The excitement is palpable as the Horseshoe Shred’HERS women’s downhill mountain biking club gears up for their season opener at Horseshoe Resort on July 4th. This weekly Thursday night program, running from 5 to 7 p.m. until the end of August, invites women of all ages and skill levels to experience the thrill of downhill mountain biking in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Manda Freyman, co-founder of the program alongside Shannon Mathieson, emphasizes creating a safe space where women can flourish in the traditionally male-dominated sport of downhill biking. The program offers free instruction and dedicates one trail per night exclusively to women, allowing them to ride without the pressure of other racers.
“We start with the easiest trails and progressively build skills, marking safe stopping points and highlighting upcoming features,” Freyman explained.
Last year, the program attracted 127 members, with an average rider age of 45. Thanks to a partnership with Horseshoe Resort, participants enjoy half-price lift tickets on Thursdays, making the sport more accessible for newcomers.
Horseshoe Resort stands out as the sole venue in the province offering chairlift-accessed downhill biking. Lift tickets are priced at $45 on weekdays and $55 on weekends, valid from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily throughout the summer.
Freyman, involved since the program’s inception during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for female riders. Collaborating closely with local rider Hannah Simms and Horseshoe Resort’s Matt Konings, Freyman aims to break down barriers and foster community within the biking park.
“Our goal is to build camaraderie among riders, making the sport less intimidating and more enjoyable for everyone,” Freyman remarked.
For Ashley Brown, owner of The Crank & Sprocket Bicycle Co. in Orillia, joining Shred’HERS two years ago was a rejuvenating experience. Initially hesitant due to her hiatus from biking after starting a family, Brown found the program’s welcoming atmosphere irresistible.
“Shred’HERS appealed to me because it promised a supportive environment for new riders, regardless of experience,” Brown shared. Now, her entire family joins her every Sunday, thanks to the program’s inclusive approach.
Beyond riding, members gather post-ride at Horseshoe Resort to socialize, with the resort offering a 20% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages for participants. Bike rentals are also available, though booking in advance is recommended.
For those interested in learning more about Horseshoe Resort or joining the Shred’HERS program, visit horseshoeresort.com or call 705-835-2790. Details about The Mountain Bike Exchange can be found at themtbexchange.com, and information about the Peace and Wheelies group is available at crankandsprocket.ca/articles/peace-and-wheelies.