The Making of a Winner - Four Days of La Ruta

December 2nd, 2011 9:07pm

For the 2011 La Ruta De Los Conquistadores Mountain Bike race, I was lucky enough to go to Costa Rica to shoot the race. Since it was a once in a lifetime opportunity I worked double duty shooting video for Primal Wear - the best riding kits on the planet and trying to squeeze in some photos.

The goal was to cover Bicycle World TV's Jeff Herrera during the four day endurance test. What I got during my trip far exceeded my expectations not only in how physically and mentally tough the race was with it's 39,000 feet of climbing, but to witness the incredible hospitality and family bond that pulled together to support Jeff in this undertaking. Jeff is a native of Costa Rica and recently moved back home with his wife Norma who was unbelievably organized and steadfast in leading the large family contingent that rotated shifts along the journey. Each person doing what they could when their schedules allowed. Some lent their houses for the traveling band of supporters, other fed the team, all wore team shirts everyday and sent their good vibes. In the end it all paid off as Jeff won the 30-39 class after being down by 25 minutes after stage two. Jeff's family support was visibly noticed by everyone and commented on by five time La Ruta legend "Lico's" manager. Jeff's victory was shared by all.

Here is what I captured in chronological order, from racer check-in in Jaco on the Pacific Ocean to the awards the ceremony in Lima on the Carribean coast. If pieces are missing, they are in video that is being edited now. If people were left out, please accept my most sincere apologies.

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