Inspirational Women Mountain Bikers Over the Age of 60

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Whether you are in your twenties or pushing eighty, we can all gain some inspiration from these amazing women who are still mountain biking despite their age. Great for a shot in the arm to get out there and ride (no more excuses).

Betty Birrell

Betty Birrell, affectionately known as “North Shore Betty,” is a true inspiration in the mountain biking world, proving that age is no barrier to shredding trails.

• Starting Late, Going Strong: Betty began mountain biking at the age of 45. Now in her 70s, she is still tackling the challenging trails of British Columbia’s North Shore, famous for its technical terrain and slippery roots.
• Parenting on the Trails: As a single mom, Betty incorporated mountain biking into her life with her son, Hayden. They often rode double-black-diamond trails together, and she even hitchhiked back up mountain roads to retrieve their car after rides—a testament to her creativity and dedication to the sport.
• Breaking Stereotypes: On the trails, she occasionally faces skepticism due to her age and gender. However, she loves proving doubters wrong, confidently riding through technical sections that many struggle with. Betty finds inspiration in redefining age-related expectations. She shared that at 50, she never imagined she’d be shredding trails at 73. Her perspective encourages her to embrace and appreciate her current abilities while challenging societal norms about aging.
• Viewing Life as a Playground: Betty embodies the philosophy that “life is one big playground.” This playful and adventurous mindset helps her tackle the challenging trails of Vancouver’s North Shore with enthusiasm and joy, regardless of her age.

Betty’s story, captured in the Patagonia short film North Shore Betty, showcases her passion and resilience. She is a testament to the idea that you’re never too old to pursue new adventures.

Ruth Drews

Ruth took up mountain biking in her 50s and now competes in races well into her 60s. She encourages others by highlighting the importance of staying active, building strength, and forming connections through the sport​.

• Late Bloomer in Mountain Biking: Ruth discovered mountain biking later in life, drawn to it as a way to connect with her son, who was pursuing a career in MTB photography. Despite initial fears about her skills and physical ability, she embraced the sport, starting with beginner classes that built her confidence and skills.
• Advocate for Women in Cycling: Ruth actively participates in women-focused MTB clinics like the Dirt Series and Ladies AllRide. These programs emphasize skill-building and overcoming fear, and Ruth credits them for helping her improve and enjoy mountain biking as an older participant. She remains an advocate for fostering supportive communities for women of all ages in outdoor sports.
• Commitment to Outdoors and Community: Beyond riding, Ruth contributes to trail maintenance and environmental initiatives, demonstrating how giving back can strengthen community bonds and inspire others to engage with outdoor activities at any age.

Her story illustrates how passion, resilience, and a willingness to try new things can lead to personal growth and inspiration for others, regardless of age.

Patty Mooney

Patty is a long-time advocate for women in mountain biking. She actively participates in local trails and events in her 60s, sharing her passion for nature and fitness through biking​.

• Trailblazing Athlete and Filmmaker: Patty began mountain biking in 1986 and quickly became a notable figure in the sport. She has competed in challenging races for decades, such as the Sagebrush Safari, where she recently won the women’s category at age 67. Additionally, she and her husband co-produced pioneering mountain biking films like Full Cycle: A World Odyssey, documenting their explorations across nine countries in search of the world’s best trails. .
• Overcoming Physical Challenges: Despite undergoing two total knee replacements, as well as enduring significant injuries like broken bones during her adventures, Patty continues to ride and compete. Her perseverance demonstrates that passion and determination can overcome physical setbacks, making her a role model for athletes of all ages.​
• Global Adventure and Advocacy: Patty has cycled some of the world’s most iconic and challenging terrains, including the Himalayas, Costa Rica, and the Matterhorn. Her participation in events like the Himalayan Mountain Bike Rally and unique feats such as biking into a volcano highlight her adventurous spirit. Beyond biking, Patty uses her talents as a filmmaker and writer to document her journeys and advocate for the joy and freedom cycling brings.

Patty Mooney exemplifies how embracing adventure and staying committed to one’s passions can lead to a lifetime of achievement and inspiration.