Get the Gals Riding: A Night of Learning, Community, and Stoke
We were absolutely blown away by the turnout and enthusiasm for the Get the Gals Riding event held at the Hostel Shoppe on April 2, 2025.
This event was created for women cyclists aged 14 and older, with the goal of making riding more accessible, empowering, and fun. We wanted to provide a space where beginners could gain foundational knowledge and seasoned riders could dive into more challenging subjects, all while building a supportive community. The evening featured insightful discussions and plenty of opportunities to ask questions about everything from chamois to tips on how to fall safely.
We were fortunate to be joined by two incredible guest speakers who brought a wealth of experience to the conversation. Kim Basala is a PMBIA-certified mountain bike coach and co-founder of Girls on Gravel who was able to draw from her coaching experience to offer invaluable guidance to newer riders. A former Ironman triathlete, Kim knows firsthand what it takes to push through challenges and grow as a rider. Maria Osowski, an accomplished racer and Leadville 100 Belt Buckle winner, offered valuable insights from a physiological standpoint. As a physical therapist, she was able to provide expert advice on training adjustments and how to listen to your body.
One of the most engaging topics of the night was the impact of training around the menstrual cycle. Maria and Kim shared valuable knowledge on how hormonal changes can affect performance and recovery, encouraging riders to listen to their bodies and adjust their training accordingly. The discussion also touched on fueling strategies for endurance rides and races, with tips on the best nutrition for sustained energy - including a unique tip from Kim to consume chia seeds soaked in pickle juice for slow-digesting electrolytes. Our panelists also debated the benefits of shorts versus bibs, and the best materials for staying cool and comfortable on long rides.
Beyond the discussions, the night was packed with plenty of perks that made the event extra special. Attendees enjoyed a variety of refreshments, with homemade pizza made by Hostel Shoppe Sales Floor Manager Chris being a crowd favorite. Skratch Labs energy chews and drinks were available to sample, giving riders a chance to test out new nutrition options. The excitement peaked during the raffle, which featured an incredible lineup of prizes–including a roof rack and four bikes. We also hosted a gently used gear donation drive, where cyclists could pick up apparel and equipment to help them feel more prepared and comfortable on their rides.
Whether you left with new knowledge, a fresh training perspective, or even a new bike from the raffle, we hope you feel more confident and inspired to keep riding. This is just the beginning–stay tuned for more events, group rides, and opportunities to grow as a female cyclist.