Will Benzer becomes youngest rider to complete annual 40-mile Motherlode Epic
Many adults who take on the grueling Motherlode Epic mountain bike race spend months training to endure its relentless climbs, rugged terrain, and sweltering heat. But this year, a local 8-year-old wasn’t just along for the ride—he made history.
Will Benzer, a third grader with a passion for pedals and perseverance beyond his years, became the youngest rider ever to complete the full 40-mile Motherlode Epic course. The demanding point-to-point race begins at Magnolia Ranch and winds through some of the most scenic, yet punishing single track in El Dorado County before finishing in Historic Folsom. For Will, it was a personal goal, shaped by countless hours of riding and encouragement from his family.
“I am excited to be able to say that I did it,” Will said. “Most people didn’t think it was possible.”
The Motherlode Epic, founded in 2017 and organized by Clipped In For Life of Folsom, is widely recognized as one of Northern California’s premier mountain bike events. It spans five timed stages across 32 miles of rugged trail, packed into a 40-mile overall journey that includes more than 4,000 feet of elevation gain and a mid-race boat transfer across Folsom Lake. With only 300 riders accepted each year, the event is both exclusive and physically demanding.
Will joined the lineup not as part of a relay or youth team—but as a solo rider determined to complete the entire course. His father, Brett Benzer, also entered the race, riding beside Will throughout the day and offering support as they shared the challenge together.
“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.”
Will approached the race with a strategy built around feed zones. He stayed focused by targeting each one as a mental checkpoint, and found renewed energy riding alongside dozens of more experienced competitors.
“Riding with so many other riders gave me energy and motivation to keep up the pace,” he said. “It was longer than I expected, and the heat made it even harder. I was determined to finish.”
Will’s passion for biking began early. He has been riding since he could walk, often trying to keep up with older kids in the neighborhood or tagging along on his father’s trail rides. His love for the sport deepened when he discovered the Folsom Grom Series, a local youth cycling league hosted by Clipped In For Life, where he found community, competition, and motivation.
He first heard about the Motherlode Epic from older Grom riders who had completed portions of the course in relay-style pairings with parents. Will decided he wanted to attempt the full ride on his own. The race’s opening trails at Magnolia and Cronan Ranch are part of his weekly routine, making the idea feel familiar, even if the full challenge remained daunting.
“Our local trails are part of the race,” Brett said. “That made it feel more attainable and helped him lock in on the goal.”
The Benzer family lives on a small farm in Cool, California, where trail access is abundant. Brett and Kristy Benzer are both active endurance athletes, participating in ultramarathons, trail races and equestrian events. Will’s older sister Olivia also shares in the family’s outdoor lifestyle. Will’s training was grounded in the same principles his parents have followed for years: consistency, good nutrition, and finding joy in the journey.
This summer, Will plans to continue racing in the NorCal Crusher Cup Series at Lake Sonoma and the CA Dirt Series in Nevada City. He’ll return to the Folsom Grom Series in the fall.
At just 8 years old, Will Benzer has already proven that age is no barrier when grit, preparation, and a love for the trail come together. As he looks ahead, his story is sure to start inspiring others in the region’s vibrant cycling community.
Clipped In For Life, the organization behind the Motherlode Epic and the Folsom Grom Series, is dedicated to building lifelong connections to cycling that strengthen both individuals and communities. Through school-based, after-school, and break-time youth cycling programs, they introduce kids to the joy and adventure of biking while instilling confidence, perseverance, and independence.
Their mission goes far beyond races. Clipped In For Life creates events that are welcoming to all levels and ages, offering a supportive environment where riders can pursue personal achievement and connection. Proceeds from their events help sustain these impactful youth programs, ensuring kids like Will have access to cycling as a source of purpose, perspective, and belonging.
For more on the Motherlode Epic and Clipped In For Life’s programs, visit www.clippedinforlife.org
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