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Samara Sheppard and Cole Davis dominate the Ukiah Mendo Gravel Epic, claiming victory in their debut rides at the final event of the 2026 Grasshopper Adventure Series. This win sets the stage for their upcoming challenge at Unbound Gravel 200.
Sheppard, a New Zealander, completes the grueling 76-mile course in 4:25:54, showcasing her mountain biking skills on the challenging terrain. The course features two major climbs totaling 8,420 feet and a treacherous 13-mile descent against strong headwinds. Sheppard pulls away from her closest rivals, Flavia Oliveira Parks and Jen Tavé, on the final climb and technical descent.
Tavé and Cassius Anderson finish third, securing overall titles for their elite divisions in the five-race Grasshopper Series. Davis, hailing from Roseville, California, prepares for his first Unbound Gravel 200, while Sheppard ranks seventh in the Life Time Grand Prix standings after the Sea Otter Classic Gravel.
Sheppard describes the race as a solid preparation for Unbound, enjoying the diverse course conditions. Tavé, despite falling off the pace, expresses satisfaction in winning the Grasshopper overall title for a second time. With these results, the stage is set for an exciting showdown at Unbound.
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