I Just Want To Ride - Lael Wilcox and the 2019 Tour Divide

[@TwoWheelWarrior]

150,000 feet = 45,720 meters. 2,750 miles = 4,425 kilometers. You're welcome vast majority of the world...

[@pearlizumi]

Unsung hero of the day. Well played.

[@wallacedavidg]

I switched to metric because the distance numbers are bigger.

[@balancecatamarandefects]

Thanks but we know how to do math....

[@russyJ20]

@@balancecatamarandefects yep, but better when you don't have to

[@reinout1139]

@@wallacedavidg LOL. When we cross into Canada we're always saying, "there are SOOO many KMS", "But they go by so much quicker!"

[@christopherseistrup8493]

Thank you for sponsoring the production of this video, I will cherish the finish line footage for the rest of my life. I just wish the video would have mentioned that I wasn't just the winner, but I also raised $35,000 for people all over the world with bleeding disorders, and I became the first person with Hemophilia to complete the route.

[@pearlizumi]

Well done, Chris! Thanks for letting us know, we didn't know about your fundraising.

[@rugilekaladyte9741]

Hey Chris, thank you for letting us share part of your story in the film and joining us for the screening in Tucson. I really wish you would have mentioned this idea after you had watched it so we could include it. Congrats on your fundraising! That's huge.

[@kiwidavecz]

@@rugilekaladyte9741 while you're listening ... I emailed you and Lael directly after your earlier article to clarify that the Tour Divide Facebook group discussion was a minor topic amongst hundreds of posts, with approx. 60 people (from 8.5k members) commenting on the film crew with a rough split of 25% "it's within the rules" / 25% "on the fence" / 50% "it's breaching the rules", and that the discussion was respectful and thought-out, and that 3 winners of the Tour Divide felt it was pushing the rules too much. Some of this mini movie is presented somewhat misleadingly - there was not Facebook group attacking the"media project" ... it was a valid discussion about the support/visitation rule and in particular whether a crew "following" one rider is "support" and in addition that one of the crew is Lael's partner. No-one was "yelling" at Lael, no-one was saying that her previous TD rides didn't count (it wasn't mentioned), no-one mentioned her Trans-am ride. Most of those commenting had raced the Tour Divide and included 2019 racers. We are a small community of people with a common interest in bikepacking and the TD - Lael is as close to a celebrity that you can get in an underground sport plus a pro bikepacker with lots of respect and fans amongst TD fans and racers - it seems jarring that the film goes out of her way to mislead about people in the community having an open discussion about the spirit and rules of bikepack racing the TD. You had a wonderful chance to document Alexandera Houchin's amazing ride once Lael scratched - it would have really captured so much of the spirit of bikepack racing. The front end story of Sofi / Josh / Chris / Nate / Steve / Peter / Tony and Josh could've been so beautifully told. Maybe you plan to do this with your footage later, would be awesome. (Note: As background to the FB "film conversation" ..... there is a specific rule for the Tour Divide which prohibits visitation by any friends/family : Visitation: Out-of-town visitation to the GDMBR mid-race from challengers' family or friends-even if only a 'loosely-planned', remote possibility for rider rendezvous-is prohibited.)

[@gregkogut6749]

I take it by your suggestion that the film crew document Alexandera, that you were on the "within the rules" side, which is great. But "quit' isn't the word I'd have picked for what Lael did.

[@DirtyBunnyAdventureCycling]

@@kiwidavecz It's not often you see a sore winner, but here we are. The controversy was large enough that people like myself, who aren't in your community, heard about it through mainstream cycling media. And it was large enough that a sponsorship was lost and Salsa had to make a press release essentially apologizing for the behavior of one of their previously sponsored athletes. To ignore it in this film, especially when it's surrounding the existence of the film, would be even more dishonest than you claim the film was. I mean, congrats on your win, but frankly the entire controversy over this film, the FB reactions, and your reactions here lead me to not want to associate with your "community" at all. Even if it's, as you put it, a "minor" part, it's loud enough and apparently popular enough to drive people away. So congrats on that too, I guess.

[@fadedroseadventures304]

The quote "The person that says it cannot be done. Should not interrupt the person who is doing it". She is such an inspiration. SM is this magical place that can bless you & poison you all at the same time. Keep doing you Lael. We'll keep cheering. Thank you for this lovely story.

[@darkroomzen]

Lael is such a great ambassador for this sport and inspiration for every rider out there.

[@tonyhussey3610]

Get Lost Photo Club Without a doubt, total inspiration. She seems so chilled too, no ego or attitude.

[@happydays8171]

You can feel her energy, be consumed by her mild manners yet intense concentration, and admire her intense focus on her end result. That's my opinion if her, she'd be a great spokesperson for ANY brand.

[@eivissastef]

if she would stop the gasoline into the already burning fire.

[@jbbhrf5678]

@@eivissastef I just learned of this controversy, but I believe this is her way of being passive-aggressive in this situation -- just like you. I don't blame her one bit.

[@barrylyndon80]

I agree and she is riding away from her male competitors as she would be on a sunday morning ride. I also like her voice, so soft and calming!

[@labeaustudios]

I love how hard these racers go, but they are so light hearted about it. That muddy pass with rain - they were all laughing at their luck. So awesome!

[@Hungrycyclist81]

God bless this woman she helped me kick a fifteen year addiction to the bottle and gave me hope

[@pearlizumi]

Whoa, thanks for sharing. Keep pedaling out there!

[@GerritD]

This is extremely embarrassing for the race director and leadership of the Tour Divide. To approve Lael's media project months in advance and then get pushed around by sexist members of a Facebook group is really weak and just against the spirit of the cycling community. And people ask why more women don't participate... Lael is ultra endurance cycling's best ambassador right now, working to bring the sport to more people and pushing the limits of what is possible. To throw her under the bus like this was wrong. Can't wait to see her crush everyone in 2020.

[@MoBugs1]

Gerrit, you are so right. As a woman cyclist, we don't have many female cyclist to inspire us and to see this happen to Lael is unconscionable. The lack of attempting to defuse the Facebook shit by the race director. The passive/aggressive behavior of the group is not shocking. Female cyclist have been subjected to this type culture for decades. It truely raises its' ugly head when a woman/women move in what used to be a male dominated area. It's will soon be 2020, wake up and be present.

[@gnomeirl]

They want to delegitimize Lael and her accomplishments because they don't believe that a woman can do what she does. Lael is the living manifestation of their inadequacies. She is unassuming and not boastful, yet monstrous in her accomplishments and abilities, and their reptilian brains cannot wrap their minds around that contradiction. I sympathize with the difficulty of overcoming bias borne of and inherited from millions of years of evolutionary programming. So what do they do? They put up as many barriers as they can for Lael. Again, why? They do not want her to succeed, and if she fails, they will use that to delegitimize her past accomplishments. Why? Because Lael confounds their senses; she offends their deep-seated evolutionary and culturally abetted values that say men must dominate women, that women cannot be better than or equal to men. But there is just one failure here: Lael's critics have failed to truly examine themselves.

[@Abe18874]

And these sexist members believe they are real men. Wow. Disgusting. This is so much more about society and hypocrisy than just cycling communities.

[@props651]

Shoot! She inspires me! She's the reason why Im planning to race the TABR in a couple years. Im a new cyclist. She freakin slays

[@thomoneal7881]

@@props651 What Facebook group is it? It would be nice to know.

[@robertbotta6536]

Haters gonna hate. They are jerks. How can anyone question your ability, records, talent, or intentions? You are as pure an elite athlete as there is and we ALL know it. I imagine it’s not easy but try to ignore the idiots. Probably just jelly. The 99.9% are 100% behind you. Keep going! Oh and you are wonderful and a total inspiration to us. Thanks.

[@showlowitsqueentlee2737]

This. Can you be any more pure as an athlete? There's so little reward for so much effort. She's driven just by the desire to pedal and adventure. How can anyone hate on Lael?

[@balancecatamarandefects]

I missed out on the original controversy and was a surprised at how much this movie just stokes the hate. So much for forgive and forget....

[@eivissastef]

haters gonna hate, and others take more wood to the already uncontrolled fire.

[@coolbeans7274]

Haters can Hate all they want. It's so easy to criticize from a warm comfortable chair. Don't waste your time listening to social media. You are so impressive. / if friends ride together, is that support? BTW best divide video yet!

[@cypriano8763]

they hate us cos they aint us, hahaha

[@tarajones-legros3661]

Moral of the story: Get off of Facebook and go ride your bike.

[@josesbox9555]

Well...greetings from April 2020. Once this is over I’ll be back out there.

[@thelast344]

Corona virus isn't as dangerous as the idiots in cars texting and checking Facebook.

[@HiopX]

never been on facebook :D

[@evelasq1]

AMEN!

[@headoverbars8750]

Facebook ruined our local trail community. I don't go to the site anymore

[@leroyyoder3494]

The experience Ms. Wilcox had with the FB group is the reason I never joined FB and abandoned Twitter years ago. Haters hate because they can’t do. The fact that they praised a male competitor proves that they are men who are insecure in the fact that a woman is better at something than they are. Keep riding and continue on the high road, the view is better from up there!

[@brucewhite2296]

Lael you are truly inspiring. It saddens me deeply to see the way you were treated. You are truly gifted and I know you will come back and get the record. My wife and I rode GDMBR in 2018 going south to north, and not trying to race but to ride and have time to explore. our goal was to spend 6 to 8 hours each day riding. It was probably the funnest thing we have ever done in the 31 years we have been together. We loved seeing your film, and knew every place you showed. it brought back some wonderful memories, we loved the excitement of getting up each day and seeing something new and beautiful. We plan to retire in 2 more years and then travel the world bikepacking. We will be routing for you in all of your future adventures. Keep doing what you love, with those you love, best wishes and safe travels.

[@duzer]

Love it!!! Way to go Lael and everyone else. Inspires me to ride that route someday.

[@pearlizumi]

Do it Duzer!!!

[@JustJake77]

Now that would be awesome of you Duzer! You are a huge inspiration and positive influence on so many adventure seekers. I hope you make this trip a reality one day.

[@duzer]

Jake MC77 thanks Jake! It’ll for sure happen someday...not sure when cause my list is long;) happy trails!

[@billysbikesbrews7183]

Ryan Van Duzer Duzer TV.. at its best.. Drone Video..

[@peterk7427]

just make sure you meet someone else's completely man-made standards, there buck-o! (kidding)

[@josemartinez5432]

Such a shame that this story had to include the negativity encountered. Seems a double standard for the male cyclist, who received no criticism. The organizer should be ashamed of himself. Lael jumped thru hoops to meet the standard. Lael is one of the most kind unassuming individuals in cycling and probably one of the biggest advocates for the sport. Has done nothing but push positive vibes for cycling and push the sport further along. Kudos to her for taking the high road. Love her!!!!!

[@prime8nate]

The male cyclist, Jay Petervary, was dropped by Salsa after they investigated this incident.

[@WildOutdoorLiving]

@@prime8nate Jay is not the male cyclist being referred to in this film just fyi.

[@aquilafhionnlaigh4490]

@@WildOutdoorLiving Yeah it is. Should have been DQed.

[@kilobitti]

@@WildOutdoorLiving “Dear Adventure Community, Some of you may be aware of the public debate of rules surrounding this year’s Tour Divide. While we appreciate a healthy discussion, we were disappointed by the behavior of Salsa Cycles sponsored athlete Jay Petervary. As a result, we have made the difficult decision to end our sponsorship agreement with Jay. We would like to make clear that our decision was not based on the Tour Divide rules, nor the interpretation of those rules. During the conflict that surrounded this year’s Tour Divide, Jay’s conduct simply did not align with our brand values of empathy, community, and positivity. Over the years, Jay has been an important partner for Salsa Cycles in supporting and growing Adventure By Bike. We wish him the best in his next adventure. Sincerely, Salsa Cycles”

[@jonpoon3896]

This is the toughest off road ultra race. Upsets me that a Facebook group became the most challenging terrain for this year’s race

[@DAllan-lz3lg]

Jonathan Poon Absolutely, whatever the field of endeavour there are always bitter idiots in their mum’s basement spouting bile

[@mc28x]

Exactly why social media sucks !!

[@pabtorre]

There's an infinite supply of idiots in FB. It is best to ignore them.

[@durianriders]

It is hard BUT race to the rock is way harder. Look how isolated you are in the R2R race.

[@eivissastef]

and Pearl Izumi like this comment. LOL

[@CliffordLouie-ew8ow]

Lael, I’m late to your video, but i admire your ability to stay you, and have the courage to ride your ride. This documentary means so much more because you stood up to the haters.

[@alexharris5985]

What authentic CHARACTER👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@eizadhobuti3683]

Don't cast Pearl's before swine! You are world-class human in all aspects! Don't waste a minute, They don't understand being "the best!" Thank you so much for the inspiration!

[@timk33]

Facebook, allowing people to say things they use to get punched in the face for. Good for you for saying f-you, my records are real and deserved! You and what you do are truly inspirational Wilcox!

[@manfredseidler1531]

A knife can be used in a crime or in a hospital to save lives and do good... Facebook has the chance to make the same moral choice and elevate fairness. Perhaps they can learn from their experience and be a better advocate in the future. I admire Lael with her accomplishments, gifts and talents, what an incredible inspiration. I got news for Lael, life is and will never be completely fair. Do the best you can and try to ride out of Dodge on a white horse and with your head held high. Sometimes it's just hard to fly like an eagle when you're surrounded with a bunch of vultures. I'm a 72-year-old recreational bike rider and to me you are an hero. Please keep sharing your adventures with the rest of us.

[@goldfever4570]

This film takes me from "I'd love to race the Tour Divide one day" to "I am making a plan to race". Thank you!

[@reinout1139]

Agreed. I almost want to not race it though and just do it as a massive ride. Group ride (without the race part) anyone?!

[@justinofboulder]

LOL...this film takes me to "I want nothing to do with the BS politics, I want to ride this ride and tell no-one...100% for myself"

[@obikedog]

I'm so glad Lael has her head on straight and disregarded (somewhat) the FB trolls. She shouldn't have had to scratch or bend over to the lengths she did for this awesome documentary to come into being. The fact she did it and didn't think twice about it after; completed the ride her way - speaks volumes to character and resolve. I am 100% sure the armchaired trolls don't have enough of either to even be shamed by their "actions".

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Even Better the Second Time! Great Film Rue & Lael!

[@antonydavid2953]

You are an inspiration to all cyclists and travellers of roads less travelled. The secret to a happy life - never indulge in FaceBook. It’s the lair of trolls and wannabes.

[@icdroid]

I started watching this by accident, but enjoyed it so much I watched the entire thing.

[@IvanRogerChavez]

Me too! Was watching stuff about bikepacking and stumbled upon this. Inspiring! Thanks Lael!

[@ddddheee]

Me three, love the video.... Makes want to do it.

[@jbbhrf5678]

Thumbs up for the grammar. Too many would have said "on accident," although it doesn't really matter in the grand scheme of things. Cheers!

[@jeremylofthouse6621]

Lael is a superhero.

[@hambone3145]

Lael is so cool

[@LarryKersey-fp4ce]

I Love how you ride great!

[@mongofan1]

I love watching everything Lael does. What an awesome person living an awesome and meaningful life. Very very inspiring. Deeply saddened and disappointed to learn of the strife coming from others in the cycling community. If she had vehicles supporting her, a bike mechanic traveling with her, I might agree with the challenges, but, absent that, I would guess that the media crew was actually a burden. The others were free to ride without considering the needs or position of a film crew. I look forward to the next event. I wish I'd learned of this kind of riding when I was younger and healthier but it is still wonderful to watch others as they enjoy it. Thanks so much, Lael, for bringing us along on the ride. Hugs. Alex

[@benzzoy]

It's the sad reality of modern social media life that there'll always be negativity from wet blankets and naysayers. Just ignore them, like Lael ignored the FB group, and you'll be better for it.

[@myfrequencies1912]

@@benzzoy 100%. Our own doubts & misgivings reflected, that's all.

[@jackmehauff5101]

I wish I did also. In my sixties now and I am going to do it anyway... I might die while I am trying but I'm going to die anyway... This girl has inspired me to do it...

[@wouterbikkel8276]

Haters gonna hate. Beautiful movie. Came her by accident. Want to ride my bike now! Well done Lael!

[@JamesWickendenVideography]

watching this just made me want to ride!

[@jerry680]

Lael, you and your partner are doing us all a favour by bringing these amazing rides to our computer screens! A lot of us love to ride and would love to attempt the things you do, but for various reason cannot. We are very lucky to have inspirational people like you sharing the beauty of what you do. As this sort of riding has become more popular in the last few years, what was a huge personal challenge with some basic ground rules suddenly becomes influenced by social media and keyboard warriors. No one can take away your successes and the race organisers need agree a basic set of rules that apply to everyone and not cave in to online pressure.

[@Ericsaidful]

What's crazy is that she may have ridden this while sick with COVID.

[@G-man45444]

When you get to my age ... 50 .... and I ride every day all year long in northern Saskatchewan Canada... you can look back on this and feel so proud of yourself for such an amazing history you created for yourself

[@RafaelHenrique-po3mg]

Hey Guys!! I’m sorry for my poor English!!! I’m from Brazil!! I would like to say that the story of Lael is amazing. The passion that she tells her story and link with the love of been out there is a true inspiration for go better and farther. My congratulation to the riders of tour divide and special for Lael!!

[@mikeosborne9251]

100% and dont worry about your English :-)

[@guilal149]

16 people of the facebook group watched this video. Thank you so much to all of you who made this film possible. To me, this is by far the most inspiring bikepacking film out there!

[@Hobomountainwander]

Another inspiring documentary about the Great Divide Mountain Biking Route. As person in a relationship with another man, it's unfortunate to see thay discrimination still exists. I believe you made the right choice to follow your heart. While it's not easy to scratch, it's about making the best choice for yourself. Keep doing what you love.

[@ErgonBike]

Goosebumps and well done! We think it's time to close up the office and head out for a ride! Great job Lael, Rue, rest media team and everyone else who pedaled the Divide this year!

[@movingpointcc]

👏 What a ride! This video captures the essence of cycling perfectly. Proud to add it to our collection and share the love. 🚴‍♀

[@hazmat5760]

Thank you for this. I hated to see the hatred from the cycling community, and at least one of the major instigators was punished for his actions. Keep doing what you do Lael!

[@JimmyDenver]

Really well done film, you drew me in and kept me there, I'm inspired now to ride. Thank you, Lael and friends.

[@anokabball24]

Excellent video. Lael is a monster in the best way possible. Screw anyone that would challenge the logistics of her ride. Any competitor could conceivably pay to fly/drive their significant other to any location(s) along the route if they chose to. Trying to make a case for emotional assistance is presumption. It COULD actually be a distraction. As long as her partner wasn't assisting in re-supply or lodging all is good and well.

[@edwin.jansen]

Lael, just do your thing and let the talkers talk. Haters will always hate and they love Facebook. Just don't give a CENSOR. Thank you and all who contributed for making the video! It is awesome! You are awesome!

[@dreuxdemack1417]

Back in 1976 I rode the inaugural Bikecentennial, the Trans Am route. And I thought my ride was tough. And a decade ago my good friend Mike Dion and Hunter Weeks produced Ride The Divide. It's a staple of my cycling psych. Now this new look at the Tour Divide, wow, great work. But that mud!!!

[@jaimealvarez8896]

Thank U Ms.Wilcox 4 inspiring me 2 b proud 2 ride my bicycle 2 work...even@times when I am so exhausted from work and I can't pedal anymore. I am reminded if u can overcome mental/physical barriers...So can I!😂🙋 Fort Worth,Texas

[@leftymadrid]

That's pretty much incredible, period!!!!! As a cyclist myself, I am amazed at some of the riders, just think how fit you have to be to "race" this event, not just ride it, but RACE IT!!!! AND self assisted!!! Simply incredible!!!!!

[@tinyadventuresbybike9796]

You will ride yourself fit automatically 😏 just eat food and push those pedal. Bears though ...

[@craigstarling2086]

amazing film. never listen to the haters.

[@Argyle302]

Exactly! Never apologize to these idiots!

[@sklarbikes]

This is so good! Lael is so inspiring, makes me want to go do this!

[@miggrodriguez9996]

Lael Wilcox you are such an inspiration. Kudos to you not just for enduring the Tours but not having to put up with sexists men who at the end of the day are intimidated by your abilities, skills and presence. Love and goodwill to you and keep on pedaling, for you are an example to follow.

[@Argyle302]

Girl, you are awesome! I just came across the 24 minute mark in this video, where the Facebook group is hating on you. You can’t give into these cancel culture people, you have to tell them to “F off” and give no apologies, and just do what you need to do for yourself! There is no excuse for them to hate on you, while encouraging the other male cyclist with his own camera crew. That is just not right. Keep on being awesome, and maybe someday you will break that record!

[@sterlingminick5909]

My son (who was 14 at the time) and I (who was 40 at the time) rode the route in 2019 from south to north. It was pretty awesome meeting many of the southbound racers in Colorado.

[@w4yland3r27]

She is so humble and passionate. She seems like such a nice, grounded person. Thanks for making this. I love it

[@johnmartin227]

She's an inspiration- as to the haters, "Don't take criticism from someone you wouldn't go to for advice"

[@yudishvarjangbhay2499]

Thank you, i really needed to hear that.

[@gradywright]

Rue, Lael and crew awesome job on this. Lael you’re always an inspiration. The cinematography and editing is REALLY good.

[@theadventurebiker]

Indeed.

[@stephenbrown5844]

Fantastic efforts guys. Just amazing scenery and country... I love the bike but could never imagine doing myles like that😳wow🇬🇧🇬🇧😉👊❤️❤️

[@Oliviaaaaaaaaaaaaaa]

Can't wait for her to crush her record next year. 💜

[@zkg03mjmk]

Came across this video after 5 years it got released. Still inspired by Lael’s story

[@fambacalp8917]

This makes me want to move to US for bikepacking and also want to run those roads and mountains. What a great athlete and mindset. Reminds me of ultra runner Courtney Dauwalter

[@lennyharp]

I did the Arizona Challenge a couple times in the 1980's and decided to do a 2 day solo ride of about 350 miles. I remember having to make decisions on the fly about routes, sleep if any and riding in the dark. It takes a bit of courage to take a dirt road and hop fences as you journey an unknown road or trail. I finished my solo ride of 2 days at 2:30 AM and slept 5 or 6 hours, got up and showed for work at the bike shop an hour late and worked all day till 6. Those must have been great rides as I remember them 40 years later.

[@johanvandijkh5042]

I had my morning ride but now I feel like night riding. I love this!

[@stevenutepass7671]

I could watch this video a dozen times & still not get enough. Lael pleasure meeting you, water i give everyone riding, trail angel. Ute Pass Steven Colorado on the ride. Thanks to take a couple minutes to get pictures together, your the angel, i just provide water.

[@DetectingMyrtleBeach]

Great film, great message, and great attitude. Screw the fb trolls. Keep riding and following your dreams. I'm going to buy some more Pearl iZumi stuff just because they're sponsoring you.

[@louismirabal]

What bike is she using?

[@bahagharidon1940]

I like it, " The race is out, but the ROUTE are still there". This is just like our own body, personal space and decisions in life, don't let others dictate you on how to live, as long as you didn't interfere other's life.

[@caperider1160]

It's fantastic... as you said. It's crazy, it's torture but it must be so fun. Essentially you get to experience everything about long distance cycling in one race. The terrains, weather chsnges etc... This is cyclists heaven.

[@speckofdust272]

Haters gonna hate .... ignore them ... your passion for the bike is inspiring and they are just jealous twisted cynical armchair experts , don’t waste your breathe on them 👍 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@felipemaya5031]

What a great video, amazing views,I'm going to watch the other videos.and buenas noches!

[@katblack276]

Facebook is trash. Dont let it cheapen your experience. You made a beuatiful film. You definately inspired me.

[@andrewtitus9187]

Thank you for sharing, Lael. Such poetry, such a gentle and strong connection to the world. Such spirit.

[@richallen9160]

I am a 58 year old dude who thinks you are absolutely awesome. I love that you live in the moment, but wish you would ignore the naysayers and bike your own ride. Keep up the faith, you INSPIRED ME!!!!!

[@yoohoo909]

Rock on Lael! +1 for you, -1 for social media and the prevalent double standard. Thank you PI for sponsoring such great motivation and inspiration.

[@ulysse7243]

Lael is the reason why many people start cycling. And this, my friends, will always be stronger than low I.Q people in a Facebook page. And the fact that she was so polite to accept all this going on is so inspiring and teaches a lot about her spirit. I'm sure she will DESTROY all the records in the years to come.

[@robmartin1792]

Absolutely beautiful!!! Massive inspiration to everyone! Kudos to Lael for standing her ground and realizing that she's not to be brought down by haters. A shining example of a tremendous human with heart, spirit and drive. To many more amazing adventures, Lael and Co. Thanks for your efforts in creating this sensational video!!!!

[@PJ-gp2hj]

Awesome, you are a winner!

[@chrischrzis]

Brilliant. Kudos to everyone who gets out there.

[@jetturner5433]

The Race is gone but the route is still there!!!!! That's all I needed to hear! Blessing!

[@iang2868]

Lael a truly amazing story so inspiring and to all who do this great Journey well done 👏👏👏👏👏😀👍

[@matthewhoopes4440]

Wow! Just great. A massive inspiration. In 2016, I was 42 and halfway through school. I was burned out on school I made a spontaneous decision to buy a bike, take a leave of absence and ride coast to coast. In two weeks I was on my way to Oregon to start my ride. Now, 8 "much too soon" years later I'm 50 and need another challenge and I think this is it. I will transform my Surly longhaul Trucker into a gravel tour bike. What's cool is I use to be a long trucker and I own a business in Deming, NM which is a very short distance from Antelope Wells. Fortunately I'm a travel nurse now so time off is not an issue. This video really triggered the emotions I felt on my first trip and I think I may need this. Who knows, maybe I'll see another commenter out there!

[@mtnbk71]

So much respect for you Lael and Rue. Loved the documentary! You are both great ambassadors for the sport! Happy I have had the chance to hang out and ride with you both. See you next year!!!

[@wo0dy62]

Who cares what a Facebook group says. Do what you do Rock Star. Super inspirational.

[@Hughes225]

Yeah Lael!!! I heard about you and this ride when Salsa terminated Jay's contract due to the controversy, and I'm so glad I got to see this and hear your perspective. Your decision to drop out based on the what was happening couldn't have embodied the spirit of such an endeavor more than yours. I can't wait to see what other totally crazy adventures you care to share with us!! Big Fan!!

[@Matyi-OG]

So I watched this during the COVID lockdown in 2020. Bought a gravel bike next week. Got 8th in my first ultra the next year and have been hooked ever since. Now starting my bikepacking brand. What a gateway drug you are, Lael!

[@jonpoon3896]

This is getting me excited for my tour of New Zealand next March

[@tonyhussey3610]

Jonathan Poon Gonna be amazing..good luck Mr Poon

[@CantTalkImRiding]

I spent two weeks in NZ, and it was so difficult to come home. I almost stayed. Enjoy the ride. Enjoy the food.

[@zoid88]

I've seen so many videos about Lael but everytime I'm stuck at how humble she is. What an amazing positive character and role model she is. As for the keyboard warriors on facebook, the world would be much better off ignoring them in general

[@philban2504]

Amazing effort Lael Wilcox, great perseverance, and grit to push on even though being hammered on social media. We spend to much time behind our phones, tablets, and technology instead of just enjoying the great outdoors. You are truly an inspiration keep on keeping on :D

[@archishmanparia1993]

You are Invincible and you are the Best LAEL!! I don't give a shit what anyone says!! I just know you are the best. Loads of Love to you

[@satyajeetnagargoje7948]

Imagine your girl being that passionate a rider as that girl right there. Keep up the good work. Kudos.

[@Scor-ah]

Amazing rider, who cares what petty people think or say...you are my hero

[@mrazzo15]

This was so inspiring! Hats off to Lael and everyone who to part 👍🏻 This video pretty much sums up why we do endurance riding anywhere in the world.

[@1luckyleppy]

Fantastic film. Lael Wilcox is an absolute machine and no matter what rules they put on her she will succeed. She has a winning mindset.

[@joeyherring5942]

This was excellent. Thanks for sharing your passion and taking us along. Would love to do this ride.

[@rroessing]

For all of us boring normal people it’s so great to be able to see a video of such a tour. Highly appreciated! I can not understand the reactions of that “community”... The race director clearly should have had the balls to keep you in the race and not accept your scrub because of idiot comments on FB or other (un-)social media. Big honors to Lael taking the consequences and finishing the course and the documentary. And to all those trolls out there: go and do something great yourself instead of annoying others.

[@BuffsVintageBikes]

"The tallest trees will always catch the most wind"... Keep doing what you do best.... Great video until it got the neg vibe 🙌🏼👍🏼

[@kimgaugemusic]

Love that. I'm stealing it. ;)

Regards from Costa Rica, Amazing video. Pura Vida

[@brylorbs69]

You are my bicycle hero and inspiration! XXOO

[@johnwelch557]

You are made of something that most people can't comprehend. I'm a 70 year old male and still ride 10,000+ miles per year. It gets harder, but that makes it more enjoyable some way or another. Say, maybe I could ride this route.....It's the ride, not the contrived goal I think. Thank you for your inspiring accomplishments that countless people are following your example no doubt. Live life, not just vicariously, but for the fun of it! You've made something contageous in a great way!

[@budycelyn]

awesome video and great achievement, it's such a shame that facebook trolls can prompt such drastic actions like scratching the race, don't mind those fools, your an inspiration to women and men, keep doing what your doing.

[@dirtbag4761]

Haters can go pound sand. The sacrifices you had to deal with made it so much more inspiring. Disconnect to connect. Thank you, thank you, Lael and Rue

[@jerzykryszczynski4892]

Super . Brawo. Greetings for you . CHICAGO 🌍🇵🇱🚲🇵🇱🌍POLAND 🚲🇵🇱🌍🇵🇱

[@Rosieeeeeee]

best video I've seen all year. I'm gonna start bikepacking one of these days and Lael has been a huge inspiration behind that.

[@kstiles2177]

Facebook is a cesspool. There is no other description. THANK YOU for doing this documentary, for showing us, and the world, things we can only imagine doing. Don't let the haters and small-minded people get to you :)

[@joebob1994]

Lael you are hugely inspiring, and what a beautiful film, this makes me wana do this route next year!!

[@noah-weiss]

Lael, if you ever see this comment! You do your thing so incredibly well, I can hardly describe it! And these people from the Facebook group have no idea. In the end, it's your own conviction and your own strength that gets you through the Tour Divide! And that includes thoughts and conversations to and with your loved ones, phone calls with all your supporters and the absolute freedom to do what you want to do! Please flush away all bad conscience and worries and do what you want to do, because you do it so incredibly well! And if people from a sleepy, lazy and incompetent Facebook group don't allow you to enjoy your incredible success, then pity them, but don't pay any attention to them! Best wishes from Austria and you are, on a par with Lachlan Morton, the most inspiring person in terms of cycling history that I have ever had the pleasure of getting to know (so far only through videos and media)! Keep up the good work!