August 13, 2026
Host
Have you heard about the Cadence Collective Classic? It's a 1,400-kilometer, women-only ultra-endurance race in Southern California this September. Frankly, it's the scariest thing in sports news right now. I'm Alex, your host, and today we're diving into what makes this event so terrifying—and so thrilling. Joining me is Maya, an expert on the ultra-cycling scene.
Guest
Yeah, it's absolutely mind-blowing. A 1400k race for women only, with a brevet option for those just wanting completion credit. The time limit is just 105 hours. It’s, uh, it’s not for the faint of heart. And the lineup? It’s like a who's who of ultra-cycling. Meagan Killinen, Jana Kesselhaur, Fiona Kolberg, Rinko Soma... They're all showing up.
Host
Exactly. The Cadence Collective started as a way to connect women over 45 in SoCal, but now it's a global movement. These riders dominate the ultra circuit. And Lifetime TV is producing a documentary? That's huge.
Guest
Oh, definitely. Lifetime is the platinum sponsor, so they'll be capturing all the heartfelt personal stories against this brutal backdrop. Four loops, a cloverleaf format, all starting and ending at Bonelli Bluffs. You get the San Bernardino National Forest, high desert, mountains, coast—everything. It’s a real test.
Host
But let's talk about the scariness. 1400k is insane. I mean, that's like riding from LA to Portland, but with, what, 50,000 feet of climbing? The sleep deprivation alone... Are we sure this is safe?
Guest
That's a fair point. Ultra-racing always carries risk. But the riders have qualified on a series of 200k to 600k events and the organizers have that central hub at Bonelli Bluffs, where riders can rest, get meals, and access drop bags. Plus, the cloverleaf design means support is never too far away. It's as safe as a race of this magnitude can be.
Host
I see. But still, a 105-hour time limit leaves zero room for error. You're essentially riding almost four days straight, maybe catnapping at the hub. It's audacious.
Guest
Absolutely, that's the appeal. These women are pioneers. The collective originally targeted the 45+ crowd, but now it's attracting younger riders too. It's about pushing boundaries, proving what's possible.
Host
And the international flavor—teams from France, Germany, Spain, South Korea. This isn't just a big race; it's a summit. Like, a gathering of the finest endurance athletes on the planet.
Guest
Right. I mean, you've got Meagan Killinen, who shattered the Tour Divide record. Then Jana Kesselhaur, a 24-hour TT world champion and TCR winner. These riders are legends. Seeing them all together, racing each other? It's going to be electric.
Host
I'll be glued to the dot-watcher, for sure. The documentary will probably highlight the personal battles—the mental game. How do you even prepare for 1400k without sleep? It's mind-boggling.
Guest
Oh, it's all mental. Physical training is crucial, but at that distance, your mind can break. The cloverleaf might actually help psychologically—you're never far from the start, you get to see the hub repeatedly. It might make the distance feel a bit more manageable.
Host
Hmm, but I'd argue it could also be demoralizing, constantly passing the same point, knowing there's another loop to go. Sort of like a hamster wheel.
Guest
That's a good point, actually. Some riders might hate the repetition. But the variety of terrain across loops—climbing in San Bernardino, coastal stretches—keeps it interesting. It's not just the same scenery. I think that's the saving grace.
Host
Before we go, I have to ask about the sponsors. Campagnolo, Pearl Izumi, Muc-Off, Continental—these are top-tier brands. What does that say about the event's credibility?
Guest
It's massive validation. Campagnolo providing groupsets, Pearl Izumi kits, Muc-Off keeping bikes clean—these are giants in cycling. It shows the industry is taking women's ultra seriously. And Lifetime TV is the cherry on top.
Host
And the documentary will probably show the emotional side—sleep deprivation, hallucinations maybe. Are there any stories you've heard about previous Cadence events?
Guest
Actually, yeah. There was a rider last year who, uh, hallucinated a pizza delivery at mile 500. But she still finished. The mental resilience is incredible. That's the kind of story Lifetime will capture.
Host
Hallucinated pizza? That's both scary and hilarious. It really underscores how the mind plays tricks on you after days without sleep.
Guest
Exactly. And that's what makes the sport so compelling. It's not just physical; it's a journey into your own psyche. And having a hub to return to might help stave off the worst of it.
Host
And the event is September 23rd, right? It's just weeks away. How do riders even prepare for a distance like this? I mean, is there a taper?
Guest
Honestly, there's not a traditional taper. Most riders do one last long ride to keep the legs sharp, you know, but it's ninety percent mental prep. They're visualizing the loops, planning sleep strategies. It’s about staying calm.
Host
Anyway, this is a monumental event for women's cycling. It's scary, it's inspiring, and I can't wait to follow along. For anyone listening, mark your calendars for September 23rd. This is going to be epic.
Guest
Totally. And if you're a cyclist, maybe consider the brevet next year. Even finishing under the 105-hour cap is a dream. Until then, let's watch these incredible athletes redefine what's possible.
Host
Thanks for joining me. And to our listeners, stay safe out there, and maybe don't try this at home. Goodbye!