Y’all probably know by now that I love Arkansas.
Last Tuesday evening I was sitting on my couch getting caught up on all the instagram-goings-ons when I came across a post i had forgotten about. Natural State Rock & Republic was going to be hosting “Tales of the High Country” the very next evening, and I knew I had to be there. The next morning I woke up early, threw some stuff in the van and pointed it in a northeastern direction for a 9 hour drive. When I got there I found out that they wanted me to co-moderate the evenings events. I had a solid 30 minutes to prepare questions for a live audience, so of course I agreed. Just two weeks ago I leant Lilly my bullhorn at Truffle Shuffle and now she leant me her microphone. I’d like to thank her personally for not only moderating one helluva event, but for allowing me to share in the experience.
The evening featured a panel discussion with 8 racers from this years Arkansas High Country Race, each with a unique experience and story to share.
Scotti Lechuga – High Country overall winner and new women’s FKT
Andrew Onerma – New ARHC race director and Ozark Gravel enthusiast
Derek Henderson – First bikepacking race was the ARHC short circuit
Dylan Morton – The most experienced bikepacker in the room?
Lindsay Shepard – Or is it Linsday that has the most experience?
Dr. Seth Wood – Second time race the ARHC on a Singlespeed
Ernie Lechuga – Withdrew from the race with life threatening medical issues
Zach McCool – First to complete the entire ARHC AND the Singletrack option
Needless to say with this panel there was no shortage of fun and inspirational stories, it was totally worth the 9 hour drive. I’d do it again tomorrow. It was that good.
A sincere note of gratitude to Natural State Rock & Republic for accommodating me with open arms on short notice. And to Lilly, from Ozark Gravel Cyclist, for moderating an amazing event and allowing me to share in the experience. My plan was to drive up, record the event, sleep in my van, and drive home the next morning, but instead they welcomed me, included me, and housed me for the evening. Your generosity on short notice was very appreciated!
All photos provided by Kai Caddy, you can view a full gallery of images here.
Episode Sponsors
I always say that these episodes aren’t possible without support and this trip was the perfect example. Being able to take 24 hours out of my “normal” life to drive to Arkansas and capture this event is only possible with support. As I creep closer to making this my full time job I hope to make more impromptu trips just like this!
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