The El Tour De Tucson concluded with an exhilarating award ceremony, where cyclists celebrated their accomplishments in front of friends and family. The event, held in Tucson, Arizona, showcased a range of competitors, from seasoned athletes to newcomers, all sharing their personal stories of determination and success.
Among the standout performances were cyclist duo Riley Wraith and Chase Bullis, who expressed their joy after crossing the finish line. Wraith, who secured third place in the 62-mile juniors category, described cycling as an unmatched sport. “I would say that biking is definitely one of the best sports, but I’m biased,” he commented. “It gets you outside, lets you do a lot of things, and you meet new people.”
Bullis, who also participated in the race, reflected on the challenges of the day. “I was a little tired because it was windy,” he said, “but I felt really good finishing.” The pair, both members of the Arizona Cycling Association, had only begun training a week prior to the event, yet their passion propelled them to impressive finishes.
Emotional Triumphs and New Goals
Another inspiring story from the day came from Tracy LaMarche, who won the adaptive category for the grueling 102-mile event. LaMarche described the emotional rollercoaster she experienced throughout the race. “There are so many emotions,” she said. “It goes from being down in the doldrums and thinking, ‘I cannot do this, what did I sign up for,’ to riding along at 28-29 miles an hour and thinking, ‘Oh my God, I can do this.'”
LaMarche’s victory was not just about the race; it symbolized a significant personal achievement. “Just the elation that happens and the feeling of empowerment is incredible,” she noted. This was her first year competing, and she credited her success to her team and rigorous training. “All this year has just been getting familiar with being on a bike and how to pedal,” she explained. “I do not wear my right leg to cycle, so it has been a learning experience.”
Looking ahead, LaMarche has set her sights on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. “This was a huge mental boost for me to think that I might actually have the skill level to get there,” she said, highlighting the importance of her recent success in fueling her ambitions.
The El Tour De Tucson not only celebrated cycling excellence but also served as a platform for athletes to share their journeys and inspire others. As the event wrapped up, the camaraderie among participants and their supporters exemplified the spirit of the cycling community, making this year’s awards ceremony a memorable occasion for all involved.