Team Member Summer Adventures: Amy Gan Bailey
Catch up with PSIA-AASI National Team members as they share their summer adventures and how it keeps them on their game for winter. Here’s how AASI Snowboard Team member Amy Gan Bailey spent her summer.
What’s been your go-to summer activity or big summer adventure?
My big summer adventure has been enjoying my home state – I love Vermont! I’ve been spending most weekends riding Stratton bike park and getting some longer rides exploring the gorgeous gravel on my e-gravel bike (let the haters hate). I’ve also been doing a bit of hiking and trying to find more moments to get out on my paddle board.
Why is this one of your favorite activities in the offseason?
Riding the bike park is so fun, and it is super similar to playing on a snowboard, lapping with friends and always working on improving little things. Longer gravel rides always push me in the “type two fun” kind of way. It also allows me the opportunity to explore, enjoy the outdoors, and eat extra snacks.
What did you learn?
Long endurance rides do not come natural to me, but pushing my limits and getting comfortable being uncomfortable always feels worth it later. It’s also a good lesson to not compare yourself to others. A long ride to me is not a long ride to someone else and vice versa.
How does this keep you physically and mentally engaged in the offseason?
I think there are so many lines you can draw that connect what we do in the winter to these summer activities. The obvious one is keeping your mind and body working together and staying active. Another big one for me is the constant self-check in to stay motivated to keep learning. There is no substitute for time spent training and practicing if you want to get better at any activity.
