Lea Davison

Even though I retired from World Cup racing, I competed in the Mountain Bike Marathon World Championships. This is a longer format of racing than I have raced for my entire career. It felt like a new challenge and such a fun, no pressure way to return to international racing at the highest level. I had the time of my life at the World Championships. My wife, Frazier, and I traveled to Denmark, a country that neither of us had been to before. It was so neat to spend time in Copenhagen for two days and then to ride bikes together in the Danish forests and countryside. Plus, my race went really well! It was SO FUN to be back racing with the best in the world.

As I continue pivoting out of competitive cycling, I’m so excited about trying ALL the different sports that I haven’t been able to do since my focus has had to be so narrow on cycling. It feels like a world of opportunities is opening for me, and I’m so thrilled to say yes and try it all!

The hardest part is that first step out the door. It can be so challenging to get ready, get changed, and start moving, but I have found that once I take that first step, start moving, and get the momentum going, it’s way easier from there. It doesn’t always need to be an epic adventure. Just a simple ten-minute walk outside will make you feel better. I always feel better after I move outside.

Life is filled with ups and downs, even for me, a person naturally filled with joy. For me, time spent outside is my go-to recalibration. If I’m feeling down, upset, or stuck, I go outside, and things always seem a little bit clearer and better.

I think everyone deserves to have the grounding and restorative experience of time in the outdoors. Underrepresented and marginalized communities have not been afforded the access to the outdoors that privileged communities, me included, have enjoyed. The outdoors has the power to change lives. It certainly has played a central role in my life. We must work to create access for all to the outdoors and give everyone these opportunities.

You belong. It can be really intimidating trying a new sport. I’m here to say, it’s enough that you are showing up and trying. Also, it helps to reach out to a friend or a friendly store, like L.L Bean, to get some advice if you are just beginning.

The best memories are made outside. In fact, adventures outside have been the pivotal bonding force in my life. There’s something about sharing an experience outside, whether it be overcoming bitter cold temps on a full moon hike or getting to see a rainbow together, that brings me closer to the people in my life. Most moments together with the important people in my life are outside. It’s everything to me.