Motherlode Epic’s youngest finisher honored by Congressman Kevin Kiley in Historic Folsom ceremony
Just weeks after pedaling his way into the history books, 8-year-old Will Benzer received a new accolade Wednesday afternoon — this time from the halls of Congress. Standing on the historic footbridge in Historic Folsom, Benzer was presented with an official Congressional Certificate of Recognition from U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley for becoming the youngest rider ever to complete the grueling 40-mile Motherlode Epic mountain bike race.
The ceremony drew Benzer’s family, supporters from Clipped In For Life — the Folsom nonprofit that organizes the annual race — and Congressman Kiley, who learned of the youngster’s achievement through recent coverage in Folsom Times. Addressing Benzer as he handed him the certificate, Kiley praised the young cyclist’s determination and the inspiration he brings to the community.
“So, you’re breaking all kinds of records,” Kiley told Benzer. “When we heard about what Will had accomplished, I said, ‘Gosh, we have to go out and meet this biker, hear his story, and provide recognition on behalf of the community.’ That’s what we’re doing here today. I am just amazed by what you’ve been able to accomplish.
“I think it’s really inspiring,” Kiley continued. “It’s clear you have a very, very bright future ahead of you, Will, and I look forward to following your next exploit. So, it is my honor today, on behalf of California’s Third Congressional District, to present you with this certificate.
Kiley went on to read the verbiage from the award, “I present this to Will Benzer, in honor of being the youngest rider to complete the Motherlode Epic mountain bike race. California’s Third District commends Will Benzer for his dedication, perseverance, and commitment to training for this epic achievement. Congratulations!”
The Congressman noted that Benzer is likely the youngest recipient he has ever recognized as well. “It’s a very special recognition. In addition to being the youngest rider to complete the Motherlode Epic, you’ve inspired a lot of people here today, and I’m proud to be able to share in recognizing that.”
Looking back on Will’s ride on the Epic
Many seasoned adults who take on the Motherlode Epic train for months to tackle its relentless climbs, rugged singletrack, and sweltering summer heat. This year, Benzer — a third grader with a passion for two wheels — wasn’t just along for the ride. He completed every mile of the point-to-point course, which begins at Magnolia Ranch and winds through some of the most scenic yet punishing terrain in El Dorado County before finishing in Historic Folsom.
Folsom Times photos by Adam Frick.
The Motherlode Epic, founded in 2017, is widely regarded as one of Northern California’s premier mountain bike events. It spans five timed stages over 32 miles of rugged trail — part of a 40-mile journey that packs in more than 4,000 feet of climbing and even a mid-race boat transfer across Folsom Lake. Only 300 riders are accepted each year, making the event as exclusive as it is demanding.
Benzer joined the field not as part of a youth relay team but as a solo rider, determined to finish the full course. His father, Brett Benzer, rode alongside him the entire way, offering encouragement and pacing support.
“We were able to ride the whole thing together and share the experience and make memories,” Brett said. “It was surprisingly smooth. No mechanicals, steady pace, and he handled the heat well thanks to ice bandanas and frozen water bottles. The toughest stretch came around mile 24—it was hot, unfamiliar, and difficult to get out of the sun quickly. But that made reaching the boat crossing even more rewarding.”
Benzer approached the race with a simple but effective strategy: focus on reaching each feed zone as a mental checkpoint, draw energy from the camaraderie of other riders, and never let up.
“Riding with so many other riders gave me energy and motivation to keep up the pace,” Will said after completing the ride. “It was longer than I expected, and the heat made it even harder. I was determined to finish.”
A love for cycling has been part of Benzer’s life since he could walk. He first started pedaling to keep up with older neighborhood kids, later tagging along on his father’s trail rides. His competitive spark grew through the Folsom Grom Series, a local youth cycling league hosted by Clipped In For Life, where he found both community and inspiration.
He first heard about the Motherlode Epic from older Grom Series riders who had completed portions of the course in relay-style pairings with parents. Determined to go the distance himself, Benzer found confidence in the fact that the race’s opening trails at Magnolia and Cronan Ranch were already part of his weekly routine.
The Benzer family lives on a small farm in Cool, California, where access to trails is abundant. Both Brett and his wife Kristy are endurance athletes, competing in ultramarathons, trail races, and equestrian events. Will’s older sister, Olivia, is also active in the family’s outdoor pursuits. The family’s approach to training blends consistency, proper nutrition, and, above all, enjoyment of the journey.
Benzer isn’t slowing down anytime soon. This summer, he plans to compete in the NorCal Crusher Cup Series at Lake Sonoma and the CA Dirt Series in Nevada City, before returning to the Folsom Grom Series in the fall.
Clipped In For Life — the nonprofit behind the Motherlode Epic — is dedicated to building lifelong connections to cycling through school-based, after-school, and youth programs. Their events are designed to be welcoming for all ages and skill levels, with proceeds helping sustain programs that instill confidence, perseverance, and independence in young riders.
For Benzer, Wednesday’s recognition from Congressman Kiley was more than an award — it was a moment to reflect on what he has accomplished and to inspire others. His story now stands as proof that age is no barrier when preparation, determination, and a love for the trail come together.
For more on the Motherlode Epic and Clipped In For Life’s programs, visit www.clippedinforlife.org.
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