When I started putting together my schedule for Sea Otter this year, I realized it’s been 24 years since my first. Priorities have shifted a bit since then. I remember showing up as a kid, fresh out of a Tahoe winter, trying to comprehend how everyone was so damn fit by April. A move to San Diego a few years later answered that question. I digress.
This year, I’m fortunate to be working with brands I was either using back then, thank you, Giro, or ones I used to pore over in magazines, setting goals to one day own what were, and still are, the preeminent names in cycling, hello Pinarello and Assos. Like last year, I’ll be leading and joining rides in support of these companies, largely for the simple reason of enjoying the community we’ve built around them. Show up with a good attitude and you can expect, at minimum, a great ride with great people and a bit of free swag. There will also be giveaways after Friday and Saturday’s rides that could see you walking away with a meaningful amount of cycling gear. These will be worth your time.
If you have any questions, please shoot me a DM on Instagram. Otherwise, details for each ride are below:
Thursday — Road
Giro & Heavy Water Coffee Present Justin Williams + Dante Young
9:00: Coffee ‘n hang, with stimulating libations provided by Heavy Water Coffee
9:30: Roll
Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3477312844564608606
Starting from Giro’s booth, P124
Friday — Gravel
Gravel Chill & Cruise with Raylyn Nuss, Hosted by Pinarello
2:30: Roll
Route: https://www.strava.com/clubs/444462/group_events/3479260874015153158
4:00: Drinks + Raffle
Raffle will include Q36.5 clothing, Pinarello swag, and a set of Zipp wheels.
Starting from Pinarello’s booth, A36.
Saturday — Road
Presented by Assos and Pinarello, this is an opportunity to ride one of Monterey’s crown jewels, 17-Mile Drive, exchanging the crowds and chaos of the Sea Otter Classic for the solitude of the Del Monte Forest and its stunning coastal roads. This is one not to miss.
8:15am: Pastries + Coffee from L’Auberge and acclaimed head chef, Justin Cogley
9:00: Roll
Route: https://www.strava.com/clubs/99524/group_events/3477703509646030182
Post-ride will include additional libations and food, along with a raffle featuring Assos and Pinarello goods.
This ride starts and finishes at L’Auberge property, Carmel Beach Hotel. Parking around the property is abundant and secure.
