TEAM SPOTLIGHT - YOU’LL BE FINE
If you rode in the 2023 Mammoth Gran Fondo you probably saw the amazing ladies that made up the team called “You’ll Be Fine” with their awesome matching kits and infectious good vibes!
Team You’ll Be Fine is located in Long Beach and they ride regularly as a small group, primarily on the weekends since they all have full-time jobs and kids. Not only do they ride bikes, but they also swim and run together.
We had a chance to catch up with a couple of the team members and ask them some questions about their experience at the 2023 Mammoth Gran Fondo and how they approach training for an event as weekend warriors.
Christine Melia - Team You’ll Be Fine
What was the inspiration around your team name?
Our teammate Mandy has always told us, "Pish posh, You'll be Fine!" whenever we doubt ourselves, that this activity seems daunting. So we decided to call our team, YBF! Guess what? We are always fine even when we want to quit.
What is it that you love about riding with an organized team/group on a regular basis?
Our team keeps us motivated, gets us out on our bikes, and keeps us company. Safer in groups and more fun in general. We have also found a strong friend group through our activities.
How many times have you ridden the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
Only once in 2023, we are coming back!
When you are riding gran fondo type events what are your goals?
Our goal is to safely finish and have all the fun while doing it. Yes, we care about our time and performance, but really it is about fun and riding.
How do you keep yourself motivated to train and prepare for an event like the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
Team YBF is an active bunch to begin with, but we have made it a habit to ride almost every weekend during the summer leading up to the event. This year I personally bought a Peloton and was able to ride at home during the week which was helpful.
What is your general strategy/approach with a ride like the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
I do not believe we had a strategy other than get as many rides and distance in as possible ahead of the race. We were aware of the altitude and hills which we are lacking in Long Beach. The race was on Saturday and we arrived Thursday evening which assisted us with the acclimation.
What would be your main suggestion to someone riding the Mammoth Gran Fondo for their first time?
Don't push yourself too hard. If you do not live in a hilly area that is high altitude, the race can prove difficult even for the most experienced rider. Remember to have fun. As I recall, everyone I met during the race was all smiles and enjoying the scenery. The Gran Fondo is a great race and highly recommended for all.
When things get super hard, what do you tell yourself to psych yourself up to keep pedaling and complete the ride?
Christy, You'll be fine! Also, to keep pedaling, like keep swimming. With every pedal you are closer to the finish line.
What is your favorite post “big ride” snack and beverage?
Breakfast Tacos and BEER!
Mandy Hackenberg - Team You’ll Be Fine
What was the inspiration around your team name?
"You'll be fine" has been a regularly stated phrase within our group of friends, typically relating to some sort of ride, running race, cold water night time swim, and whenever we're trying to convince new people to join our group. Some things might seem daunting, scary, unfamiliar, etc., but in the end, we're always "fine". Mostly better than fine, since we've accomplished something new and exciting with friends, but "fine" meaning we've survived and are better for it. So, "You'll be fine" is a great catch all and motivating phrase to keep going, keep exploring, keep pushing, because, you'll be fine.
What is it that you love about riding with an organized team/group on a regular basis?
We solve the world's problems, one pedal at a time. :) We can push ourselves, or we can ride far at a slow pace, while chatting the whole time and ending with a bloody mary or get together with each others families. What better way to hang with friends than cycling.
How many times have you ridden the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
Just once so far
When you are riding gran fondo type events what are your goals?
Have fun and feel strong
How do you keep yourself motivated to train and prepare for an event like the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
Riding with my friends and making a vacation out of it!
What is your general strategy/approach with a ride like the Mammoth Gran Fondo?
Don't push too hard to start. Be prepared for any weather. Know that the biggest hills are at the end and save up for those.
What would be your main suggestion to someone riding the Mammoth Gran Fondo for their first time?
Be prepared for weather changes, make sure your brakes are solid, save those legs for the end.
When things get super hard, what do you tell yourself to psych yourself up to keep pedaling and complete the ride?
"You'll be fine!!" I also keep my parents in my head pushing me along. My mom is 73 years old and just walked 30 miles for her birthday -- she walks 8 miles a day and rides her bike 40 miles once a week. My dad walks to the gym and rides the stationary bike everyday. They are incredible and so supportive. My dad doesn't miss an event of mine. It's easy to keep going when I have them.
What is your favorite post “big ride” snack and beverage?
Nachos, veggie burgers, french fries, and beer!