I thought to myself, Hmm..
It was just the right size for a single checked bag.
The San Luis Obispo Airport is the quickest way to fly to Tepe and Tacos.
The airport is about an hour away from the venue and has a rental car lot.
You wind in around the San Rafael Mountains, over massive bridges that span dry Jurassic-aged riverbeds.
As far as race infrastructure goes, there were port-o-lets, dumpsters, and RV parking.
Cell service was only available at the top of the racetrack.
Corner Marshalls were set up all up and down the track.
The course crew was composed of world champions and gnarly locals alike.
One Ride-or-Die rider explained the experience to me as, Its like a family reunion.
(Were all with you too, Sean!)
There was lots of love from the ladies, but nothing compares to homie love.
Tacos are bomb, and the scenery is great.
He described his experience as, I have a concussion right now, so Im just chillin.
They dont call me long-legged Lari for nothing!
They were all okay, but man, it was the crash of the weekend.
It is a microculture where people stick around for each other.
Perhaps Ryan was onto something?
Maybe Tepe is less about Olympic capabilities and thrill-seeking and more about feeling a sense of belonging.
Rough-tough lifestyles can sometimes feel odd and lonely, after all.
Semifinals were just getting started, and the athletes were starting to look super Alpha.
In the Women’s heat, Ashley Winecoffs exit speed was queen.
Everyone had been keeping an eye on Chase Hiller, the guy that won open class.
Ultimately, he won the most competitive class at Tepe 2022, Mens Standup.
Ashley Winecoff celebrated by driving up to the top and calling her mom.
Ryan Farmer, who won Mens Luge, came back to party with the Freeride Flyer staff.
Sabrina Sparklezzss, who won Womens Luge, fanned herself with her prize money.
Tepe was a rip and we hope to see you there next year!
