Lissa Muhammad is a mother of five, and her cycling passion lies in crit racing and gravel grinding. She started riding 15 years ago but had to put the bike aside with life challenges, including a demanding work commute. Then, with COVID and a new reality of telecommuting, Lissa rediscovered the bike, and her daily walks turned into bike rides. The wind against her face brought back a childlike exhilaration, and since that moment, she hasn’t set her bike down. 

With its reputation for unforeseen obstacles and setbacks, UNBOUND evoked a sense of trepidation within me as I arrived in Emporia last year. It was only my second gravel century in as many years, and I knew the challenges that lay ahead. As anticipated, the rain became my companion for 35 miles, with intermittent showers testing my resilience. In these gravel events, my aim is to give my absolute best. The race becomes a personal battle against both myself and the elements. Opting for longer courses, I push myself to explore the diverse terrain and embrace the full experience it offers.
 

Here are five things I learned at my first UNBOUND 100

Make sure to download the course onto your head unit before starting. Go out the day before and practice using the navigation settings to ensure everything is working correctly and you can see the route clearly. 

I had to rely on my instincts during a brief section of UNBOUND last year, and I was fortunate that it worked out. However, it's important not to depend solely on intuition and instead prioritize having the course downloaded and easily accessible for a smoother and more reliable experience.

Gathering all the necessary information about the course, including the location and quantity of aid stations, is advantageous when it comes to planning and packing appropriately. In the case of UNBOUND 100, where there was only one water station and checkpoint available, I needed to pack wisely for the entire ride. 
 

To ensure proper hydration, I carried two 24-ounce water bottles filled with electrolyte-infused hydration and a 2-liter Camelback containing plain water. With careful planning, I replenished my bottles and pack at the water oasis and once more at the 64-mile checkpoint, guaranteeing that I sustained optimal hydration throughout the course.

I filled my frame bag with various provisions to sustain my energy levels. Fresh fruit, trail mix, energy bars, and sport fuel were carefully chosen to provide a diverse range of nutrients and avoid any worries about running out during the ride. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my well-prepared nutrition not only sustained me but also aided me in achieving a personal record for a gravel century, free from the worry of experiencing an energy crash.

UNBOUND fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among participants. Don't be afraid to seek guidance and learn from experienced riders. Throughout the weekend, I engaged with professional racers, amateurs, and endurance enthusiasts in the community, asked questions, and gathered insights from those who had tackled the event before. 

Other riders’ advice and wisdom can help to navigate the challenges and make informed decisions during the race. We can all support and encourage one another, whether offering help with mechanical issues, sharing resources, or simply providing emotional support during challenging moments. UNBOUND highlights the power of a supportive community and the bonds that form through shared experiences.

Participating in such a demanding event pushed me beyond my comfort zones. I discovered new strengths, uncovered untapped potential, and often surprised myself with every obstacle I successfully overcame. UNBOUND can be a transformative journey of self-discovery, revealing personal limits and inspiring individuals to reach new heights.

Give careful thought to packing extra clothes for race day. The ever-changing weather conditions can significantly impact your comfort and overall enjoyment during the ride. You have two options: carrying extra clothing on your bike or storing them at checkpoints along the route. 
 

Carrying a lightweight jacket ensured that I could adapt swiftly to sudden weather changes. On the other hand, packing extra clothes at the checkpoint can reduce your bike load and offers strategic access to additional layers when needed. Regardless of your choice, a lightweight jacket is an indispensable item that provides versatility and protection against wind, rain, or temperature drops. 

Remember, UNBOUND is not just about conquering the miles but also about savoring the entire experience. By packing extra clothes and being prepared for changing weather conditions, you'll be able to immerse yourself fully in the journey and relish every moment of this extraordinary adventure.
 

At the UNBOUND Camp earlier this year, I had multiple conversations with fellow campers about the determination to surpass past results or to improve on their previous experiences. I share the same sentiment and am looking forward to another go at the UNBOUND 100.