From Behind The Corn: 11 Stephanie Bennett

Credit the nice man standing next to me who took a photo for my mom (Showing the other super supportive single speed woman out there)

What did your Gravel Worlds experience teach you?

“To say yes.

Ten years ago I met @timmy_typo. Tim, a Lincoln Nebraska native had found himself In Lancaster, Pennsylvania for work. We became fast friends, bonding over a shared love for cycling. Tim talked of the midwest gravel and suggested we sign up for Gravel Worlds. Always up for an adventure and a challenge it was an easy yes.

At the time, I had never done any gravel riding. But as someone originally from Vermont with a love for it's unpaved paths, maybe I would be a natural. Tim had the grand plan of entering me into the 2014 Woman’s Single Speed Race. I had no idea what racing a single speed on gravel even meant. Still, I said yes and bought a used steel All-City single speed.That bike and I have been inseparable ever since.

Not long after our Gravel Worlds adventure in 2014, Tim moved west, and sadly, my riding dwindled for years—until I said yes to Patrick.

In the spring of 2022, Patrick found me on Strava. He convinced me I should have a road bike for road riding, and I’ve learned so much from him. Most importantly, how essential pedaling is to my little world.

Ten years had passed since I arrived 20 minutes late to the start of my first gravel event. The 152 mile single speed race that came to a sprint to the finish for 2nd place. I was going to be 50 for the 2024 Gravel Worlds and decided it was time to venture west once again.

Like many great things, Gravel Worlds has grown into a bigger, more beautiful community since 2014. Gone are the simple postcard entries and lottery ticket checkpoints. It’s become something far more expansive and equally special.

Early in 2024, I committed to diving back into the lessons of patience that single speed riding teaches. Back into the lesson that our bodies and minds can do incredible things—far more than we often give them credit for. There’s no limit.

I said yes to Tim.

I said yes to Patrick.

I said yes to my own strength and perseverance.

I will always be thankful for Tim and Patrick.

And I will always be thankful I said yes.”

To give.

I’m still navigating my way to give more, but I have left Gravel Worlds with a newfound respect and desire to do just that. The two moments that stood out are meeting Gravel Worlds’ Jes and witnessing a young man ride fearlessly despite incredible odds.

Jes. From the early hours to the late night, Jes gave tirelessly. From placing signs and route markers to cheering on every participant, Jes gave. All in addition to the behind the scenes time given by her and all the others that made the day one of my absolute favorites. If only I’d had more than a small bottle of water to offer her. Jes embodies the heart of Gravel Worlds. I admire Jes and the Gravel Worlds’ family for the joy they find in giving. They're selflessly dedicated to creating an event for all to shine, from first to last. I also met Jes’s mom, another beautiful character in this chapter of my life who will always bring a smile to my face.

Lukas. Despite his disability, Lukas showed that limitations and impossibilities don’t exist. Before the 2024 Gravel Worlds, I found myself questioning whether I was doing enough. Could I push the same single speed gear ratio I did a decade ago? While I never doubted my ability to finish, I often wondered if I could do so with strength and confidence. I did it. I did it with an odd combination of quiet confidence and humility and knowing that there’s still so much more room for growth, even at 50. Watching Lukas ride with determination was humbling and inspiring. It reminded me that growth is always possible. Lukas and the extraordinary people at Adventure for All reminded me of the power of perseverance and giving.”

Photo credit Andrea Troy of myself and another single speeder (both encouraging woman I met out on the course)

Would you like to shout out any people who made that day special for you?

“I’m grateful for so many people.

Tim, for introducing me to gravel and single speed.

Patrick, who brought life back into my legs and reignited my passion for cycling.

For my friends at Hush Money Bikes

(@hushmoneybikes), who built a beautiful Wilde gravel bike a few years ago that renewed my love for the roads less traveled.

Liz (also known as Fern .), who inspires me daily. Liz has built a huge cycling community for women and taught me a simple yet powerful lesson on a day when my legs finished just half of the scheduled interval training—some days, half is my whole. Liz has been an incredible resource and a true inspiration, offering invaluable support and guidance. I hope that someday, Gravel Worlds will have the honor of sharing their roads with Liz.

I’m fortunate to have people like Liz, Patrick, James (@nicastroj) and Jason (@mrjcav927) that continue to inspire and to push me beyond yesterday’s ceiling.

I must also mention Vince. Sometimes we look for excuses and mine was retiring the old All City for a shiny new single speed. I wanted a versatile bike for this journey. One that could also be completely dedicated to single speed and I came across Chumba (@chumbausa). Timing was tight but Vince built me an absolute gem for my return to Gravel Worlds. The Chumba and I had just a month to get acquainted. Gravel Worlds was my third ride on the Terlingua and it felt like we had know each other for years. I still haven’t washed the Nebraska dust off it.

A special thank you to my friend Jill and my mom, Joan, who took care of my zoo at home. That in itself is a great challenge and accomplishment!

Finally, thank you to the incredible women out there riding single speed. Even if only briefly, it’s a gift to pedal alongside you. Single speed riders feel like a rare breed, and I’m grateful for the lessons and connections I've made along the way with the few others out there. The contrast between 2014 and 2024 has me feeling well rounded. I’ve chased and been chased. I hope we meet again, Gravel Worlds.”

Just after finishing my second Single Speed Gravel Worlds

What would you like to tell someone if they were debating on signing up for an event like Gravel Worlds?

“Say yes. 

Gravel Worlds has been an incredible opportunity to challenge myself and set personal goals. It’s not just about competition. It’s about pushing your limits, building resilience, and discovering what you’re truly capable of. It’s an invitation to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the journey of training and perseverance.

For me, Gravel Worlds has fostered a sense of community and connection. Training for Gravel Worlds has improved my physical and mental health. The event itself left me feeling accomplished and empowered. It’s been a beautiful step forward in my journey of self discovery and growth.

It’s amazing what your body and mind can achieve when you simply say yes and show up. The lessons from the event will continue to unfold in beautiful ways long after you cross the finish line.

So. Say yes. You are capable of more than you ever imagine.

Do it.

For you.”

First mile of the race into the sunrise