Meet Lisa Barnes

Puerto Vallarta, Edinburgh, London, Dublin… no we’re not picking random locations off the world map, or planning our next vacation, these are places that Lisa has ridden! Born and raised in Cranbrook, she’s settled back in her hometown and has quite the extensive racing career. Volunteering in the cycling world since 2016 with Wild Horse Cyclings Club, she’s not new to riding!She loves the feeling of conquering a climb, taking a deep breath, and then annihilating the descent. With a goal of creating and fostering a love of mountain biking in her students, Lisa is a fun-filled coach ready to lead the way for her students!

When did you first start riding and how did you get into it?

I started road riding 4 years ago and loved the fitness it gave me. However, I found there were WAY more people who wanted to mountain bike then road ride. So I got a used bike and hit the trails and met some really awesome individuals who helped me develop as a rider and a human.

If you were to describe your riding style in one word, what would it be? Overly vocal

Who was/is your inspiration and why?

Women who put themselves out there to try new things! I am always blown away with the strong women out there who support each other. I am so humbled to be part of helping others find their inner badass.

What’s the best thing about mountain biking for you?

The incredible feeling when you conquer a climb and have a moment to take in the views, a deep breath of fresh air, and then annihilate the descent.

What’s unique about your coaching style? Being a new coach I remember like it was yesterday what it was like to just sit on my saddle, pedal, and hope everything goes well. I also know what a big difference a little skill development makes. I can relate and really care about helping others understand the basics to really feel comfortable and improve.

What are you riding right now? Thunderbolt C90

Favourite trail? “The Coffee Run – Double Shot, Espresso, Coffee Grinder” in the Cranbrook Community Forest

Favourite after ride drink? Fernie Project 9 Pilsner, or whatever is handed to me.

What do you want your students to gain from your coaching/teaching? I hope I can help create a love for a sport of mountain biking! Making ladies feel comfortable to hit the trails with an understanding whys and the hows to develop a more confident rider

What has been the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given or received in mountain biking or any other sport? Look where you want to go not at what your trying to avoid… can be applied on the trails, setting goals, or the candy isle at the grocery store.

Lisa Cranbrook 2020 Schedule

Beginner