A few months ago, I was told about a 73-year-old woman who rides black and double blacks trails about a year ago by a friend and then saw as most of you the Patagonia mini-documentary. A few days later, I bumped into Betty Birrel randomly in a restaurant in Squamish and asked her about doing a trail preview.
We headed to Cypress Mountain and rode one of her favourite lap, Fifth Horseman.
Over the years, I've been lucky to ride with some incredibly talented people, but this day with Betty was something special.
Follow Betty and I on social media @bbbirrel
@remymetailler
And @mikelevy - diet too. lol
Couldn't see backing out due to Giant SUV. Guided him out, asked him how he liked it. Me being me, asked him how old he was.
91, still get 'er sideways!
Turns out he was a jet fighter pilot.
You never know 'til you ask.
The riding was great too.
Fixed that for ya.
Today you have:
1- Inspired me. To see how no matter what we are or who we are we human beings just want to be better and have more fun.
2- humble me. Your riding skills are very impressive. period.
3- make me so happy. To know we can be doing what we like at any age or level if just really want to!
For those of you who don't live near the "Shore" 5 th Horseman is gnarly ! Even for North Shore trails .
Inspired.
I loved watching her doggo digging in the background while Remy was giving tips around 5:00.
- Betty, incredible rider and legend...yet very very humble it seems. Humility never gets old.
- Remy - can't help but take the french line lol
Maybe she can have her own monthly segment/series on Pinkbike?