OUR EPIC GUIDES
“Our guides were very accomplished athletes who were knowledgeable about biking and the area but also managed to be down to earth and lots of fun.”
Our caring epic cycling guides make our adventures truly Epic. They possess the skills necessary to coordinate the many details of each ride, but above all else, they each have a genuine desire to care for your comfort and enjoyment. Our guides are selected and trained for unparalleled personal service. Their backgrounds vary, but all have a love for the outdoors and a desire to help people make the most of their vacation. Our ride leaders have extensive knowledge of Penticton and the beautiful Okanagan we travel through.
Yvonne Timewell
Yvonne just placed 1st in her age group at the world triathlon in Kona!
I am a mom, respiratory therapist, dog lover, and sports enthusiast. I enjoy life to the fullest in beautiful sunny Penticton from XC skiing in the winter, to cycling and swimming in the summer.
I love Rose wine from Hillside winery, my favorite ride is to the tunnel in Naramata and I would love to show you the way.
My accomplishments: I was selected for the Specialized Zwift Academy Triathlon team in 2019 along with 7 other athletes from around the world. My goal of being on the podium at the Ironman World Championships was successful and I placed 2nd in 2018 and 3rd in 2019. I also hold the record in the bike course for the Ultraman Canada Championships.
Michelle Reaume
As a child, I spent most of my summers in Vancouver and Penticton, B.C. dabbling in all kinds of sports from slalom water skiing to premier soccer. I discovered a sport that suited my love for athletics and I somehow ended up racing 25 Ironmans including Hawaii which still holds many fond memories. Even before competing in Ironmans and trail running events, I was drawn to it in high school by competing in the Hepthalon (7 events). The appeal for multi-sports grew from there.
I continue to compete and participate in epic hiking and cycling adventures but my love for road cycling remains on top. It brings me to places that cars never see. It has allowed me to travel to exotic places around the world and explore areas where there is no cell service! I work full-time for the world’s largest sports marketing company and disconnecting every once in a while is a big part of why I cycle. I have been a certified fitness instructor part-time for over 25 years and I absolutely LOVE my Monday night cycle class. It brings me great pleasure to motivate, inspire, and execute a safe and effective cycling workout. Life is about balance and also about creating memories and experiences. I am honoured to join Epic Cycling Adventures as a ride leader.
“Life is a sport, make it count…Just Do It.”
Ann Barnes
I got my first two wheeler at 6 years old – a shiny peacock blue “CCM” with streamers on the handle bars. Back in the day my brothers and I would explore the UBC Endowment land trails for hours, returning home tired and dusty.
Years later, I am STILL riding nice shiny bikes and live by Rule – the correct number of bikes to have is N+1 (I have an addiction for nice bikes).
With a post secondary degree in Physical Education and a successful age group triathlon career, it seems I have come full circle as I still prefer to get dirty, stay on the roads less travelled, and push the limits of my comfort zone by taking on challenges that thrill me.
My favourite event – the Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder (5 day point to point stage race) is “camp out” for big kids including crazy camping games, great meals and there MAY have been some whiskey drinking!
Whether it be on our quiet Okanagan Valley roads or trails, let’s go ride bikes, take in the views, and have some fun.
Shane Reaume
I’ve been an avid cyclist since 1994. I have raced multiple events from road cycling, time trials, crits, cross country mountain bike, cyclocross, fondos and triathlons.
I have completed 15 Ironman’s, with a personal best of 10:16. I love trail and road running. I will soon be an ACE certified spin instructor.
I am an F2C Nutrition brand ambassador and a Crossroads Racing team member.
“Saddle up buttercup, we ride for beer, live to ride and ride to eat.”
Bert Sandie
Bert is an avid cyclist and runner who resides part-time in Penticton.
He knows all of the back roads, as he has been cycling in this area for more than 20 years. Bert puts in over 10,000 km a year, but it’s not all about hardcore cycling; he really enjoys showing others the hidden routes.
He’s a Masters bicycle racer, and former national elite-level duathlete and runner. He is certified as a Level 2 NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program) under Canada’s Coaching Association.
“I know it’s the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. I anticipate your needs before you ask!”
Malcolm Davidson
I have recently moved to Penticton to enjoy cycling the vineyards and sipping wine from the abundant wineries in the area. I am the perfect guide to show you a good time and tell you about the area while enjoying your tour in the sunshine and vineyards.
My accomplishments: I have raced many Gran Fondos and cycled in Europe and Asia. I am an accomplished cyclist; however, I am happy just to relax and enjoy a ride with no pressure. If you prefer gravel cycling on an E-bike, mountain bike or road cycling I am the guide for you.
Carrie Allen
I am Carrie and live to skate ski, mountain bike, road cycle and hike as well as I love CrossFit. I work as a nurse and cannabis consultant. I have lived many years in the south Okanagan and know every back road and trail in the area as I also love mountain biking. When I’m not working, I’m outdoors doing something fun so why not show everyone else what this area has to offer!
I would love to show you the way and make sure you have a great day in this amazing valley and mountains!
My accomplishments: I am not a race competitor but love an athletic challenge. I train like an athlete with the goal of strength in body, mind and spirt. I am always up for an adventure if it includes a route that is new, has a stellar view and with an Epic crew!
Rob Herron
I’ve been an avid cyclist most of my life and have been visiting the Okanagan over the past several decades to enjoy some of the best cycling anywhere in North America. I now ride with the “Java Junkies” and when asked to escort tours I jumped at the opportunity to show like minded enthusiasts the vistas, vineyards and valley.
Accomplishments: During the 90’s, I rode the Seattle to Portland ride (320 km) in one day, four times. At that time, Ironman Canada was also being run in Penticton. I caught the bug and signed up in 97. I have since competed in 6 Ironman competitions in Penticton, Arizona and Idaho. I have also completed several Gran Fondos, Half-Ironmans and Duathlons.
Drew Mitchell
Drew is the Senior Director of Physical Literacy for the Sport for Life Society. Drew has been involved in sport and fitness for over 40 years as an athlete, coach, administrator, volunteer, developer and manager and is the perfect person to showcase the beautiful Okanagan trails and wineries while giving you some helpful tips along the way!