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Gearhub Ambassador Steve Kelly Crushes Fernie’s Trail to Ale Challenge — TWICE!
- Posted on
- By Gearhub
Here in Fernie, we know a thing or two about epic trails, big climbs, and well-earned descents. But if there's one local challenge that truly puts mountain bikers to the test, it's the legendary Trail to Ale — and our GearHub Ambassador Steve Kelly just knocked it out of the park twice in one go!
Two Laps, Three Peaks, Endless Stoke
This ride links three of Fernie’s iconic climbs — Hyperventilation, P9, and Swine Flu — all in one massive loop. Tackling it once is a badge of honour. Doing it twice? That’s legendary.
"The first two pics are from the top of Hyperventilation — temps are still coolish and two laps done!"
Starting off in the early morning hours, Steve hit the summit of Hyperventilation with energy to spare. The cool temps made for ideal climbing conditions as he completed his second lap up this beast of a trail. Most people would call it a day after one lap, but Steve was just getting started.
"The second two are from the top of P9. Things are heating up and I'm starting to feel the effort as the day's temps are climbing."
By the time he hit P9, the sun was fully awake and so was the burn in the legs. But nothing was going to stop Steve from finishing strong.
"The last two trail pics are at the top of Swine Flu and I'm really feeling the 32°C heat of the day and the effort."
With the temps rising into the 30°'s, Steve powered through the final climb to the top of Swine Flu — finishing his second full loop of the Trail to Ale. That’s over 2,000m of climbing and countless switchbacks under a blazing sun.
The Right Bike for the Job
A feat like this demands gear that can handle it — and Steve’s Rocky Mountain Element delivered on every pedal stroke.
"The Rocky Mountain Element worked flawlessly and the GearHub support got me there."
We’re stoked to hear it. Big kudos to Steve for showing what determination (and a great bike) can accomplish.
Finishing Strong (With San Pellegrino)
And finally, no Trail to Ale is complete without a celebratory drink — but don’t be fooled by the glass.
"That’s not beer in the glass as I’d probably puke at that point. It’s orange San Pellegrino." says Steve.
Smart choice. Hydration over hops when you’ve just crushed a double Trail to Ale!
Thinking of taking on the Trail to Ale yourself? Come see us at GearHub Sports. Whether you need a dialed-in bike like the Rocky Mountain Element, expert service, or trail beta, we’re here to get you out and climbing.
Congrats again to Steve — Fernie proud!
