A More Inclusive Rebecca’s Private Idaho

I’m thrilled to share some barrier-breaking news from my friend and former podcast guest, Rebecca Rusch.

Rebecca smiling and pumping her first, wearing her Reb Bull kit.

Rebecca’s setting up for her 9th annual Rebecca’s Private Idaho — one of the largest and most celebrated gravel bike races in the world — and she just told me that this year’s participating cyclists will now be able to race in two new categories: Non-Binary/FTW (Femme, Trans, Women) and Para-Cyclist.

The starting pack taking off, letting it rip.

A stoked rider showing their excitement on the bike.

A lone rider in a field of tall yellow grass.

The new Non-Binary/FTW and Para-Cyclist race categories will ensure all athletes can participate in a safe and supportive setting, with the same podium recognition as other categories. I think this is REALLY awesome and I was equally pleased to learn that the event will also focus on raising awareness for the rich Indigenous history that touches the Idaho landscape. Course maps, signs, and landmarks are all being changed to reflect the heritage of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe.

A group of riders crossing a bridge over a river.

A ride at the front of a line, all working to climb a steep gravel pass.

Part of RPI’s mission is “connecting people, place, and purpose.” With these new measures in place, Rebecca and her team continue to help us move ever-forward to a more inclusive, accessible, and aware society. As she herself said, “we are all teammates in the human race.”