As someone who was diagnosed with Anxiety Depressive Disorder at the age of 18, Mental Miller behind my back. These days I prefer Mustang Miller, but in this case.. maybe its Mechanical Miller I thought I would share these in a new mini series lovingly called Mental Mechanicals - to help digest and process those moments a co2 cartridge can’t fix.

For Merida Miller, Gravel Mexico was more than a race. It was a return to a place she has loved since childhood, now seen from the saddle. Between the brutal beauty of the desert, the warmth of riders and locals, and the finish line fiestas filled with mezcal and tortillas, every detail felt alive with culture. Gravel Mexico showed her how cycling can truly weave us into the places we ride.

Emmanuel’s first year of gravel riding took him straight to The Traka 100 — Europe’s biggest gravel event — and it was pure chaos in the best way. From Girona’s warm welcome to torrential race-day rain, steep climbs, and slippery descents, every moment tested him. But it was the shared struggle, encouragement from strangers, and connection with fellow riders that made it unforgettable. For Emmanuel, The Traka isn’t just a race, it’s an experience.

Contributor, Makesi takes on his second SBT Gravel, the high-altitude gravel race through Steamboat Springs.