When Bicycling Magazine Senior Test Editor and good friend, Tara Seplavy, reached out to let me know that she had chosen Athletic Brewing Company to be included in their Community Tested Gear Feature, asking me to choose my favorite brew, I flip-flopped between maximum stoke and total indecision paralysis. Even more exciting, though, was finding out I would be featured among a cast of some of my most admired folks in the cycling community.

Anyone who’s been in my kitchen knows I stock a couple of cabinet shelves worth of Athletic Brews at all times, and I am never one to pass up on a new seasonal brew. Enjoying a rotation of flavors is one of my favorite thing about Athletic. But my favorite of their craft brews is the Cerveza Atletica - a “Mexican Light Copper Lager, made with summer time refreshment in mind”. Perfect for post-ride rehydration on a warm day, or really any day. I showed Bicycling Magazine’s photo editor a couple of my favorite local spots to ride trails, and he snapped some gorgeous shots, including the money shot with the iconic George Washington Bridge as a backdrop.

A few weeks later, the Gear of the Year Issue came out, and I was finally able to see Tara’s full vision for the feature in print. I truly don’t think she could have done a better job assembling this community: Reggie Miller (Castelli ‘Say Their Names’ Jersey), Ajoa Abrokwa (Haute Hijab) , Marley Blonsky (Pearl Izumi Women’s Monsoon WxB Jacket), Molly Cameron (Ride Group Wristband), Randy Locklair (Giro Artex MIPS Helmet), & Renee Hutchens (OXOX Together We Ride Tank). Every person chose gear that was personally meaningful to them, and the feature as a whole makes a big impact in its representation and message. It’s about so much more than just gear. Kudos, Tara & Bicycling Mag. Many bike industry folks just talk about DEI. Way to be about it.

Read the full feature at Bicycling Magazine & pick up the Gear of the Year Issue at your local newsstand!