Six Degrees is so honored to be a second-time sponsor for this year’s Babes in Bikeland Race. Now in its ninth year, this race for women, trans, and femme riders empowers and encourages race novices. It’s an “alleycat” style race, which means riders are given a map of all of the locations they have to visit in order to win the race, have about a half hour to map their route, and then set off, helmets strapped tight, legs pumping, working to collect a stamp at each stop before coasting into the after-party for cold beer, a hot dance party, and impressive prizes.

Riding in Babes in Bikeland 5 was the first time, I think, I realized I could be an athlete. It was in the midst of what I was calling my September of adventure. Even though I’d tackled lots of other firsts that month, the race felt momentous.

I needed to bike fast and safely, map out an efficient route, think or work my way through “physical challenges” and riddles at each of the stops, and work with other women to complete the course. And when it was done, the top prize went to a woman in her 40s who was undergoing chemo. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as she raised her fist on the podium!

As I danced to some Ginuwine (I’m not above it!), surrounded by women and their partners and friends, I felt triumphant.

I didn’t win (far from it). But I learned something about who I was, the potential I held, that fear and excitement are easily confused, and that I shouldn’t let the former hold me back from the latter. And I had a great time.

If you want to learn more about this race, sign up, or volunteer, check out babesinbikeland.com. Until then, see ya on the trails and in the studio!