Ally Stacher climbing during the NVGP (photo by Paul Forsythe)

Over 185 women lined up for the five-day celebration of bicycling in the State of Minnesota. The Nature Valley Grand Prix brings out top women racers from all across the world. Most importantly, it is an American celebration for women racers to showcase their potential.

The stage race premise is rather obvious, but there are many other races within the race. In addition to the overall event awards, there are Queen of the Hill, Sprint, Race Leader, and Best Young Rider honors. This year 28 women lined up in hopes of finishing high up in the classification ranks and looking for top brass recognition within the Young Rider ranks.

Ally Stacher, had mixed feelings entering the event however, stating that she was hoping for a high GC placement, which would award her with a high placement in the Young Riders contest as well. She is pleased with a top 5 Best Young Rider placement, but like a typical bike racer, it only makes her want more and better results.

Ally notes that the Nature Valley Grand Prix is a great race. All the volunteer help from the community made it such a success and she looks forward to doing it next year. She stated that, “Most of all riding with and for Team Kenda is such a pleasure and that made Nature Valley that much better. The women are wonderful, hard working, riders that make bike racing enjoyable.