By Victoria Gaither
Mountain biking is more than just a sport, it’s a catalyst that brings people together, transforming strangers into a tight-knit community.
On Saturday, June 1, a group of downhill bikers were taking a break from the trails in the Snowshoe parking lot.
The group — hailing from Canada, Pennsylvania, and Saratoga Springs, New York — only met on this day because they parked beside each other.
On the outside, looking in, you would think they are best friends and have known each other for years because of the laughing and story-telling.
“I think the fun part about mountain biking is that you don’t necessarily meet the same people each time. Since you all know the same things, it’s easy to strike up a conversation out of nowhere. You can make friends within a day, never get their phone numbers, but have a great time,” said Chris Miller from Saratoga Springs, New York.
Neal Capell, a first-time downhill mountain bike rider to Killington, was impressed with the trails and on-the-spot friendships. “I think the mountain biking community is great. There are so many friendly people in the community and welcoming personalities. Everyone is usually on the trails for the same reason: to enjoy themselves.”
Capell came from Canada to ride Killington and added, “Most people are happy to see you on the trails on the bike and are usually welcoming and interested in chat.”
Some of the conversations were about kids, family, and the love of biking.
Conner Kelly, also from Canada, discovered in his downhill experience, “Mountain biking is super chill, and I don’t think anyone has ever run into a mountain biker who has been standoffish. Everyone wants to be your friend and hang out.”
All the guys say, if you are new to the biking community, get lessons and make friends. It will make for a better experience.
Chris Trishee, riding Killington from Pennsylvania, explained, “Go at your own pace and stay at your comfort level. It’s okay to ask for advice.”
Trishee took a berm too fast and wiped out, but he didn’t let it ruin his day. He laughed in the parking lot with his new friends. “That’s downhill mountain biking,” he said. Things happen, but having new and old friends at the end of the day makes the pain better.
