GABBY TRAXLER
When things get really difficult and it feels impossible to keep pushing, I count to 10 seconds. I can almost forget the pain, I'm just focused on getting through those 10 seconds.
Gabby Traxler is a professional gravel cyclist competing at the highest level on the North American circuit. Driven by mental resilience and relentless preparation, she approaches every race with a clear strategy and an unshakeable focus on her own performance. We caught up with her at Sea Otter Classic, one of the most iconic cycling festivals in the world, as she geared up for race day.
A CONVERSATION WITH GABBY
It's a really important race for me. I want to get back into North American racing, and Sea Otter is the perfect place to test myself against the top riders on the continent. It's also a festival: you get to meet a lot of people, soak in the energy. It can feel a bit overwhelming, but overall it's really good.
The mental side is often more important than the physical for me. I use meditation, visualization, and positive self-talk. I also lean on my routine (my notes, my checklist.) When I know I'm prepared, a lot of the nerves just disappear. The biggest thing is staying mentally sharp and not getting overwhelmed by the competition or who's on the start line. Just focus on myself and have confidence in what I can do.
I used to take a caffeine gel 10–15 minutes before the start, and it was making me really jittery, I even got cramps. So I changed my approach. At my last race, I took a GURU 50 minutes before the start and felt incredible. No cramping, just clean energy. That's my new pre-race protocol for gravel racing going forward.
A few things I never leave without: oats, apples, peanut butter, and bananas. These foods make me feel good on the road. I also have my lucky charms. I have a bag with a charm from a temple in Japan, a maple leaf pin from my grandma, and a couple of saints. These bring me luck and I can't ride without them.
