BFC 2019 Women’s Champion: Ruth Sherman

Age:  60 (as of Race Day 2019)

Time:  2:11:39

Team:  GGWDW (Gravel Grinding Wine Drinking Women)

Occupation:  Retired

Cycling & Athletic Experience:
I’ve been involved with sports throughout my entire life. Basketball was my primary passion, but too many ankle sprains forced me to leave the sport. I began to bike ride more for exercise but missed the competition so I took up bike racing at the age of 48 to get my competitive fix. I started in road and cyclocross racing but now ride and race mostly gravel.  

Life over the past year:
Enjoying the good life – riding; playing with my dog; supporting my husband who continues to work (but not for much longer); working on trails, cutting firewood and making maple syrup on our 215 acres of woods; hanging out with friends; and traveling.

Any Special Training: Ride hard and wine down.

Goals: To remain competitive in gravel racing as long as my aging body permits me to do so.

Why the BFC?  It’s a big, fun, well organized event and has a good party at the end.

How is the BFC different?
The BFC is one of the longest running gravel races around and attracts a lot riders. The race welcomes cyclists of all ages and skill levels so there is a large cross section of riders from very experienced and competitive racers to those who are riding a course like the BFC for the first time. It’s great to see so many people and families come together to enjoy cycling. Support from the local community also is tremendous – where else would you find so many volunteers willing to stand out on those woods roads for hours during black fly season!

How can we improve the BFC?  Free beer after the race!