Cyclists celebrated their achievements at the El Tour De Tucson award ceremony held in Tucson, Arizona. The event showcased not only the physical endurance of the participants but also the emotional highs that come with crossing the finish line. Winners received their trophies in front of family and friends, marking a significant milestone in their cycling journeys.
Winners Share Their Experiences
Among the notable winners was the dynamic duo of Riley Wraith and Chase Bullis, both of whom expressed their passion for cycling. Wraith remarked, “I would say that biking is definitely one of the best sports, but I’m biased.” He highlighted the joy of being outdoors and the opportunity to connect with new people through the sport. Bullis echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the challenges he faced during the race. “I was happy finishing as well because I was a little tired because it was windy,” he said, reflecting on the conditions they endured.
Wraith’s performance was particularly impressive; he placed third in the 62-mile juniors category despite only starting training a week prior to the event. “It was definitely exciting,” he stated, recalling the adrenaline rush from sprinting the last seven miles alongside faster competitors.
Adaptive Cycling Champion
In the adaptive category for the 102-mile event, cyclist Tracy LaMarche emerged victorious. Her journey was filled with emotional peaks and valleys, as she recounted, “There are so many emotions. It goes from being down in the doldrums and thinking, ‘I cannot do this, what did I sign up for,’ to riding along at 28-29 miles an hour and thinking, ‘Oh my God, I can do this.'”
LaMarche attributed her success to her rigorous training and the support of her team. “This is my first year riding and racing,” she explained. “So all this year has just been getting familiar with being on a bike and how to pedal, how to pedal with one leg because I do not wear my right leg to cycle.” The emotional rollercoaster she experienced culminated in a feeling of empowerment upon completing the race.
Looking ahead, LaMarche has set her sights on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. “This was a huge mental boost for me to think that I might actually have the skill level to get there,” she shared, demonstrating her determination and ambition.
The El Tour De Tucson not only highlights the spirit of competition but also serves as a platform for personal growth and achievement among cyclists of all abilities. The camaraderie and shared experiences of participants contribute to the event’s lasting impact on the cycling community.
