurance cyclist, adventurer, and two-time round-the-world rider. She first circumnavigated the globe at 19 – starting in Australia in 2018 and finishing on Christmas Eve, turning 20 somewhere along the way. Then in 2024, she set out again, starting and finishing in India, chasing the record for the fastest woman to cycle around the world. She didn't get the record. But what she found along the way might have been more valuable.

Now based in Inverness, Scotland, Vedangi runs The Adventure Shed, helping others plan solo expeditions, and is launching the Looking Beyond Barriers Adventure Fund to support the next generation of women adventurers.

In this episode of Detours we talk about the privilege of a single yes, what it took to keep going when her goal slipped out of reach, redefining success around impact over performance, and so much more.

Follow Vedangi's adventures: @thisisvedangi

Get your Detours & More Women on Startlines Stickers!!

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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Just Keep Pedalling: Millie Gibbons on Building Community & The Joy of Riding Uphill

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Millie Gibbons) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:27:03 +0000

Millie Gibbons loves riding her bike. And when I say loves, I mean she's Everested four times and her idea of a really good time is gathering eight women and riding 200K to France for a croissant.

Based in Girona and always surrounded by a girl gang, Millie has built community simply by showing up and doing what she loves. She's also a seriously quick racer, winning the women's race at Kromvojoj in 2025 and and Trans Pyrenees 2023.

In this episode, we talk about her proudest finish at Alps Divide on an underbiked gravel setup through every weather condition imaginable, the meditative simplicity of racing for a busy brain, and her philosophy: find your thing, have fun doing it.

Follow Millie's adventures: @milliegibbons

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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AMR 26 Reflections, HT550 Prep and Moving to Bristol!

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 15:36:10 +0000

There has been a LOT of life lived in the past few months.

Jake and I are in the middle of packing up our life in Vancouver ahead of our move to Bristol + Atlas Mountain Race just happened, so I thought we were long overdue for a bit of a catchup. I share a few reflections from Atlas Mountain Race, including what it felt like to see nearly 70 (!!!!) women on the start line this year.

We also talk about our quick trip through London (and finally meeting the Albion team in person), some Highland Trail 550 prep, new bike plans, and a little more about this big jump over the pond. Thanks as always for all your love and support for me and the show.

________________________

Albion just released an updated version of their Ultralight Insulated Jacket, now with a women’s-specific fit. If you’re looking for a lightweight and super packable jacket for long rides or bikepacking trips, you can check it out here. AND Detours listeners can use the code DETOURS15 for 15% off.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Almost back to life! We'll be back next week

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

It has been a whirlwind few weeks but we will be BACK next week with new episodes. In the meantime, check out all the incredible guests, re-listen to a fave (or check out The Mountain Races podcast).

Thanks for all the love and patience and see you SOON!

xx Mel

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Women of Atlas Mountain Race 2026

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 5 Feb 2026 21:08:50 +0000

Last year’s Atlas Mountain Race saw 30 women take place. This year, beginning in Beni-Mellal, 54 women will be on the starting line. Of course there is still a long way to go in seeing equal participation between the men and women, but to see a race nearly double it’s participation in one year is certainly a sign that momentum is building. We hope that their stories inspire you to take on your own adventure, and of course, to have more women on start lines.

Dotwatch the 2026 Atlas Mountain Race

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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Adventure More: Sami Sauri on Building A Life In The Mountains

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Sami Sauri) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:09:32 +0000

Three weeks after finishing second at Silk Road Mountain Race, Sami Sauri hiked up Mont Blanc in the dark and paraglided off the summit at dawn.

Sami is a mountain woman in every sense — she ski tours, she paraglides, she bikepacks remote corners of the world, and she documents it all through her lens. Based in Chamonix, she's proof you don't have to choose between competing and creating.

In this episode of Detours, we talk about the steep learning curve of ultracycling, getting a mentor to prepare for Silk Road Mountain Race, and the power of mantras. Sami shares how she went from signing up for her first ultra after a couple bottles of wine to podiums at the world's most demanding mountain races and how she's built a life that blends her creative and competitive pursuits.

Follow Sami on Instagram: @samisauri

Plus we have a bonus segment with our Sound Designer, Ben Crannell. Ben just got back from riding the Queen's Ransom route in Arizona and shares all about his adventure! If you're keen to hear more about the Queen's Ransom or Arizona Trail Race, check out our Detours episode with Kara Woolgar.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

A Peek Inside Mel's Highland Trail 550 Training: Building Back From Zero

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Mel shares a peek inside her training for the Highland Trail 550 in May. We go into building back from ground zero, incorporating more strength training and an easter egg for those who make it all the way to the end.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Permission to Change: Kara Folkerts on Trail Running, Bikepacking and Life on the Road

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Kara Folkerts) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Kara Folkerts doesn't fit in any boxes. She's a trail running guide, bikepacker, and has lived a nomadic life for the past ten years.

In this conversation, Kara opens up about identity, life on the road, and the freedom that comes with allowing yourself to change. We talk about sustaining a nomadic lifestyle, run travel, bike travel, solo adventures, and bikepacking with a partner. She also shares what's next — upcoming trips to Oman and Morocco, and her first ultra bikepacking race later this year.

Follow Kara's adventures: @karafolkerts

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

You Can Do Hard Things: Jana Kesenheimer, Two-Time Transcontinental Race Fastest Woman

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Jana Kesenheimer, Mel Webb) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

The Transcontinental Race is often described as the self-supported bikepacking race across Europe, drawing some of the biggest names in ultra cycling each year. Riders plot their own routes across the continent — this year, roughly 4,700 kilometers — linking a handful of mandatory control points and parcours. Every decision, from navigation to sleep and everything in between, is left entirely to them.

Jana Kesenheimer has won the women's race not once, but twice, lining up in 2025 alongside riders like Lael Wilcox and Cynthia Carson in the most competitive women's field TCR has ever seen.

In this conversation, Jana reflects on the road that led her to ultra-distance racing — and why, despite all her experience, it took years to feel ready to line up at TCR. We talk about her 2025 race, confidence, and self-trust. As a psychologist, Jana brings a rare perspective to the mental side of endurance racing, exploring how gender, motivation, and self-perception shape not just how we race, but whether we feel like we belong at the start line at all.

Follow Jana's adventures and racing: @jananas.banjana

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

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Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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Holiday Throwback: Hannah Simon's 2024 Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Hannah Simon) — Thu, 1 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Happy New Years Detours listeners! We'll be back on Jan. 8 with a brand new episode, but in the meantime we've got an awesome throwback to our first ever in person recording with Hannah Simon back in August 2024. This episode gets me fired up for the racing season ahead is the perfect companion for your next long ride.

***

Hannah Simon took the women's win at this year's Silk Road Mountain Race, in a time of 8 days 20 hours and 16 minutes. She navigated the 1939km and 30,000m+ with determination, resilience and grace. Not only was she the first woman home, but also landed 9th overall in an exceptionally deep field. In this episode we talk all about her preparation and the race itself. She shares so many great nuggets about her own personal hygiene, her kit and so much more. It was an absolute joy to get to record this episode in person together and to celebrate her achievement.

Stay up to date on Hannah's adventures by following her on Instagram.

If you loved today's episode please leave us a 5 star review wherever you listen and don't forget to subscribe.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

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Holiday Throwback: Alexandera Houchin on Racing with Heart & 10 Years of Bikepacking

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Alexandera Houchin) — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

I hope you're all having a wonderful holiday season! This week we're throwing it back to an episode recorded right around this time last year with the incredible Alexandera Houchin. It's one I've found myself listening to as I ramp up training for HT550 in May and every time I listen there is a new pearl of wisdom. I hope you enjoy and see you in 2026!

***

When I think of women in bikepacking, Alexandera Houchin is one of the first people that comes to mind. She’s raced the Tour Divide countless time and been a steadfast figure in encouraging more women to take on these big challenges. As an Indigenous woman and member of the Fond du Lac tribe, becoming a sponsored athlete, heck an athlete at all, was not necessarily a pathway she saw for herself growing up.

She joins me on the podcast to share about her journey to the bike, and how she’s made a career of this niche sport. We discuss what keeps her returning to these races year after year, her experiences navigating body image as someone with a bigger body, and how she’s redefining what success looks like in this next chapter of her career. Alexandera shares incredible insights on community, representation, and how showing up with her full heart have shaped her path in bikepacking.

Trigger Warning: We discuss topics related to body image and disordered eating between the 19:00 and 25:00 marks. If these are sensitive topics for you please feel free to skip this portion of the episode.

To keep up with Alexandera’s adventures follow her on Instagram @alexanderahouchin and read her writing on her Substack

As always, if you loved this episode, please leave us a review, follow wherever you listen and share it with a friend. Even better you can make a one time pledge of your support and any funds raised go back into creating this show.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Reflecting on a Wild 2025: Behind the Scenes of Detours and a Year at The Mountain Races with Mel Webb

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Helene Fromenty, Mel Webb) — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

This episode is a little different. For the final episode of the year, the roles are reversed as Detours alum and journalist Hélène Fromenty steps into the host seat, turning the mic back on Mel Webb, creator and host of the Detours podcast.

Together, we reflect on a wild 2025 and what the year really looked like behind the scenes of Detours — from building and sustaining an independent cycling podcast, to working on the ground with the Mountain Races, to navigating a complicated relationship with cycling during a season when riding took a back seat.

We talk about imposter feelings, representation in bikepacking and ultra-distance race coverage, creative sustainability, and the ongoing balance between personal goals and creating work that serves a wider community.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

The Spirit of Adventure: Kara Woolgar on AZT As Her First Ultra

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Kara Woolgar, Mel Webb) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Arizona Trail Race is a massive undertaking for any rider — rocky singletrack, long stretches of hike-a-bike, and a full bike portage through the Grand Canyon. It’s an especially bold choice for your first bikepacking race.

This week, Detours listener Kara Woolgar joins the show after finishing the AZT DFL, a result she’s genuinely proud of (and we are too!!). Kara describes herself as fun sized, which means she’s had to get creative with packing on an extra-small frame. She also has a long list of food allergies, making resupply on the trail uniquely challenging.

In our conversation, Kara shares how she got into bikepacking, how she built confidence through local rides and overnighters, and what it was like to spend 17 days working her way up the state of Arizona. From near race-ending blisters to a heartwarming note left for her in a hiking ledger, Kara shares all about her ride at the back of the pack.

Check out Kara's Instagram for write-ups on her experience: @karawoolgar

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Jake Cullen on his 2025 Triple Crown Challenge

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Jake Cullen, Mel Webb) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 20:35:04 +0000

The Triple Crown of bikepacking is a massive undertaking: three iconic routes, thousands of kilometres, and a season that demands a hell of a lot from you.

In this episode of Detours, I sit down with my husband, Jake, to look back on his year racing across the United States, and everything that he's learned from taking on the Triple Crown Challenge.

We talk about the early momentum he built on the Divide, the altitude sickness that nearly stopped him on the Colorado Trail, the slow, steady grind of the Arizona Trail, and so much more. We also get into what it's like to watch a loved one take on these races from the sidelines.

Follow Jake on Instagram: @_jakecullen_

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Hélène Fromenty on Her First MTB Ultra, Trans Pyrenees and Bikes as Way of Life

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Hélène Fromenty, Mel Webb) — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The beauty of riding is that it can hold so many versions of us at once — the traveller, the dreamer, the person who loves a challenge, and the person who wants to prioritize fun.

Hélène Fromenty is a journalist and bikepacker has been bike touring for years, but Silk Road was her first ever mountain bike ultra — raced as a pair with her partner Stefan — and the experience opened up an entirely new corner of the sport for her. She doesn’t see herself as a racer, and approaches riding through a lens of curiosity, connection, and joy. But after Silk Road, she wanted to understand what she could do on her own. So she lined up solo at Trans Pyrenees Gravel Edition… and won the women’s race.

In this conversation, Hélène shares:

how she learned to mountain bike just months before lining up at Silk Road Mountain Race
navigating the tension between protecting the joy of riding and wanting to see her own potential
what her life as a journalist actually looks like day-to-day (and how she squeezes training into it)
imposter feelings after SRMR and how Trans Pyrenees helped her find her footing
the mechanical disaster that almost derailed her race — and the calm she surprised herself with
and how bikes are so much more than a sport

Follow Hélène on Instagram: @hfrome

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Weronika Szalas on Bikepacking Central Asia

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

There’s a certain kind of freedom that comes with slowing down: giving yourself time to stay, to notice, and to let a place leave its mark on you.

Over the years, Weronika Szalas’s mindset has shifted more and more toward slow travel — working in the winters and touring in the summers. This year, she spent nearly five months on the road with her partner, bikepacking through Central Asia.

In this episode of Detours, Weronika all about her adventures on the road, from Google Translate disasters to long days on remote tracks, quiet dinners with strangers, and finally making it to Kyrgyzstan, a place she’d dreamed of for years.

We get into:

How slow travel changed the way she experiences new places
The emptiness of the Mongolian steppe and navigating without a shared language
The surreal reality of riding through Western China and dealing with constant surveillance
Highlights from bikepacking in Kyrgyzstan including Karakol, Peak Lenin, Juku Pass, and the Pamir Highway/Bartang Valley
How her definition of freedom has evolved, and what it feels like to settle back into regular life after months outside

LISTENER SHOUTOUT: As a little bonus content this week we have a voice note from Kara Woolgar who finished the Arizona Trail 800 as her FIRST EVER bikepacking race! Congrats Kara and thanks so much for sharing your story!

Follow Weronika on Instagram: @weronika.szalas

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Endurance Nutrition 101: Uri Carlson on Building a Fuelling Foundation

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Uri Carlson, Inner Wild Nutrition, Mel Webb) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Whether you’re fuelling for a multi-day bikepacking race, trying to get more out of your training, or simply hoping to feel a little better on your everyday rides, what and when you eat can change everything.

This week on Detours, I’m joined by Uri Carlson, a sports dietitian who helps athletes at every level build sustainable fuelling strategies — for daily training, long days in the saddle, and multi-day adventures alike.

Together, we get into what truly supports strong endurance nutrition. From building a solid day-to-day foundation to knowing when a full meal mid-ultra might be exactly the right call, Uri breaks down the science, the strategy, and the real-world flexibility that long-ride fuelling requires.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to build a strong endurance nutrition foundation, and why consistency matters more than perfection
How to fuel for training, racing, and recovery, including ways to avoid the dreaded gut bomb
Practical fuelling for sensitive stomachs, back-to-back long days, and multi-day bikepacking races
How much protein endurance athletes truly need, and when timing matters
How to make good choices at a gas-station resupply (and why sometimes a Snickers is exactly the right call)
Why carbohydrates remain the backbone of endurance performance, no matter what trends say
What you need to know about hydration and electrolytes to stay consistent on long rides

Follow Uri on Instagram: @uri_carlson_nutrition

Learn more about Uri's nutrition services here

Have more questions about nutrition that you want us to cover on a future episode? Send us a message on Instagram or email thedetourspodcast@gmail.com

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Quinda Verheul on Finding Purpose Beyond Performance

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Quinda Verheul, Mel Webb) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When you’re chasing big goals, it’s easy to get tunnel vision — to pour everything you have into one idea of what success should look like. What you should do next. How far you should go. The kind of person you should be.

This year, artist and bikepack racer Quinda Verheul set out to take on the Triple Crown of bikepacking: the Tour Divide, Colorado Trail Race, and Arizona Trail Race. After the Tour Divide, her year took a turn in a direction she couldn't imagine.

In this conversation, Quinda opens up about the pressure to keep proving yourself, the vulnerability of letting go, and the freedom that comes from redefining success on your own terms. We talk about the realities of professional ultra-cycling, the mental and financial load of chasing big races, and the courage it takes to change direction when your goals stop serving you.

Follow Quinda on Instagram: @quindaverheul_

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Sarah Diekmeyer on Racing Her First Ultra and What She Learned from Badlands

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Sarah Diekmeyer, Mel Webb) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

There’s a certain magic in firsts — especially your first bikepacking race. They’re full of unknowns, and no matter how much you prepare, nothing ever goes exactly to plan.

For Sarah Diekmeyer, a gravel racer with Enough Cycling, this year’s Badlands was her first ultra — a leap into the world of bikepacking races she once thought were only for “other people.” What followed was a crash course in everything that comes with your first ultra: the highs, the hunger, the hallucinations, and the hard lessons learned along the way.

In this episode, Sarah shares the unfiltered behind the scenes of her first bikepacking race, from fuelling disasters and sleep deprivation to the small moments of magic that made it all worth it.

Follow Sarah on Instagram: @sdiekie_

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Marei Moldenhauer on Recovery, Rebuilding, and the Road Back From Injury

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Marei Moldenhauer, Mel Webb) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Marei Moldenhauer burst into 2025 with a win at the Atlas Mountain Race in February. No doubt eager to build on that early momentum and with big goals on the horizon for the remainder of the year, she was halted in her tracks after an accident skiing left her with a broken leg. The calendar wiped clear, and a long road to recovery ahead, Marei was forced to recalibrate and rebuild from ground zero.

In this episode she shares the behind the scenes of building back to form, what she's learned about managing expectations and how she's looking to the future, reimagining how she sets goals.

Follow Marei on Instagram: @marei.mol

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Roz Osborne on Silk Road Mountain Race, Motherhood & Ultra

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Roz Osborne, Mel Webb) — Thu, 9 Oct 2025 16:23:07 +0000

When Roz Osborne signed up for the Silk Road Mountain Race, her motivation was simple: to prove her son wrong.

Living in Cornwall with her husband and 12-year-old son, Roz had spent years pouring her energy into family and work. But when she left her job and saw applications open for the race, something inside her clicked. She wanted to do something entirely for herself — not as a mum, or a wife, or an employee, but as Roz.

In this episode of Detours, Roz shares her journey from that moment of saying yes out loud, to standing on the start line in Kyrgyzstan, to crossing the finish line two weeks later. She talks about the guilt and joy of chasing a goal that’s purely your own, the challenge of preparing for an ultra as a parent, and the freedom that comes from carving out space for yourself.

Before our conversation, you’ll also hear the voice note Roz recorded before the race as part of our Women of SRMR Detours Episode — a message to her future self that still rings true today.

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Cynthia Carson on Racing the Transcontinental Race & The Art of the Comeback

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Cynthia Carson, Mel Webb) — Thu, 2 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

After a crash just weeks before the start of the 2024 Transcontinental Race, Cynthia spent months recovering—stitches, broken teeth, and the mental weight of losing the race she’d prepared for. A year later, she returned to the start line determined to give it everything she had.

In this conversation, Cynthia reflects on:

The steep learning curve of self-routing and how small decisions shaped her race
Racing in one of the deepest women’s fields TCR has ever seen
Recovering from a devastating crash and rebuilding confidence on the bike
The mantras and mental tricks that carried her through the darkest moments
What it means to truly embrace the highs and lows, in racing and in life

It’s a full-circle moment to have Cynthia back on the pod. If you've been here since the beginning you'll remember her as our original co-host and this pod would not exist without her!

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Julie Von Gruenigen on Racing on Her Own Terms

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Spend a few minutes with Julie von Gruenigen and you'll hear it right away, she loves riding her bike. On the surface ultra-cycling can feel like it has one recipe for success: sleep little, push past your limits and measure yourself by the podium. But of course, if you dig a little deeper, there's so much more to it.

In just a few years, Julie has gone from triathlon to the front of races like Badlands, Traka Adventure, and most recently winning the women's race at the Alps Divide. But she doesn't measure success or meaning from her ranking.

In this episode, she shares how she feels like a "spectator" when she's found herself at the front of races, what she's learned about balancing ambition with self-care and while listening to yourself and centering the experience around joy may be the most important skill in bike pack racing.

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Chris Burkard on Taking Joy Seriously & Life Lessons from the Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Chris Burkard, Mel Webb) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Chris Burkard is no stranger to grand adventures. He’s built his career chasing light at the edges of the world, photographing athletes in their element, from the ocean to glaciers, sides of mountains, and continues to test himself on countless expeditions — including a sixteen-day finish at the Tour Divide.

But the Silk Road Mountain Race remained an elusive someday ride, shadowed by imposter syndrome, questioning if he really belonged on the startline. This year he took the leap, training with new focus and deep respect for the mountains.

Chock full of life lessons, Chris reflects on his time in Kyrgyzstan, the lessons he carried from his time on the Tour Divide, and how he’s learned that fear and readiness can coexist. He shares stories of crushing loneliness — the realization of how far from home and familiarity he really was — and moments of elation, from the tears of relief when the headwind finally broke to the overwhelming joy of reaching the summit of the final pass. Most of all, he reflects on the power of vulnerability, the importance of taking joy seriously, and the truth that so much of what these experiences give us, more often than not, has nothing to do with the bike.

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Kyrgyzstan, returning home and what's next

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 20:37:06 +0000

I am back after a month away from home! This is episode is a somewhat chaotic catchup of where I've been, what I've been up to and things I'm looking forward to this fall.

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We are so back... kinda!

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 4 Sep 2025 17:01:35 +0000

We are so back... kinda! We'll be resuming normal episodes next week and want to know, what do you want to hear on Detours? Shoot us a dm @detourscycling or @melwwebb on Instagram, send us an email at thedetourspodcast@gmail.com or comment on Spotify.

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Women of Silk Road Mountain Race 2025

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 18:08:33 +0000

In ultra distance bikepack racing, women typically make up just over 10% of the starting line. In recent years, we've begun to see that number grow with a number of efforts popping up to encourage more women to take to the start line and give the sport a go. This year, 30 women will be lining up to take on the Silk Road Mountain race, which is often regarded as the pinnacle of off-road bike pack racing. They'll travel more than 1,900 kilometers across the country, into the high mountains, across rivers and valleys, and into some of the most remote and rugged destinations of Kyrgyzstan. This episode is a celebration of the women lining up this year. They come from all corners of the globe, and it's a spotlight on their individual stories.

Dotwatch the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race

Listen to the race podcast

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Jake Cullen on 16 days down the Tour Divide

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 7 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Tour Divide sits on nearly every bikepack racers’ bucket lists—a someday ride. Someday, when there’s more time, more money, more fitness. Someday when it fits neatly into life. But the reality is, there never is a perfect moment to take on a ride of this magnitude. This year, for Jake, “someday” became this year.

With just four months to prepare, Jake lined up in Banff for the 2024 Tour Divide, ready to see what he was capable of. Sixteen days and 4,400 kilometers later, he arrived in Antelope Wells, in 19th overall. It was wild to sit at home and watch his dot fly down the Divide, and beyond special to surprise him at the border in Antelope Wells.

In this episode, Jake reflects on the reality of chasing a big dream and what it takes to see it through. He shares how he’s learned to find his own rhythm and trust his own instincts, embrace the unknown, and so much more. Plus, we talk about the dynamic of supporting each other’s ultra racing, and what it was like to be on the other side dotwatching.

Topics include:

The decision to finally go for it—and what training looked like with four months to prepare
Learning to race his own race
Gear choices, including a bikepacking bags, camping gear and more
Peanut butter mud, windstorms, and post office floors
Mental lows, unexpected highs, and crossing the finish line after 16 days
What he learned about himself out there on the Divide
Up next Colorado Trail Race

P.S. If you’re a new listener, Jake is my husband :)

Follow Jake on Instagram: @_jakecullen_

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Five Times Unbound XL: Rachel Wills on Ritual, Resilience, and the Allure of the Flint Hills

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Rachel Wills, Mel Webb) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Every year, the Flint Hills of Kansas call Rachel Wills back to Unbound XL. At 350 miles, the race is a test of endurance: relentless heat, drivetrain-clogging mud, a horizon that stretches on forever, and a thousand sharp, punchy climbs that chip away at you one by one.

Rachel has lined up in five times: finished four, scratched once. And with each ride, she's uncovered a new experience. For her, Unbound XL has become so much more than a race. It’s become a ritual. A way of grounding herself in place, community, and the kind of effort that reveals something new every time.

In this episode, Rachel reflects on what’s kept her coming back and how the Flint Hills have shaped her over time. She shares about the power of all women’s spaces like Velocio // Exploro, lessons from big days in the saddle, why tandem wheels are surprisingly great to follow, and the descending advice she picked up from Rebecca Rusch.

Topics include:

What makes Unbound XL so challenging (and so special)
The emotional weight of scratching and coming back
Growth through repetition and ritual
Riding with Velocio // Exploro and the power of a women’s team
Letting go of racing for results—and finding something deeper

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Community First: Making Bikepacking More Inclusive with Bikepacking Roots

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The pathway into bikepacking isn’t always straightforward—and even with endless routes and resources online, it can still be hard to know where to begin or how to find your people.

That’s where Bikepacking Roots comes in: a nonprofit working to make bikepacking more inclusive, accessible, and community-driven.

In this episode, Noelle Battle and Danielle Parnes share what it takes to create a truly welcoming ride—from addressing common barriers like gear and confidence to building non-competitive spaces where people can learn, grow, and show up exactly as they are.

Topics include:

Noelle and Danielle’s very different entries into the sport—and how that shapes the work they do today
Their BIPOC Bike Adventure Program and it's fuelling grassroots leadership and gear libraries across the U.S.
Their Steward Network and how it connects ride leaders, organizers, and route developers across North America
Tips for planning inclusive, beginner-friendly group rides
Why their upcoming summits are about so much more than bikepacking

Resources

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On The Edge: Molly Weaver’s World Record Ride

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Molly Weaver, Mel Webb) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

On July 6th, after 21 days, 10 hours and 48 minutes, Molly Weaver rolled into Tower Bridge in London—becoming the first woman to set a world record for circumnavigating mainland Britain by bike, breaking a time that had stood for 40 years.

A former Women’s WorldTour rider, Molly stepped away from racing after a crash and burnout in 2017. She found her way into ultra-distance events, chasing big landscapes, solo efforts, and above all, fun. But she never fully committed to going all in. Because when you don’t give it everything, failure can’t quite cut as deep.

Still, the feeling lingered: maybe she hadn’t yet seen what she was truly capable of. Maybe her past didn’t have to define her future. This year she decided to go all in, chasing the World Record a World Record. Riding 7,732 kilometers around the edge of Britain would take structure, discipline, and belief. And in the process, the effort itself became a form of healing.

In this episode, Molly shares the story behind the ride, how she rebuilt her relationship with trying, how her crew carried her through the hardest days, and how raising money for the RNLI gave the effort meaning beyond herself.

Topics include:

Circumnavigating mainland Britain by bike
Setting a world record and what it really takes
Healing through structure and sustained effort
Letting go of fear and redefining failure
The difference between a self-supported and supported effort
Fundraising for the RNLI and riding with purpose
And yes… the dot-watching cat

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Follow Molly's adventures on Instagram: @mollyweaver94

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Washed Away: Kerry MacPhee on HT550 2025 and Finding Joy in Going Fast

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What do you do when your bike gets swept down a flooded Scottish river, you're soaked to the bone, and miles from the nearest village? Well... you'll have to listen to find out!

Kerry is a blazing-fast Scottish ultra racer with deep roots in mountain biking. After racing the Highland Trail 550 for the first time in 2024, finishing just under three hours off the women’s record, she came back in 2025 with her eyes set on it. What followed was an absolutely nail-biting race between her and eventual women's winner Emma Bateup (our last guest), with both women pushing the pace through torrential rain, flash floods, and highland bog.

In this conversation, Kerry breaks down what really happened out there: from stormy river crossings to the moment her bike got pulled away by the current, and the long, cold walk that followed. We talk about how she's built an off-road racing life while juggling three jobs, her past as an elite mountain biker and triathlete, and how she's navigating what it means to race fast, chase joy, and tell stories that bring others along for the ride.

Topics include:

Highland Trail 550
Racing with joy vs. racing to win, and why it’s not either/or
Fueling, body image, and strength in endurance sport
Sharing the dots and building community through storytelling
Working three jobs while riding at the top level of bikepacking

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Follow Kerry's adventures on Instagram: @kerrymacphee

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Racing Season is Here! Crying in the Desert & Other Summer Highlights

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 3 Jul 2025 17:25:22 +0000

The summer racing season in the world of ultra and bikepacking is in full swing! In this episode, I’m catching you up on what’s been happening and what's ahead.

From surprising Jake at the finish of the Tour Divide (yes, I cried... so much crying!) to managing media at Hellenic, it’s been a full few weeks. I share women's racing highlights from this season so far, including Tour Divide, Highland Trail 550, Hellenic Mountain Race, Kromvojoj, El Piri, and the Trans Balkans Race.

I also look ahead to what’s coming next: Bright Midnight, Transcontinental Race where nearly 100 women(!!!) will be lining up this year. and of course, the Silk Road Mountain Race. Even though I won’t be racing this year, I’m excited to return to Kyrgyzstan for a third time and be back in the ultra bubble with the media crew.

And inevitably, I’ve missed some races—so if there’s a standout story you think should be featured, I’m all ears.

Plus, I want to hear from you. If you’ve been on an overnighter, a big summer ride, or a bikepacking trip you’re proud of, send me a voice note to thedetourspodcast@gmail.com I’d love to feature your stories on the show and celebrate adventures big and small.

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Emma Bateup on Going Full Send at Highland Trail 550 and Beyond

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:45:49 +0000

Emma Bateup is no stranger to going full send into the deep end. Whether it's tossing her bike across a flooded river or screaming into the Scottish mountains during a low moment, she’s all in. Just a couple of years into ultra racing, Emma already has a resume that includes wins in the women's race at Tour te Waipounamu, a fourth overall at the Great Southern Brevet, and now a breakout performance at the 2025 Highland Trail 550—where she won the women’s race and placed 7th overall.

In this episode, Emma shares the story behind that ride, from chasing records to losing her multi-tool in a creek and navigating Scotland’s notorious river crossings. We talk about fuelling mistakes (pro tip: never skip a resupply), what happened when her chafing hit code red, and how close competition can unlock your best performance, even if your rival’s rain jacket is way too easy to spot.

We also get into her journey into bikepacking, how ultra racing compares to enduro and XC racing, and why she thinks crying is a superpower. Emma’s energy is contagious, and this conversation is full of laughs, honest reflections, and the kind of type-two stories that make you want to grab your bike and go.

Topics include:

Emma’s 2025 Highland Trail 550 win (and the chaos along the way)
Racing head-to-head with Kerry MacPhee
River crossings, hail storms, and a tragic lost multi-tool
Her first ultra at Tour Te Waipounamu and what she’s learned since
The trade-offs of ambition, joy, and full-time racing
Coaching kids, racing XC, and what’s next

Follow Emma's adventures on Instagram: @em_b8up

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Get to Know Nathalie Baillon [ReRelease]

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

I've been getting loads of questions as this year's Tour Divide is underway – who is Nathalie Baillon? After leading for the first 4 days of the race, she suffered a major mechanical just after Fleecer Ridge, forcing her to return to Butte and get a new wheel. Back on the road, she's chasing hard to catch Lael Wilcox. Both women are ahead of Lael's record pace, and gunning to be the first woman to reach Antelope Wells.

Originally released in March 2024, in this episode Nathalie shares about her entry into the world of ultra-racing and offers a deep dive on her mindset as a racer. She has quite an impressive resume, including joint first woman at Silk Road Mountain Race in August 2023, the fastest woman to ride across Europe, second woman at Atlas Mountain Race 2024 and more.

I hope you'll join me in cheering her (and the rest of the Tour Divide racers) on. Watch the dots here

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Women of Tour Divide 2025

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:48:23 +0000

Each year, on the second Friday in June, hundreds of riders gather outside the YMCA in Banff, Alberta, to begin what’s widely considered bikepacking’s most iconic ultra-endurance race: the Tour Divide. Riders follow the Continental Divide across 4,400 kilometers, tackling rugged dirt roads, remote wilderness, high mountain passes, and variable weather on their way to Antelope Wells, New Mexico.

While more women take to the start year after year, they still only make up ~10% of participants. In 2025, 29 of the 238 riders registered on Trackleaders are women. This episode of Detours is dedicated to those women.

In an effort to celebrate the women of this year’s Tour Divide, and to inspire more to line up in the future, I collected voice notes from riders across the globe—sharing who they are, why they’re racing, and what brought them to this start line. Inevitably, I wasn't able to capture everyone's voices despite my best efforts and internet sleuthing.

You’ll hear from first-timers, returning riders, dot-watching converts, and those chasing the Tour Divide women’s record. Their stories speak to why representation matters, why adventure is worth the risk, and why more women belong at the start line.

I hope you'll join me in cheering them on and watching their dots as they make their way from Banff to Antelope Wells.

Follow the dots here

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In the Field at Hellenic Mountain Race: Listen to the Mountain Races Podcast

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 26 May 2025 10:39:47 +0000

I'm out in the field reporting from the Hellenic Mountain Race and dropping daily episodes through June 1st! If you're after your bikepacking, ultracycling, and adventure fix, head over to the Mountain Races podcast and subscribe so you don’t miss a thing.

Detours will be back with regularly scheduled programming the first week of June!

Listen to the Mountain Races Podcast on Spotify, Apple and wherever you get your podcasts.

Follow @hellenicmountainrace on Instagram for daily visual updates throughout the race.

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Nelson Trees on Building The Mountain Races

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 15 May 2025 02:06:13 +0000

Most people in the bikepacking world know Nelson Trees as the mind behind the Silk Road Mountain Race—a race that has become legendary for its beauty, difficulty, and unpredictability. But before he was designing some of the most talked-about routes in ultra cycling, Nelson was a mountaineer, a Deliveroo rider, and someone who once rode a homemade carbon tandem from Shanghai to Paris.

In this episode, he shares about his path to founding The Mountain Races: a series of fixed-route, unsupported events that now span Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, Greece, and soon, Türkiye. He shares about his first experiences with bikepack racing at the Transcontinental Race and how that event inspired the Silk Road Mountain Race, what it actually takes to build a good race route, and the power of experiences where the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Nelson shares stories from the early editions of SRMR—including a bull trampling a rider’s bike—and offers a sneak peek at the newest addition to the series: Taurus Mountain Race, coming in 2026.

Mentioned in this episode:

Silk Road Mountain Race
Atlas Mountain Race
Hellenic Mountain Race
Taurus Mountain Race (coming 2026)
Transcontinental Race
Highland Trail 550
Mike Hall

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For the Vibes: Alyssa Gonzalez on Building Inclusive Spaces and Joyful Movement in Cycling

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 2 May 2025 02:54:31 +0000

It’s wild how something as simple as walking into a bike shop can make you feel like you don’t belong. It's a feeling many folks, especially marginalized identities, have encountered, and one that Alyssa Gonzalez has made her goal to change. She wears so many hats. She is a designer advocate, cyclist runner, community organizer, model, content creator, and she owns a bike shop. And at the heart of everything she does, is the goal of elevating marginalized communities and creating welcoming spaces for folks in the outdoors.

Her bike shop, which she co-founded, Treehouse Cyclery, is a community-first space, redefining what it means to be a bike shop. She also leads the Colorado chapter of Radical Adventure Riders, organizing events, rides, and camps that help women, trans, and non-binary folks find belonging in adventure cycling.

In this conversation, Alyssa shares how she got into the outdoors later in life, what happened when she signed up for a 600-mile bikepacking race after just one year of riding, and how she’s learned to tune out the pressure to perform and lean into joy. Whether she’s leading a group ride, fixing bikes, or talking to new riders about their first gear purchase, Alyssa is helping reshape cycling culture, and always bringing the vibes.

Check out Alyssa's bikeshop Treehouse Cyclery in Boulder, Colorado

Follow Alyssa's adventures on Instagram: @__alyssagonzalez

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Building Confidence in Bikepacking Through Mentorship: Athlyn Cathcart-Keays and Roll Models

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When we talk about barriers to entry and bike packing, so many things come to mind. For many, it's gear. For others, it's about confidence. For many folks, especially women and marginalized genders, it can be about not knowing where to start, not seeing people like you doing the thing and feeling like maybe this world wasn't built with you and mine.

On Detours we talk a lot about getting more women into bike packing, but how do we actually do that? What does it take? What does it really take to make someone feel like they belong? Roll Models is one answer.

It's a mentorship program started by Athlyn and her co-creator, Cordelia in Bristol UK that pairs women in marginalized genders with more experienced riders. The idea is simple: a mentor and mentee relationship. So folks have someone to ride with, ask questions to, and learn from someone in your corner, which can make all the difference when you're finding your footing in the world of bike packing.

In this episode we talk about:

How Athlyn’s own road into bikepacking: starting on a single-speed bike with a yoga mat strapped to the back rack
The inspiration she found in a mentorship program in British Columbia
How Roll Models was built and how it works
The surprising barriers mentors face, not just mentees
How we can truly create a welcoming environment in the world of bikepacking
And her big goal for the year: taking on the Highland Trail 550, her first bikepacking race

As always, thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast this year.

Follow Athlyn on Instagram: @athlynck

Follow Roll Models on Instagram: @__rollmodels

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcast

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Do I Always Need to Race? Mel Catches Up On Life Lately

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 13:58:21 +0000

It's just me, Mel, on the mic, and I'm finally sharing a long overdue catchup. Today I share some behind-the-scenes moments from Morocco and the Atlas Mountain Race, and how a lot of recent experiences have had me rethinking my relationship to bikes, racing, and movement in general.

As always, a huge thank you to Albion for supporting Detours this year.

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling
Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb
Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Tandemonium with Shona and Rich Oldfield: Bikepack Racing on a Tandem

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

What happens when you take a bike built for two and bring it to some of the most rugged, remote and challenging bikepacking in the world? You get tandemonium, and honestly, Shona and Rich Oldfield wouldn’t have it any other way.

Shona and Rich live in Manchester, UK, where they run Keep Pedalling, a small but mighty bike shop dedicated to supplying help, advice, and bikes for adventures. Over the past decade, they’ve quietly become legends in the bikepack racing world — not for winning races, but for how they show up: almost always together, and usually on a tandem. It’s long, it’s heavy, and by most standards absolutely the “wrong” bike for these races — which, of course, makes it perfect for them.

In this episode, we talk about what it’s actually like to race a tandem off-road: how they divide roles on the bike, what happens when one of them wants to sleep (and the other doesn’t), and why Rich refuses to use the brakes. They also share some wild hallucination stories, dog packing with their pup Olive, and how the tandem has become a symbol of their approach to life: good-humoured, stubborn, and quietly joyful.

Shona and Rich remind us that these events are supposed to be fun, and that there’s no “right” way to do these things, just the way that works for you.

As always, thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast this year.

Follow Shona and Rich on Instagram: @keep_pedalling

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcast

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Sherry Cardona’s Off-Road Ultra-Cycling Journey: From the Transcontinental Race to Atlas

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 03:30:25 +0000

“I was in the middle of nowhere in Albania on a road bike, and there was no way out—I had to go through the parkour. So I told my husband, ‘I can’t ride it, but I’m going to walk it.’ He rode ahead, and I just kept walking, waking him up every time I passed by. We spent 12 hours like that, but we made it out. And I said to myself, ‘That’s never going to happen again. I’m going to learn how to ride off-road." —Sherry Cardona

After struggling through a brutal 70-kilometer off-road section in her first Transcontinental Race (TCR), Sherry Cardona made a promise to herself: she would learn to ride off-road. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s now taken on off-road bikepacking races like the Bohemian Border Bash, Badlands, and recently completed the Atlas Mountain Race, her first mountain bike ultra—a completely different challenge that tested her technical skills, race mindset, and ability to adapt.

Sherry has quickly become a recognizable name in distance racing, not only for her impressive results—including winning TCR in a pair, twice—but for her ability to tell compelling stories about the highs, lows and realities of pushing limits on the bike through her YouTube channel, Buzzalong Cycling.

In this episode, we dive into Sherry's ultra-cycling journey, from picking up a road bike for the first time at age 27, to racing TCR, Badlands, and now the Atlas Mountain Race. We talk about racing in a pair vs. solo, how she built confidence on technical terrain, and what it takes to push through when things aren’t going to plan.

In this episode we talk about:

Her transition from road ultras to gravel and mountain bike racing
Racing in the Transcontinental Race in a pair with her husband: the challenges, teamwork, and life lessons
How she built confidence on technical terrain (including a mountain bike instructor who thought she had "no hope")
Atlas Mountain Race: expectations vs. reality, adapting when things got tough, and learning to ride mountain bike terrain
Surviving on honey, omelets, and Moroccan tea
How music (and a little bit of Taylor Swift) helped her get through hard moments
Her approach to training, gear choices, and what she’d do differently for if she were to race AMR again

Follow Sherry's adventures:

Follow Sherry on Instagram @sherry.cycling
Watch her Atlas Mountain Race video
Subscribe to her podcast Buzzalong Cycling

As always, a huge thank you to Albion for supporting Detours this year.

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling
Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb
Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Inviting Adventure: Jen Adams & Eric Betteridge on the Log Driver's Waltz

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 03:38:11 +0000

"The Log Driver’s Waltz isn’t a race; it’s an invitation. An opportunity for anyone curious about bikepacking to show up, ride at their own pace, and share the experience. It brings people together—whether you’re pushing yourself against the clock or taking time to enjoy the landscape and small communities along the way.”

That’s how Jen Adams and Eric Betteridge describe the Log Driver’s Waltz—a stunning 800-kilometer bikepacking loop weaving through Ontario’s Ottawa Valley and into Quebec. For them, it’s all about community, shared experience, and adventure at your own pace.

In this episode, Jen and Eric share how decades of adventure together—17-day canoe trips, countless rides through their home region, and racing the Tour Divide—led them to create this unique route. The Log Driver’s Waltz isn’t just about the terrain (though with 75% unpaved roads, forested trails, and rugged paths, it’s no joke). It’s about inviting riders to show up, ride how they want, and share the experience.

We also dive into what it’s like to ride as a couple, how they balance different rhythms on and off the bike, and why building an inclusive bikepacking community matters. Plus, Jen and Eric explain how the Log Driver's Waltz became part of the St. Lawrence Bikepacking Triple Crown and how they’ve intentionally created stepping stones—from accessible rallies to the full 800k loop—to help more people get into bikepacking.

If you’ve ever been curious about lining up for a Grand Depart, wondered how to build confidence for your first bikepacking trip, or thought about what it takes to ride (and create) a route like this, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we talk about:

The story behind the Log Driver’s Waltz and its ties to Canadian culture
How decades of adventure—from canoe trips to the Tour Divide—shaped Jen and Eric’s approach to route building
Riding as a couple: balancing different strengths, rhythms, and goals on the bike
The creation of the St. Lawrence Bikepacking Triple Crown and fostering connections across the region
Why community-building, safety, and accessibility are at the heart of the Log Driver’s Waltz
How the route offers something for everyone—from those chasing FKTs to riders seeking a leisurely multi-day adventure
Tips for tackling the route, including bike setups, resupply points, and managing its surprisingly punchy climbs

Details & Links for the Log Driver's Waltz

2025 Grand Depart: August 23rd,8 AM, Almonte Hills, Ontario, Canada
Spring Rally: For those who want to experience the route in more digestible chunks
Log Driver’s Waltz Official Website
Log Driver’s Waltz Tips & Planning Facebook Group
Follow Jen & Eric’s updates and rally details on social media @thelogdriverswaltz

As always, a huge thank you to Albion for supporting Detours this year.

Follow along:

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling
Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb
Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Racing Free: Mascha Wahlig on Confidence & Mental Strength

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 05:11:40 +0000

"I want to finish with a big smile on my face."

That’s Mascha Wahlig’s goal for the 2025 Atlas Mountain Race. Last year, Mascha lined up at Atlas Mountain Race, her second-ever ultra-endurance bikepacking event. She was fast, pushing herself to the limit, but she was also overwhelmed. The intensity of the race, the sheer number of riders, and the pressure she put on herself—it all built up, culminating in a moment of panic and paralysis in the middle of the desert when her cleat broke.

She eventually got it fixed (with a bit of super glue and grit), but mentally? The race left her drained. Even months later, she found herself experiencing panic on training rides in the dark, reliving the helplessness of that night in Morocco. Instead of pushing it down, she did the work. She sought help, developed strategies to manage fear and build mental strength, and slowly rebuilt her confidence. And it worked.

Since Atlas, Mascha has gone on to win both the Hellenic Mountain Race and Sneak Peeks, proving to herself that mental performance is just as crucial as physical fitness in ultra-cycling and bikepacking. Now, she’s coming back to Atlas Mountain Race 2025, but this time, with a totally different mindset.

She’s racing for herself—not for a number, not for a podium—but to ride with confidence, be present, and take in the experience.

In this episode we talk about:

The mental battles of ultra-cycling and bikepacking—panic, fear, and self-doubt.
How Mascha built mental resilience and confidence after last year’s Atlas Mountain Race.
What it takes to win ultra-endurance bikepacking races like Hellenic and Sneak Peeks.
Strategies for handling stress and mental fatigue in long-distance racing.
The power of self-compassion, managing expectations, and racing with a freer mind.
How to prepare mentally and physically for events like Atlas Mountain Race.

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled with confidence in endurance sports, or felt overwhelmed by the sheer challenge of a long-distance race, this episode is for you.

As always, thank you to Albion Cycling for supporting Detours this year.

Links

Follow Mascha on Instagram
Follow Mel on Instagram
Follow Detours on Instagram
Dotwatch Atlas Mountain Race

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Riding in the Moment with Marei Moldenhauer

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 04:01:08 +0000

In this episode, I chat with Marei Moldenhauer—a rising star in ultra-cycling and bikepacking. Marei balances a demanding career as a doctor while excelling in the world of endurance racing. Her recent accomplishments include winning the women’s race at Bright Midnight in Norway (where she also finished fourth overall!!!) and finishing second just two and a half hours behind the women’s winner at the Transcontinental Race (TCR) 2023.

We discuss Marei’s entry pathway into ultra-cycling, from receiving her first steel bike as a gift from her brother to becoming a competitive bikepacker. She shares her training approach, how she’s preparing for the Atlas Mountain Race, and her love of climbing. Marei also opens up about the challenges she faces as a celiac athlete, her strategies for fueling during ultra-endurance events, and her unexpected preference for Katjes over Haribo gummy bears!

Marei will be one of the many women racing this year's Atlas Mountain Race and I can't wait to see how she gets on.

Thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast and my adventures this year!

Follow Marei on Instagram: @marei.mol

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcast

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Do you have a story from your own adventures you want to share with us?

We’d love to feature your story on the podcast! Write us a short piece of 200–300 words describing a memorable adventure or experience related to bikepacking, ultra-cycling, or outdoor exploration. Whether it’s your first ultra-endurance race, an unforgettable moment with locals on the trail, a tough lesson learned in the wild, or a surprising detour that changed your journey, we want to hear about it.

Stories don’t have to be epic—it could be something simple but meaningful, like discovering a hidden gem on your favourite route, overcoming a fear on the bike, or connecting with fellow riders in an unexpected way. Send your write-up to thedetourspodcast@gmail.com, and we’ll feature selected stories on future episodes!

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

BIG NEWS! Mel's reflections on 2024 and what's in for 2025

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 14:35:13 +0000

We’ve got some big news! I am so so stoked to share that Detours is now presented by Albion Cycling. They’ve been fans of the show since day one and to have their support feels pretty darn cool.

In this solo episode, I reflect on a transformative 2024—a year defined by big goals, unexpected detours and a ton of personal grown.

Through listener questions, I share more about the ups and downs of racing, how I balance work, life, and ultra-endurance training and everything in between. I also share what I’m most excited about for the year ahead.

I’d love your feedback on today’s episode — what did you think? What do you want to hear more of on solo episodes in the future?

Do you have a story from your own adventures you want to share with us? Submit it to be featured in an upcoming episode! Email us at thedetourspodcast@gmail.com

This episode was brought to you by Albion, the very best cycling kit, designed to help you stay outside longer.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcast

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Don't forget to subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Alexandera Houchin on racing with heart and 10 years of bikepacking

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 15:36:33 +0000

To keep up with Alexandera’s adventures follow her on Instagram @alexanderahouchin and read her writing on her Substack

In an effort to bring you even better episodes in 2025 please fill out our audience survey and share your honest feedback on the show — your support is so appreciated ❤️

A big thank you to Ben Crannell for mixing the audio for this episode.

You can find us on Instagram @detourscycling and Mel @melwwebb

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Theo Kelsey-Verdecchia on creating the Golden Horseshoe bikepacking route

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 5 Dec 2024 22:49:24 +0000

In this episode, Mel chats with Theo Kelsey-Verdecchia, ultra-endurance cyclist and creator of the Golden Horseshoe bikepacking route in Ontario. Theo shares how he designed this epic 1,600 km route to showcase Ontario’s hidden gems—from rugged singletrack to remote backcountry trails. He talks about racing vs. touring mindsets, balancing challenge with accessibility, and the joys of discovering unexpected resupply stops. Tune in for a conversation about route creation, adventure, and pushing personal limits.

If you want to keep up with Theo's adventures and stayed up to date on his plans for the inaugural Golden Horseshoe event, follow him on Instagram

In an effort to bring you even better episodes in 2025 please fill out our audience survey and share your honest feedback on the show. Thank you in advance for the time and help to grow this show ❤️

As always, if you loved this episode please leave us a five star review, follow the show and share it with a friend. Even better, you can make a one time pledge of your support and any funds go back into creating this show.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Leanne Bentley: Alps Divide 2024 women's winner and bag maker at Carrie Gere

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:49:19 +0000

In this episode, we chat with Leanne Bentley, an ultra-distance cyclist and creative living in the Netherlands. She is also the maker behind the bikepacking bags of Carrie Gere. Originally from the UK, Leanne shares her path from childhood cycling clubs to taking on the world of ultra-racing. She gives us a peek into her early cycling days with fun stories from car parks and grass track racing, and explains how the pandemic led her to discover bikepacking.

Leanne opens up about the lessons from her first races, gear mishaps, and how she balances her cycling with running a creative business and designing custom bikepacking bags.

To keep up with Leanne's adventures follow her on Instagram, as well as her latest bag developments at Carrie Gere.

If you loved this episode please leave us a five star review and don't forget to share this episode with a friend. You can even go one step further and pledge your support on our Buy Me a Coffee.

Thanks as always for listening and we'll see you next week.

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Justinas Leveika on racing the Triple Crown Challenge: Tour Divide, Colorado Trail & Arizona Trail

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:49:37 +0000

Justinas is back on Detours sharing all about his wild 2024 season where he set a new record on the Triple Crown of bikepacking: The Tour Divide, Colorado Trail Race and Arizona Trail Race. Justinas completed all three of these races in a cumulative time of 25 days, 5 hours, and 30 minutes (2d:13h:3m ahead of Jay Petervary’s record from 2015). We caught up while he was recovering in Arizona just a few days after winning the Arizona Trail Race. We shared so many good laughs about his season and everything it took to complete these races. From eating a double cheese burger at the bottom of the grand canyon, to sourcing a ground sheet from construction sites to managing disappointment from route closures, this conversation covers it all.

To keep up to date with Justinas' adventures be sure to give him a follow on Instagram.

If you loved today's episode, please leave us a five star review and share the episode with a friend. It truly does help this show get in the ears of more listeners.

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Emma Missale, bike messenger World Champion, on her first year bikepack racing

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:43:30 +0000

This past year Emma Missale has burst onto the bikepack racing scene, landing herself second on the podium at both the Hellenic and Silk Road Mountain Races. By day, Emma is a bike messenger in Copenhagen and is a three time bike messenger world champion! In this episode she shares all about life as a bike messenger, how she found bikepacking and everything she's learned in her first year racing ultras.

Make sure to give her a follow on Instagram to keep up with her adventures @shotti_e

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Jade Simpson-Field on a life of big adventures & the Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 02:49:45 +0000

Jade Simpson-Field is an adventurer and bikepacker from Leeds who’s made a habit of squeezing in massive adventures around her "normal boring life." Jade’s love for riding her bike is infectious and she’s no stranger to tackling some of the toughest endurance races out there (all while wearing sandals!)—even when imposter syndrome tries to creep in.

We talk about her journey into bikepacking, from her early days riding in Vietnam to racing the Highland Trail 550 (twice!) and her goal of becoming the first person to complete the Lakeland 200 in all four seasons. She also talks about placing third at this year’s Silk Road Mountain Race and what motivates her to push on, even in the hardest moments.

Jade’s story is packed with relatable moments, practical tips, and plenty of inspiration. Thank you Jade and we can't wait to see what you get up to next!

You can keep up with Jade's adventures on Instagram

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Stephen Shelesky on photographing the Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 3 Oct 2024 14:17:48 +0000

Stephen Shelesky is commercial outdoors photographer who has shot for some of the biggest brands in the space and some of the world's best skiiers. He's also an ultra racer. Just one week before he was meant to race the Silk Road Mountain Race for the second time, he was asked to join the media team and photograph the race instead. This would be his first time shooting a bikepacking event.

In this conversation Stephen shares all about diving into these uncharted waters, giving us a sneak peak into life in the media car and ultimately a new perspective on how impactful these events can be on our lives.

Equal parts inspiring and entertaining, Stephen was an absolute delight to talk to.

You can check out more of his work on Instagram or on his website.

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Joe Nation, winner of the 2024 Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:48:26 +0000

Stoked to bring you this conversation with the winner of the 2024 Silk Road Mountain Race, Joe Nation. Hailing from Christchurch, New Zealand, Joe went on to win this year's 1939km edition of the race in 6 days 18 hours and 10 minutes. The race was exceptionally tight until the final 48 hours, where Joe made a tactical move in the Arabel Valley and a strong push over the infamous Shamsi pass to solidify his lead.

In this episode Joe shares the ins and outs of his ride — from his reccy mission before the race, to his rocky first day and how he had to readjust his plans and stay patient in order to make it through.

A massive thanks to Joe for taking the time to chat and hope you all enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

Be sure to give Joe a follow on Instagram as well as subscribe to his YouTube channel.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Hannah Simon, women's winner of the 2024 Silk Road Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Sat, 7 Sep 2024 15:58:38 +0000

Stay up to date on Hannah's adventures by following her on Instagram.

If you loved today's episode please leave us a 5 star review wherever you listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Mateo Paez on racing the 2024 Tour Divide

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 1 Aug 2024 20:45:45 +0000

Stoked to catch up with my good friend Mateo Paez. 2022 was Mateo's first attempt at any ultra endurance bikepacking race and that experience quickly changed his life. Over the past two years he's gone head first into the world of ultracycling, writing his own story and tackling these rides with his unique approach, fondly referring to this niche sport as "Competitive Exploration". He raced this year's Tour Divide and finished the route from Banff to Antelope Wells in 17 days 22 hours 17 minutes.

Today we chat through his experience as a rookie on the Tour Divide and more on his approach to racing. He shares many fantastic tails from the trail, as well as some particularly vulnerable person reflections that happened along the way and just how much these rides have the power to transform your life.

To keep up with Mateo's adventures check him out on Instagram @whatswrongwithpaez_

He also does a fantastic job of sharing post race write ups on his website https://ultrapaez.com/, where he also shared his Tour Divide Kit List

If you loved this episode subscribe to the show wherever you listen and leave us a five star review. It goes a long way in supporting what we do!

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Catching up with Mel & Quinda: HT550, the art of resupplying and more

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 17:18:01 +0000

It's so much fun to have two people in an interview, so I'm stoked to share that you'll be hearing more of Quinda's voice on the show, as she'll be joining as a guest co-host on some upcoming episodes. There will still be plenty of episodes where I'm (Mel) the host, but it's such a joy to have another conversation partner and to collaborate with another woman in the space.

Today we catch up on Highland Trail 550, prepping for Silk Road and all the things in between since it's been a while the two of us chatted. Quinda puts on the hat of interviewer and asked me some questions which was super fun. Tune in for some good banter, and Quinda's hot tips on mastering the art of the resupply.

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Meaghan Hackinen, 2024 Women's Winner of the Tour Divide

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 22:57:33 +0000

Thrilled to bring you this conversation with your 2024 women's winner of the Tour Divide, Meaghan Hackinen. Meg won this year's women's race in a time of 15 days 23 hours, setting the fastest women's time on a grand depart and the second fastest women's time in history. If you were following this year's race you'll know that the conditions were gnarly, with snow storms in the early stages and electrical storms further south. In this episode Meg gives us the full run down on her ride and what it took to reach Antelope Wells as the first woman.

Meaghan is also the author of two books, South Away and Shifting Gears, which just came out as an audiobook. Be sure to check them out and consider purchasing as that's a great way to support Meaghan's adventures.

Follow Meaghan on Instagram

If you loved this episode please subscribe wherever you're listening, leave a rating and consider buying me a coffee to help keep producing the show.

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Justinas' Leveika on winning the 2024 Tour Divide and breaking the record

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 2 Jul 2024 03:20:57 +0000

At 9:25AM on June 27th, Justinas' Leveika arrived at the USA/Mexico border in Antelope Wells after 13 days 2 hours and 16 minutes, winning this years edition of the Tour Divide and setting a new record in the process. In this episode we dive into his historic record breaking ride, and how he managed to "fix his mistakes from last year" and just what this ride means to him. He's fondly known as the nicest guy in bikepacking, and I think you'll understand why after listening to this episode. We had so many great laughs and there's no shortage of inspiration served up in this conversation.

Follow Justinas' on Instagram @justin.and.bikes to keep up with his racing and see what he gets up to next.

If you loved today's episode, please leave us a five star review and consider buying me a coffee to help keep the show going.

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Austin Killips on her Arizona Trail 800 FKT

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:29:55 +0000

At the end of May 2024, Austin Killips set a blisteringly rapid overall fastest known time on the Arizona Trail. She bested the previous record held by Alex Schulz of 9 days 5 hours and 43 minutes, reaching the Arizona/Utah border in a time of 8 days 23 hours 27 minutes. And while completing the route in the first place is an incredible feat, this was Austin's first ever bikepacking race. Today on the show she shares more about her foray into the world of ultra endurance bikepack racing from navigating all of the gear, to planning her effort and where she hopes to go in the sport.

If you want to support her endeavours, please consider subscribing to her Patreon and you can keep up with her adventures on Instagram.

----

The Tour Divide is currently in full swing and Detours alum Meaghan Hackinen is currently leading the women's race and hovering at record pace. Be sure to check out her episode on Detours wherever you get your podcasts.

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Weronika Szalas: the fastest woman at the Accursed Race and life by bike

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 15:25:08 +0000

Today on the show we have Weronika Szalas. For the last 5 years she's been living life by bike, touring solo as a woman around Europe. While Weronika is no stranger to riding her bike long distances, she rarely races, and was recently the fastest woman to complete the inaugural edition of the Accursed Race. The Accursed Race is a 1600km off-road bikepacking race in the Balkans, created by the team behind the infamous Transcontinental Race.

Weronika shares about her experience racing through the Balkans, how much of what she's learned from touring translates well into racing and more about her life on the bike. This was such a chill lovely chat and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

She's well worth a follow on instagram as she posts stunning photos of her travels and has definitely inspired me to travel solo more by bike. You can follow her at https://www.instagram.com/weronika.szalas/

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Cynthia Carson on Unbound XL and preparing for the Trans Continental Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 7 Jun 2024 16:11:01 +0000

It's a bittersweet day over here at Detours as we're airing our last episode hosted by both Mel and Cynthia. As you'll hear in today's episode, Cynthia is stepping away from the podcast to focus on her budding career as a full time professional ultra racer. She shares more about what's next, bouncing back from setbacks this spring and preparing for the big target of the year, the Transcontinental Race.

We couldn't be more grateful to Cynthia for everything she's contributed to the show and can't wait to see her shine in this next chapter! The show will continue to go on hosted by Mel, with the same mission of getting more folks who identify as women on bikes.

Thank you for continuing to support the show, it truly means the world.

Keep up with Cynthia's adventures on Youtube and Instagram

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The Women of the Highland Trail 550 2024

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Sat, 25 May 2024 04:01:06 +0000

Kicking off May 25, 31 women will race the 11th edition of the Highland Trail 550, a self-supported bikepacking race through the Scottish highlands.

We were fortunate enough to hear from over half of the women who will be setting off. Each has their own unique story and shares about their journey to the start line and what they're looking forward to getting out of the experience.

As always we hope this episode inspires more women to take on their own adventures.

Watch the pink dots as they travel around the highlands on Trackleaders.

Support the show by leaving us a 5 star review or buying us a coffee

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Hannah Simon on the Triple Crown, Atlas Mountain Race and bikes as a tool for good

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Fri, 17 May 2024 23:11:08 +0000

Hannah Simon is one of those people that make you feel like anything is possible. She has a can do attitude and is a downright joy to be around. Since toeing the line of her first ultra in 2021, and snagging a joint first place to boot, she’s tackled some of the most iconic events on the bikepacking calendar. In February 2024 she rounded out the podium at the Atlas Mountain Race as the third woman to cross the finish line. Not six months prior she completed the bikepacking Triple Crown — The Tour Divide, Colorado Trail Race and Arizona Trail Race. And while each of these accomplishments is impressive in it’s own right, Hannah is known for using the bicycle as a tool for good, riding to raise funds for causes that truly make the world a better place.

Hannah shares the highs and lows of her past season, her unexpected beginnings into bikes, life working at Chumba and so much more.

To keep up with Hannah’s adventures, give her a follow on Instagram @hannahmsimon_

If you loved this episode please leave us a five star review wherever you listen and consider supporting the show through our Buy Me a Coffee.

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Quinda Verheul: artist, bikepacker, women's winner of the inaugural Hellenic Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 7 May 2024 02:39:37 +0000

Quinda is an artist, photographer and ultra-distance cyclist from the Netherlands. She's taken on some of the hardest bikepacking races in the world, including the Atlas Mountain Race, Silk Road Mountain Race and taking the women's win at the inaugural Hellenic Mountain Race in 2023. While on first meeting Quinda has a gentle demeanour, below the surface she is tenacious and one of the hardier ultra cyclists out there. This conversation is wide reaching, from her entry into ultra cycling, the relationship between her art practice and riding, to traumatic brain injuries and her dreams for the future. It flew by, and while we could have talked forever, we think it's a wonderful introduction to the magnificent woman that is Quinda Verheul.

To keep up with her adventures follow her on Instagram @avoidtheavoid

If you loved this episode please leave us a five star review wherever you listen.

If you have the means please consider supporting the show so we can keep bringing you episodes like this one.

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Sarah Sturm on her alternative approach & life as a gravel pro

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:07:32 +0000

This week we step just outside the world of ultra, and into the world of long distance gravel racing. For folks who follow the gravel scene, you may already be familiar with Sarah Sturm. Sarah Sturm is one of the top gravel racers in the world, with podium finishes at events like Unbound 200 and Traka 360. While these events aren't ultras in their own right, they can often be gateway events for many folks, and there is so much we can learn from Sarah. Known for her bubbly personality, she shared insights into her transition away from cyclocross and mountain bike racing, to longer events, how she has built a career out of racing her bike and created a program to help pave the way for other women to become professionals in the sport.

This year Sarah will be racing both the Gravel Earth and Life Time Grand Prix series. You can follow along with her season over on Instagram.

If you loved this episode please leave us a five star review and consider making a pledge to help us keep producing episodes.

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Jenny Tough: making space for women in cycling, pressing pause & returning to racing

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 8 Apr 2024 23:55:09 +0000

Jenny Tough is a woman who hardly needs an introduction. A quick Google search will pull up a laundry list of accomplishments in the outdoors — from winning the Silk Road Mountain Race (twice!), to running across a mountain range on six continents, to publishing two books. While each of these accomplishments is exceptional in its own right, Jenny remains humble, honest and dedicated to making space for other women in the outdoors.

Our conversation is wide reaching; from her first bike trip to the Yukon where she carried handwritten notes to help her fix mechanicals, to becoming one of the most prolific women in bikepack racing, to putting her career on pause for two years to heal her eating disorder. While we do spend some time on serious topics, we had so much fun in this conversation and are grateful for Jenny's humour and sharing so candidly.

Warning: We discuss disordered eating and exercise dependency from approximately 1:00:00 to 1:18:00, so please skip this section if you need.

You can stay up to date on Jenny’s adventure on Instagram and read more of her writing on her Substack.

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Meg Knobel on the Stagecoach 400

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:31:15 +0000

Show Notes

Meg Knobel is the organizer (or as you’ll come to learn, “disorganizer”) of the wildly popular bikepacking event in Southern California, Stagecoach 400. From her first experiences tackling the route, to taking the reins from Brendan Collier in 2019, Meg was an absolute joy to chat with. She talks about hosting the first Grand Depart and how her confidence grew over time, and gives us a behind the scenes look at just how much effort goes into putting on these Grand Departs. This year’s edition of Stagecoach 400 kicks off March 29th at 8AM PDT in Idyllwild California.

Follow Stagecoach400 on Instagram

Dotwatch this year’s Stagecoach

The Stagecoach 400 route

00:00 Quick catchup w/ Mel & Cynthia

09:10 Interview with Meg

13:20 Meg's Background and Stagecoach 400

33:55 Hosting the First Grand Depart vs. Now

42:39 Advice for Folks Touring the Route

57:16 Planning and Organizing the Event

01:01:58 The “Perfect” Bike for Stagecoach 400

01:05:04 Why Keep the Event Unsanctioned

01:19:37 Fun Banter you don’t want to miss out on

01:29:26 Giving Stagecoach Tattoos

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Nathalie Baillon on AMR, SRMR and all things adventure

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:28:45 +0000

While she's a relative new comer to the world of off-road ultra racing, Nathalie Baillon hardly needs any introduction. She has a laundry list of accolades, including a joint first at Silk Road Mountain Race in August 2023, the fastest woman to ride across Europe, and more. It was such a treat to get to chat with her and learn more about how she found her footing in the sport and where she's hoping to go from here.

To keep up with Nathalie's adventures, follow her on Instagram.

Thanks for all your love and support as always. If you loved today's episode please leave us a five star review wherever you tune in and consider pledging $5 to support the show.

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Atlas Mountain Race 2024 Recap

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 6 Mar 2024 14:50:07 +0000

We're baaack! Today on the show we share more about our time in Morocco for the Atlas Mountain Race, as well as answer your questions about the race. Let us know what you think of this episode and if there's anything we missed - it's always a challenge post event to synthesize our thoughts and cover it all.

As always thanks for being here! If you loved today's episode please consider leaving us a five star review, or buying us a coffee. Every little bit helps us continue to produce the show.

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The Women of the 2024 Atlas Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 7 Feb 2024 15:29:20 +0000

A small but mighty field of women will be starting the fourth edition of the Atlas Mountain Race. We were fortunate enough to hear from nearly all of them ahead of the start. These incredible individuals share what they’re most excited about and what challenges they are likely to face. Each of them has a unique story, and we hope by shining a spotlight on the women’s field it will encourage more to line up next year or to take on their own challenge.

You can follow our dots on MapProgress - www.amr24.maprogress.com

We’ve put together a list of the women featured in this episode so you can track them on the map by cap number. They are organized here in the same order as they appear in the episode.

Cat Magill - 183

Christiana Tamburini - 173

Cynthia Carson - 172

Hannah Larbalestier - 140

Hannah Simon - 139

Harriet Wingfield - 314A

Marika Latsone - 101

Marion Dziwnik - 99

'Masca Lu Wahlig - 130

Megan Casebow - 309A

Melina Boening - 84

Mel Webb - 85

Molly Weaver - 79

Nathalie Baillon - 78

Quinda Verheul - 56

Sarah Heller - 306A

Shona Oldfield - 305A

Veera Lahde - 6

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Ep. 13 - Atlas Mountain Race Preview with special guest host, Allan Shaw

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Sun, 4 Feb 2024 05:49:52 +0000

It's officially the week of Atlas Mountain Race! We're joined by special guest host, Allan Shaw, who interviews us on our preparations for the race, expectations, and much more. Expect a lot of giggles, hot tips on navigating the race from Allan (who raced in 2023), and a not-so secret announcement!

The not so secret announcement? We'll be producing a daily podcast in partnership with Atlas Mountain race, that will be hosted on their feed. Search for "The Silk Road Mountain Race and Atlas Mountain Race Podcast" wherever you listen, or click the links below for Spotify and Apple.

Listen to the AMR podcast on Spotify

Listen to the AMR podcast on Apple Podcasts

Racing kicks off at 6PM local time and there's plenty of places to catch the action.

Dotwatch here
Follow Mel on Instagram for live updates
Follow Cynthia on Instagram

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Ep. 12 - Luisa Werner, the 2023 women's winner of Atlas Mountain Race

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:56:37 +0000

We're officially into racing season over here at Detours. Cynthia and Mel will be toeing the line of the Atlas Mountain Race kicking off on February 9 and what better way to get ready than to host last year's women's winner, Luisa Werner. She shares about her winning ride — from the crash that resulted in a major mechanical, to injury, and doing things your own way, this episode will surely get you in the dotwatching or racing mood.

Follow Luisa on Instagram to keep follow her 2024 cycling plans @luisasophiewer

There's a few ways you can follow Mel and Cynthia on their journey through the Atlas Mountains

Follow along on Instagram @melwwebb and @watt_wagon
Watch our dots https://amr24.maprogress.com/

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Ep. 11 - Molly Weaver, leaving the professional peloton and entering the world of ultra

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:59:57 +0000

We're officially back for 2024! January and February will mainly be occupied with Atlas Mountain Race content so buckle up.

In this episode we are joined by Molly Weaver, former professional road cyclist turned ultra rider. Not only is Molly a talented rider, she is a community builder and determined to get more women into the ultra cycling and bikepacking scene. She shares loads about her transition away from the world tour peloton, the races she's tackled so far and much more.

If you're interested in Molly's ultra camps you can check them out here and be sure to give her a follow on Instagram to stay up to date with her latest adventures.

If you loved this episode please leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening and consider buying us a coffee!

Thanks as always for listening!

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Ep. 10 - Mel and Cynthia take the hot seat

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 22:11:19 +0000

Our last episode for 2023 and thought it was about time the two of us took to the hot seat and answered some of your questions. We share how we found ultra, navigating sponsorship deals, dream races, goals for ourselves and the podcast and more.

We're so grateful for everyone who has tuned in and helped us get the show off the ground. It's been a blast and we can't wait to see where 2024 takes us.

If you love the show, please take a moment to share this episode with a friend and leave us a review. It helps more than you know. You can support us even further and buy us a coffee to help offset our overhead.

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Ep. 9 - Robin Todd, the bikepacking poet

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Thu, 7 Dec 2023 16:47:53 +0000

A retired English and Creative Writing teacher, Robin Todd started bikepacking in the 80s and has since ridden across Canada and the United States. At 58 years old she has a wealth of experience. She shares stories of her origins on the bike, and how her relationship with it has changed over the years, and her hopes for a more inclusive cycling community.

To read more about Robin's adventures visit her website, where she shares beautiful recounts at the end of each day when she's on the road.

If you loved this episode, be sure to leave us a 5 star review wherever you listen and consider becoming a supporter.

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Ep. 8 - Allan Shaw: Gay's Okay Cycling, Silk Road Mountain Race finisher... on a cargo bike!

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:03:29 +0000

Be prepared to be hit with a heavy dose of inspiration — Allan Shaw is a breath of fresh air. In a world where we are constantly being marketed the latest and greatest tech to power our adventures, Allan has challenged what many think are possible on a bike, most recently completing the infamous Silk Road Mountain Race on a cargo bike. From early days as a bike messenger, to touring across the United States (three times!!!), to his travels around the globe and navigating different cultures as an openly gay person, there is something for everyone in this episode.

Check out Allan's company, Gay's Okay and be sure to follow him on Instagram to keep up with his adventures.

If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a five star review — it helps more than you know.

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Ep. 7 - Nils Laengner, tales from behind the lens of an ultra-photographer

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Tue, 7 Nov 2023 17:35:13 +0000

If you've dotwatched any ultra-races in recent years or kept up with social media, you've likely seen Nils' photos. But the photos of riders and their triumphs only tell one part of the story. In this episode, we sit down with photographer Nils Laengner. We dive behind the scenes of what goes into getting those stunning shots and the nuances of photographing these unsupported bikepacking events. From jumping out of a moving car in Kyrgyzstan to navigating the emotional complexities of races of this magnitude, this episode is full of wild stories.

Make sure to follow Nils on Instagram to keep up with his work.

As always, don't forget to rate, review and share — it helps us more than you know!

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Ep. 6 - Meaghan Hackinen

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 22:14:59 +0000

Fresh off her win at the Silver State 508, a Race Across America Qualifier, we sat down with Canadian ultra-endurance cyclist and author, Meaghan Hackinen. This episode is a little longer than normal, and for good reason. We went deep with Meaghan on her humble beginnings in the sport, lessons from the road and tips for folks new to the off-road scene.

To support Meaghan consider purchasing one her books Shifting Gears and South Away — we can't wait to read them!

Make sure to follow Meaghan on Instagram to keep up with her latest adventures.

Trigger warning: Meaghan did briefly share a story that touches on suicide from 21:00 to 25:00.

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Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Ep. 5 - Katya Rakhmatulina, Colorado Trail women's FKT holder

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 9 Oct 2023 04:07:46 +0000

Katya Rakhmatulina has been on fire this season, finishing second at The Tour Divide and winning the Colorado Trail, setting a new women’s FKT in the process. She’s also wicked smart — an engineer by day, modelling natural disasters.

We had so many good laughs chatting with Katya, from her humble bike touring routes to rummaging through garbage cans on this years Tour Divide.

Keep up to date with Katya's happening by following her on Instagram @kat__yea

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Ep. 4 - Abe Kaufman, self-care & FKTs

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 20:02:19 +0000

Everybody loves Abe! Abe Kaufman is potentially the nicest person we'll ever have on the podcast and has numerous FKTs to boot. In this episode we chat with Abe about his most recent FKT, the Trans Northern Georgia Adventure, in addition to his self-care routine on the bike and recent races.

If you're in the market for a pair of down booties, Abe graciously shared the link to the pair that he raved about in today's episode.

If you'd like to keep up with Abe's adventures, check him out on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review the show as it helps us reach more listeners.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Ep. 3 - Whop Wagon has it her way at Badlands 2023

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:00:10 +0000

In this episode Cynthia shares the behind the scenes of her iconic win.

Badlands has made a name for itself as Europe's wildest gravel challenge — an unsupported ultracycling gravel: 800km +16.000m across the only deserts in Europe, the wild coast of Cabo de Gata and the highest Col in the continent, Pico Veleta at 3.396m. After finishing second behind Lael Wilcox in 2022, our very own co-host Cynthia was determined to improve on her performance from last year. And that she did, securing the win in under 48 hours and finishing 8th overall.

Interested in racing Badlands next year? Check out Cynthia's "What Not To Do at Badlands" video on Youtube for valuable insights on how to prepare.

As always, thanks for listening and be sure to follow us to stay in the loop on all future episodes:

Detours on Instagram
Cynthia on Instagram
Mel on Instagram

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Ep. 2 - Dr. Marion Dziwnik, women's winner of Badlands 2021

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:04:47 +0000

With less than a week to go to the 2023 edition of Badlands, we're joined by 2021 female winner, Marion Dziwnik (@supermajon on Instagram). A full-time scientist and accomplished ultra racer, Marion shares more about her cycling journey and her 2021 Badlands win, as well as how she balances a demanding career and this time-intensive niche of cycling.

If you're racing this year's edition, be sure to check out Cynthia's What Not To Do At Badlands video on Youtube. And if you're not racing, be sure to join in on the action by dotwatching here.

If you loved this episode, please don't forget to give us a follow, rate and review. Thanks for listening and see you next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Ep. 1 - Adventure, camaraderie and... pit toilets?

thedetourspodcast@gmail.com (Mel Webb) — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:26:40 +0000

Yahoo! Episode 1 of Detours is here. We finally sit down to share what this show will be about, why we love ultra cycling/bikepacking, and some tales from the trail. You'll also get a teaser as to who our guest will be for Episode 2 but you'll have to listen to get that piece of info ;)

Throughout the episode, we mentioned a number of links that we think you'll love. First off some shameless self-promo:

Follow Mel & Cynthia on Instagram
Subscribe to Cynthia's YouTube channel - she captures seriously stunning videos of her racing and shares a wealth of knowledge on ultra cycling
Watch Cynthia's Memory Bike YouTube Videos, an ultra-cycling race in Italy!
Cynthia's hardtail set up for Memory Bike
Memory Bike part 1
Memory Bike part 2

Need some entertainment while riding your bike? Listen to Normal Gossip, we promise you'll be giggling as much as we are on the bike.

If you have an idea for a guest or topic you'd love covered on the podcast we'd love to hear from you. You can DM either of us on Instagram or email us at thedetourspodcast@gmail.com

Thanks so much for listening and don't forget to review and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscycling

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

Use code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from Albion

If you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast