Feb 7, 2020 – Sep 20, 2020
Trailblazers: The Creative Story Behind Mountain Biking in Santa Cruz
Explore how the Santa Cruz County mountain biking community blazed the trail for creativity and innovation.
Santa Cruz County is currently experiencing one of the most significant fires this area has seen in years. The grief, fear, and uncertainty of this crisis are palpable as our hearts go out to all those that have been impacted.
Among the losses have been the very mountains that inspired our current mountain biking exhibition, Trailblazers.
If you are currently seeking a distraction or levity in your day then take a look at, journalist and avid mountain biker, Kyle Kelley's reflection and review of Trailblazers after his visit back in February. Written for the popular cycling and outdoor enthusiast online publication, The Radavist, the article can be found here.
His article is a call to appreciate the privilege of enjoying the great outdoors with friends as our community evacuates the beloved hillsides featured in the show. And while this article may not be what he first intended, it’s well worth a read as we “fare thee well to one of the best mountain bike exhibitions that no one will ever see."
Photos by @kylebkelley for @theradavist
Similar to how the first mountain bikers creatively updated their bikes to better enjoy the hillside with friends, there is a great need for our community to come together, help, and adapt.
We are keeping our resource page updated with new volunteer opportunities and donation requests from our partner organizations and Santa Cruz County. You can find that list here. One way you can help is by joining our friends over at Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz and their call for volunteers at Cal Fire call center on Ocean Street. Sign up for a 2-hour shift to answer calls for those seeking urgent information from a friendly voice.
Whether it's earthquakes, pandemics, or fires Santa Cruz County has proven to be strong and resilient. We will get through this together, so let's remain attentive and lead with empathy as we continue to lift up our neighbors through these tough times. Please send us any additional information or opportunities we should feature in our resource roundup via messenger, DMs, tags, or email (ashley@santacruzmah.org). I check them all regularly and am always happy to receive your suggestions and updates. Wishing you well, Ashley.
Support the MAH
If you're able, please consider making a gift or becoming a member to ensure a sustainable and resilient MAH. Your contribution directly supports connecting our community through these uncertain times.
Related Reads
Tue, Aug 18, 2020
Using Art to Create Harmonious Trails
Read Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz's creative solution to educate new riders and create harmonious trail experiences for both new and veteran users.
Tue, Mar 24, 2020
Santa Cruz Mountain Biking Roundup
We've gathered together some timely content for our mountain bike-loving friends. Get to know some of the frame builders featured in our exhibition and learn how to take the trails safely.