To highlight some of our OBRA Members, new for 2021 we will spotlight a different OBRA member each month. For April we bring you, Brenna Wrye-Simpson from Portland, OR. Enjoy!
Name?
Brenna Wrye-Simpson
Where do you live?
I live in Portland, OR.
What team do you race for?
On the road, I race for DNA Pro Cycling Team, a women’s professional road racing program based in Salt Lake. During the cyclocross season, I race for Team S&M!
What is the first OBRA race you participated in?
2012 Barton Park Cyclocross Crusade! It was so fun and on course and off. I remember the sensations of a fast, turbulent downhill starting chute, the loud cheers and exuberant energy from the rows of team tents, the heavy breathing on the run-up with some quiet reprieve before the off-camber drop. It was all so new and overwhelming and so dang fun at once. It was a great first-time experience. It opened the door to how racing could be approachable and something I could do, versus something I saw others do but could not relate to. It also introduced me to a new host of people who became my friends. And this last part is what it took to keep me racing–I didn’t line up at a race again until I met the wonderful people of the Ironclad Cycling Team (now Rainier Beer Cycling Team). I joined the team and had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals “emphasis on fun” of road racing with a squad of other women new to the sport, surrounded by supportive senior teammates who were excited to share their love of the sport with us. It was an incredible gift!
What do you enjoy about racing in OBRA?
OBRA is an energetic, accessible, encouraging community. If you want to get involved in any aspect of racing, it’s possible to plug right in and start doing so, whether that means racing every subtype of bike racing there is, or if you want to learn how to officiate, volunteer your abilities at an event, help promote an event, join a team, start a team, join the OBRA board, or introduce a rule or topic for consideration within the community at the OBRA annual meeting. The intention behind the organization is that the sport and its constructs should and can be accessible, and choosing to get involved makes us a stronger community. I am so grateful for the care and continuing interest that has been extended to me and my development as an athlete and community member, and it means a lot to me to be able to keep paying this energy forward so others can find the success and support network they want and need, too.
What is your favorite OBRA race?
It’s impossible to pick just one! I love so many for different reasons! The Cascade Cycling Classic for its gorgeous, incredibly hard courses and diversity of competition levels (from beginner to pro!). The Franz Bakery Crit for its fun, swoopy course, and incredibly fun environment. Bridge City Cyclocross!!! For the beach, the Party Zone, the amusement park backdrop, and the vivacious energy. PIR for weeknight bike practice and speedwork. Gorge Roubaix in all its iterations for its unforgiving, beautiful courses. Tabor for the weeknight picnics and more midweek character building. And so many more. We have such a diversity of events! Thank you to the hardworking promoters who keep us moving!
What would you tell people who are thinking about racing for the first time?
If the flashy trappings, high-end gear, and bright, matchy-matchy kits are intimidating, disregard ’em and remember that everyone’s a little nervous when they’re about to do something difficult. Run whatever gear you have. Pick an event that looks intriguing and go with a friend. Share the first-time experience together! The OBRA community wants and welcomes new faces, you’ll come out of the experience with some good memories and new friends. Bring lots of snacks and water and don’t forget to keep eating and drinking 🙂
Also, on this note, experienced OBRA members, keep bringing your friends to events! It’s a lot easier to try something for the first time if you’re guided by someone who has been there before.
What new races would you like to try in the future?
Six Hours of Mt. Hood! I have yet to try racing MTB and I’d love to race this unique, often team-based event that’s well known for its great environment and fun course. It’s also a special event for my shop/employer, Sellwood Cycle Repair. We’re a sponsor and it’s a high point on our calendar every year.
