Photograph a Cycling Stage Race In the Eastern Sierra September 24-25

Get two days to shoot 400 or so extremely fit cyclists on the Everest Challenge 2-day stage race, September 24-25 in Bishop, California— between Yosemite and the White Mountains of California.

The Everest Challenge is the hardest two day stage race on the USA Cycling calendar. Each day features three monumental climbs, with a total elevation gain of 29,035 feet in 206 miles.

Make it a trip— shoot the race, and also shoot the beautiful scenery on days before or after the race and/or join me on a photo tour prior to the race. Unlike extremely crowded events such as the Tour de France, there are scarcely any spectators at EC. So unobstructed photography is possible. Also plan on visiting the Mountain Light photography gallery in Bishop, CA.

The Everest Challenge includes six major ascents over two days, offering a variety of angles for a good shot. Named for the total vertical ascent of over 29,000 feet, it’s an extreme race, sort of like a double Death Ride. None of the climbs are easy, with five of six climbs rated “HC” or beyond a numerical rating of Cat 1/2/3/4.

The trick is recovering from the arduous first day so as to complete the second day— there can be many DNFs as a result (did not finish). Heat and dehydration are the major issues.

Note: do not plan on lots of back and forth driving during the race, as this becomes a safety issue that will be frowned upon. Scout locations in advance.

I’ll be participating riding my silver Trek Madone 6.9 SSL road bike.