• 18 years since my first Sea Otter Classic where I competed in the trials comp
• 15 years of performing trials shows
• 6 years teaching free yoga classes

Sea Otter Classic: Now at age 37, my preparation for a 10 trials show event is a little different. I trail ride more than trials ride these days, and trials requires solid conditioning in order to pull off smooth, consistent, energetic, and entertaining trials shows. As I log practice time, it’s always amazing observing the gradual process of my body slowly catching up to what my mind knows I should be able to do! 

Feeling at one with my bike takes time. A good marker of bike intimacy is when you ride someone else’s bike that is identical to yours but it feels like a totally different bike. I have two trials bikes that are identical and so I need to ride them both enough to know clearly which one I prefer as my show bike.

I’ve dealt with some neck and back issues over the winter from skiing and glad to have them under control with thanks to Trailside Physio and Twist Conditioning.

The Sea Otter Classic is my first big event of the year so I also need to make sure my equipment is set, not just bikes – but my truck, trailer, demo obstacles, PA equipment, audience fencing and signage, posters, etc.

If you happen to be at Sea Otter, here are my show times!

• Thursday, April 14:  2 p.m.
• Friday, April 15: 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m.
• Saturday, April 16: 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m.
• Sunday, April 17: 11:30 a.m

I haven’t been progressing my skills as a trials rider for the last few years, so it’s inspiring for me to know that visitors still enjoy and look forward to my show each year. It’s a pretty cool gig that I can use my riding passion to contribute to the celebratory atmosphere of such a fantastic cycling event.

I started up the free yoga program at Sea Otter and it has become a great tradition, with some participants who have come every year. Again, if you coming to the event, join me for yoga! Here’s the schedule:

• Friday, 8:00-9:00am
• Saturday, 8:00-9:00am
• Sunday, 8:00-9:00am

Happy Spring Everyone!

Ryan Leech