Season 4 is coming soon!
Applications open on January 31st at 10am MST!
About From the Ground Up
2024’s Event - SBT GRVL Black Course:
SBT GRVL began in 2019 as a way to show off the pristine “champagne gravel” that surrounds Steamboat, Colorado. From the beginning the event has focused on inclusivity, community, and creating a premier rider experience. SBT has 4 distances to choose from, ranging from 37 to 125 miles. From The Ground Up is about showing what is possible when you set an ambitious goal but back it up with the support and determination needed to succeed, which is why we are targeting the Black Course, the longest and most demanding of the 4. With 10,000ft of climbing over 125 miles, with steep, narrow, technical roads mixed in, it’s going to take the same all in effort and commitment as seasons past to find the finish line.
From The Ground Up started as a project intended to inspire cyclists of all ability levels to step outside of their comfort zones. Now in its 4th season, Ryan and Alexey have come to realize how important the power of community is when taking on monumental challenges. We are all capable of so much more than we know, but our true potential is only unlocked with the encouragement, support, and comradery of others.
Our overarching objective of this project is to help shorten the learning curve in cycling while helping guide riders who are new to the sport. With the help of our partners, each selected individual will receive all of the resources they need to take on this challenge.
It all starts with an application. Are you ready to take a leap? We’ve got you.
Interested in FTGU x Bentonville Camp ‘24?
- Reviews from our family -
“FTGU transformed my life as a 37-year-old mother entering the world of mountain biking. The documentary beautifully captures my journey from novice to conquering the toughest MTB race in the US. With support from coaches & teammates, I not only mastered the technicalities but discovered strength within. Reaching the summit of Columbine Mountain symbolized triumph and —it was conquering self-doubt. This isn't just about biking; it's a testament to human resilience. From the Ground Up gave me renewed self-confidence and the courage to embrace challenges head-on. Grateful for this life-changing experience and the incredible individuals who made it possible.
- Megan Mouser (S3)
FTGU season 3 was a once in a lifetime opportunity and experience. It wasn’t just Leadville or mountain biking, it was the process and, more importantly, the people. Ryan and Alexey, and their team, have created a family of riders who will always have this amazing shared experience. On the personal side, taking on this challenge allowed me to tap into my competitive beast that was in hibernation for a little while. On the top of the list, each rider was given a platform where their perseverance and determination could have a ripple effect, letting anyone doubting their abilities know conquering something unimaginable is possible.
- Kawika Mitchell (S3)
FTGU is for those who won’t stop. Those who are willing to dive into the deepest darkest parts of themselves and find the light to lead them. Those who sneak smiles through the grit. I found that long before crossing the finish line of Leadville with the help of my FTGU community and friends. Best experience (and toughest) of my life!
- Brindley Faile (S3)
The project gave me a lot more than I could have ever asked for - a newfound love for the outdoors, the confidence to chase seemingly impossible goals, and a chance to be a part of a great community on and off the bike.
- Mohnish Chakravarti (S3)
“This project is lifechanging, so fun, gets you out of your comfort zone, it’s hard, but its good. The ripple effect it has had on my life is so worth it. It builds character, it allows me to say yes to other things that I typically would intimidated by and it has just given me confidence to embrace more fun in life. I will forever value this project. If you are scared to apply, just do it. Have fun with it and say hell yes to your life! This is a way to begin again.”
- Rachel Crain (S2)
“One thing that really surprised me about this project is the community that you become a part of. The amount of people supporting you throughout this project and beyond is amazing. They all want you to succeed, and you can feel that.”
- Johanna Appel (S2)
“I have been places I did not know existed in myself, if you had told me in early March that I would be sitting here in Leadville, CO in August and that I would have even attempted any kind of ride in these mountains, I would have told you, you were crazy. I needed to establish within myself that I could do it”
- Shawna Anderson (S1)
“This project has been more than life changing, I have learned a lot about myself. I have never felt so empowered. Through this bike I have gained so much freedom in my life. All of the struggles that came about throughout this journey have made me more mentally tough and I feel like I have become a better version of myself.”
- Roberta Nuñez (S1)
I am in awe that I did what I did. I still remember the first day that Ryan and Alexey came over and they handed me a pair of bike shorts - and I didn’t know which was the front or the back. In such a short time, to be at such a humbling race, good on me, but more over good on them for trusting me and putting that effort into getting me ready.
- Enzo Moscarella (S1 + S2)