Debra's story: Toad Strangler

BaseCamp athlete Debra Kirkhus shared her experience at the 2025 Toad Strangler gravel bike race in Chatham, New York.

If you told me a year ago that I would be entering a 40 mile gravel grinder with over 4100ft of elevation gain in the cold, mud, and rain, I would have told you that you were crazy! But with great coaching and BaseCamp training (and some persuasive friends) I felt ready, and I did it!

This was my first time doing The Toad Strangler Gravel Grinder in beautiful Chatham, NY on Sunday, April 6th. I was pleased to complete the 40.7 mile route with 4193 feet of climbing at a 12.4 mi/hr average speed on my new Lauf Seigla Race Transmission bike. She was MADE for the mud and dirt! This was such a wonderfully challenging and fun filled day, and my biggest elevation gain:mileage ratio. My nutrition seemed appropriate, but next time I could work on hydration. I realize I don't drink enough when the weather is cold. This event was a precursor "warm up" ride for the upcoming Farmer's Daughter Gravel Grinder in May, which is also in Chatham. That ride will have 63 miles with 6000 ft. of climbing. Stay tuned for that!