HOW HELENA GILBERT-SNYDER’S MENTORSHIP PROGRAM IS EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN

Photo Credit: Brian Tucker

BY LIZ DONAHEY

The Low Gap Race is a transformative event for young women, allowing them to challenge limits and grow as confident riders. This year, U19 participants from Monarch Racing’s mentorship program tackled a rugged 49-mile course, emerging as empowered athletes prepared for challenges on and off the bike.

THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP

Helena Gilbert-Snyder, founder of Monarch Racing, sees racing as a tool for building life skills, not just athletic ability. “I don’t care if these riders become lifelong cyclists,” she says. “What’s more important is what they take away from this experience and apply to their future careers, relationships, and personal growth.” At Low Gap, Helena’s mentorship program paired younger riders with experienced athletes, creating an invaluable support system. One standout moment was witnessing 15-year-old Kate, a first-time racer, exude both excitement and quiet confidence at the start line. Her ability to remain composed in such an intense setting is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in building mental resilience alongside physical endurance.

Helena Gilbert-Snyder and Kalu Caldas. Photo Credit: Brian Tucker

“I WANT THESE GIRLS TO KNOW THEY ARE A THREAT ON AND OFF THE RACECOURSE,” SHE SAYS. “NOT IN AN AGGRESSIVE WAY, BUT IN A WAY THAT DEMANDS RESPECT.” — HELENA GILBERT-SNYDER, FOUNDER, MONARCH RACING

BREAKING BARRIERS & REDEFINING COMPETITION

For Helena, the goal isn’t just participation— it’s teaching girls to compete with confidence. She challenges the traditional mindset that often tells women, it’s okay just to be here; just have fun; don’t push too hard. In contrast, boys are encouraged to be competitive, to push their limits, and to handle failure as part of the process. “I want these girls to know they are a threat on and off the racecourse,” she says. “Not in an aggressive way, but in a way that demands respect.” This mentality shift is critical. Many of the Monarch Racing riders are learning to embrace their own power—to race hard, challenge norms, and not apologize for being strong. It’s a mindset that extends far beyond mountain biking, preparing them for the realities of professional and personal life where they will inevitably encounter challenges and obstacles.

From Mentee to Pro: Alex Tripcevich’s Story One remarkable success story from the program is Alex Tripcevich, a former mentee who graduated to the Pro Women’s category at just 16 years old. After winning the U19 division for the past two years, she took on an even bigger challenge at Low Gap 2025, finishing 5th among the pro women. “Alex’s journey proves that with the right support and mindset, young riders can transition from beginners to elite competitors,” Helena notes.

Teaching More Than Racing—Teaching Resilience. Beyond the podium, Low Gap provides an opportunity for young women to face their fears, overcome self-doubt, and develop grit—a skill that extends far beyond cycling. “There are always going to be challenges in life,” Helena says. “By doing something that scares you, like taking on a grueling race, you prove to yourself that you can handle tough situations. That’s the lesson I want them to take with them.”

The transformation isn’t just physical—it’s deeply psychological. One rider reflected on how her first Low Gap experience was the hardest thing she’d ever done, but crossing the finish line left her feeling invincible. That’s the magic of this mentorship program: it builds courage, self-reliance, and the ability to take on life’s toughest climbs.

Photo Credit: Brian Tucker

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MONARCH RACING?

With Low Gap behind them, the Monarch Racing Development Team is preparing for a packed season of events, from local road races in January and February to major competitions like the Valley of the Sun Stage Race in Phoenix and the Redlands Classic in April. But the true impact of the team extends beyond the race calendar. Every rider is required to give back—whether through mentoring younger athletes, hosting clinics, or leading community rides. As Helena puts it, “There’s no such thing as a free ride. If the community is supporting you, you have a responsibility to give back.” Final Thoughts: The Other Side of Fear Racing at Low Gap is an initiation of sorts—a test of not just strength, but mental toughness. Helena believes that once young riders face their fears on the bike, they gain the confidence to tackle anything. “You do one scary thing, and then realize it wasn’t as bad as you thought. That’s how you build confidence—to face even scarier things and keep growing.” The 2025 Low Gap Race was a launchpad for the next generation of fearless female riders. Thanks to Monarch Racing’s mentorship program, young women are learning to own their power, redefine competition, and challenge the status quo—one race at a time.