Betty Birrell picked up mountain biking nearly 30 years ago and at 73, she’s still riding serious trails on the North Shore. So Kara Williard and I sat down with Betty to talk about her trajectory as a mountain biker; motherhood; how the sport has (and hasn’t) changed; and the North Shore Betty documentary short that Patagonia released recently. Along the way, Betty shares some great insights on staying motivated and continuing to do the things we love in the outdoors long after a lot of folks have hung it up.
TOPICS & TIMES:
- Betty’s introduction to MTB (2:50)
- The early North Shore riding scene (5:57)
- Motherhood & having an “adventure buddy” (13:54)
- Perseverance & keeping going (22:22)
- Risk tolerance & aging (26:29)
- Role models and mentorship (32:05)
- Keeping current (36:15)
- Self-identity & athletics (42:14)
- Betty’s Big Idea (48:01)
RELATED LINKS:
That is one of the most awesome interviews that I have heard recently! As an avid skier/road biker/mountain biker in my mid-sixties, I’m looking forward to another 30 years or so of fun! Thank you for getting the word out there that we remain vibrant, excited about our sport, and wanting to encourage others of our generation to feel the same way! Again, THANK YOU!!
Thanks, Led! Glad you liked it.
Such a great Episode and very inspirational. Just turned 51 and have dealt with several injury consequences over the last few years which impscted my ability to do as much activity as I wanted. Betty’s thoughts on the mental game of resetting your expectations and enjoyment really resonated. Hope I’m still ripping my bike and skis in 20 years like she is!!