The beginning of the spring thaw is always a sign that the Rippers will soon
be upon us. The
riding season never truly comes to a halt on the North Shore; however, there
are times when even the most dedicated have to relinquish themselves to the
goodness of fresh powder that cannot be ignored. This being said in true west
coast style we have to take what the weather gods give us and enjoy the adventure. We
are resilient folk for that reason…we really don’t have much choice
if we want to play.
As far as post event festivities go we will continue in 2008 with our après
parties at Bellacandella where the food and hospitality are always first class
casual.. Prizing and images of the day will be there for you to enjoy
so be sure to join us not only for the ride but for the festivities.
Dorothy Luebke - 2007 Ripper Queen. Photo ~ Dan Barham
Dorothy Luebke is a North Shore resident who has been enjoying the trails
for five plus years with her husband, friends and now part of the Muddbunnie
Riding Club. She is known for her enthusiasm, encouraging nature and
being the biggest cheerleader out there; as well as a skilled rider. In
addition Dorothy and her husband Sven have been amazing supporters of the
NSMBA spending countless hours out on our trails keeping them in tip top
shape for all of us to enjoy.
Aimee: When were you first exposed to the North Shore Ripper event?
Dorothy: In 2006 I came out as volunteer for the 7th. I remember my
friend Helena entering for her first time and the advice passed on by her
hubby Matt was to “just follow” the ride ahead of you…seemed
simple enough.
I saw how laid back and non-competitive it was and to boot I went to the
après party and won a set of Cranks. I gave the prize away but ended
up getting it back through other means and this set the tone for my love
of the Rippers!
A: When did you first participate as a rider?
D: The next event was the Super DH and I teamed up my husband and two other
friends. The strategy was
NOT TO LET DOROTHY STOP! During this
event I felt I like I had experienced a “Eureka moment” as the
adrenalin and energy of riding with a team pushed me to ride as fast as I ever
had! The CBC time trial wasn’t really for me and I felt the Triple
Crown was perhaps too intense for me so in 2006 I just did the one but had
a blast.
Dorothy's 'Ruby Slippers' from the Ripper Super D in 07. Photo ~ Dan
Barham
A: In 2007, you not only participated in each event you also won
the illustrious distinction of Ripper Queen! What led to this progression?
D: Once I got a taste of what the Rippers were really about I saw the
event as a Sports day for Riders; a time to celebrate your love of riding! I
came out in costume for each event. This included the team Wizard of OZ theme
for the Super DH, Redneck Pride for the Seventh Secret event, Marg Delahante
from This Hour has 22 minutes for the CBC Time Trial and Team “Rack Attack” for
the Triple Crown. We were proud to be the only all female team and we finished
the whole event! We started the day with a Mimosa, had one of our teammates
boyfriends banging pots and pans beside us as we rode! It was an amazing
day…
Just riding along. Photo ~ Dan
Barham
A: So what have the Rippers helped your riding (not only skill wise)
and attitude about the sport?
D: Well I have never really been a competitive person this event is great
for those of us who just want to be involved and have a good time. I
compare it to the Running of Bulls with participation being the #1 factor. You
ride what you are comfortable on, walk what you need to but in the end I just
think sometimes we have to stop taking ourselves so seriously as riders. Lose
the bravado and just be there for the pure love of it. You meet great
like-minded people at these events as well.
Marg Warrior Princess from the CBC Ripper in 07. Photo ~ Dan
Barham
A: What are your goals for 2008?
D: I want to have another all female team for the Triple Crown with more members
than the Shuttlewhores. Female riders can be so hard on themselves and
can get intimidated but once you realize no one cares about your result you
get over that. Life is too short to not participate and challenge yourself
in your own way!
A: Are you aiming to defend your title in 2008?
D: Well I must say the costumes for these events have helped fill up
my tickle Trunk! I just want to come out and have a good time once again.
I even promised to cross the line with any female rider that is apprehensive
or nervous about participating. I just know that getting someone to the event
is the hardest step. After that the Rippers sell themselves.
Well gals, there
you have it straight from our Ripper Queen! She wants to see more of you
out there in 2008 and offers her support and encouragement as part of the
Rookies Ripper package.
Remember all funds raised by your participation go towards taking care of
your favorite North Shore trails www.nsmba.bc.ca It
is a win-win!
So all you guys and gals lets get fired up for another season of Ripper
fun…
You can register online now at karelo.com.
It is on …rain, sleet or snow!
2008 Rippers include:
Super DH May 12th
Wade’s Excellent Adventure May 24th
Triple Crown July 5th
Here are the reports from three of last year's Rippers.
Ripper 1
Ripper 2
Ripper 3
Any first timers want to step up and be Ripper Virgins this year? We
promise you won't be sacrificed. Any
questions about registration, the events or comments on this year's schedule? Bring
them forth
