MTB Girls Magazine witnessed Gabby Huffman’s historic second straight Marinduro victory at one of California’s biggest enduro races.
A Massive Year for Marinduro
There are races, and then there are moments that become part of mountain bike history. This year’s fourth annual Marinduro delivered exactly that. Gabby Huffman Makes Marinduro History.
By Liz Donahey, Editor-in-Chief at MTB Girls Magazine | May 2026 Issue 17
With more than 500 racers showing up from across California and beyond, the energy at this year’s event was undeniable. Riders lined up with nerves, excitement, determination, and huge smiles. It created one of the most vibrant and supportive race atmospheres we’ve seen all year. From first-time racers to elite-level athletes, the trails were filled with encouragement, laughter, grit, and even happy tears at the finish line.
MTB Girls Magazine was there live on the scene as history unfolded at what is now considered the fourth-largest enduro race in California. In a state with a massive mountain bike scene and races happening nearly every weekend, that growth says a lot. It reflects the culture, reputation, and momentum surrounding Marinduro.
Gabby Huffman’s Historic Win
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend came from Marinduro’s own Gabby Huffman, who captured her second consecutive victory in the eMTB Women’s Expert/Pro category with a commanding total time of 22:19.64.
Being there to watch Gabby race was unforgettable. She rode with calm, grace, beauty, quiet confidence, and fierce determination beyond her years. There was no panic or unnecessary aggression, just focus, composure, and flow. For such a young woman to carry herself with that much dignity under pressure was something special to witness firsthand Gabby Huffman Makes Marinduro History.
As MTB Girls Magazine shared in our previous feature on Gabby, her rise has been driven not only by talent, but also by consistency, passion, and a genuine love for riding. Gabby once said mountain biking gave her “confidence and freedom.” That feeling was visible throughout every stage of the race. She carried herself with the poise of a seasoned athlete while still showing the joy of someone who truly loves riding.
Her second straight Marinduro victory proves something riders know deep down. If you love something enough, keep showing up, and believe in yourself, incredible things can happen.
The Story Behind the Success
Part of what makes Gabby’s story so inspiring is the foundation behind it.
Long before Gabby became one of the standout riders at Marinduro, her father, Vernon Huffman, was already helping build opportunities and community around youth mountain biking. In many ways, Gabby’s riding journey mirrors the growth of Marinduro itself. Both were built through passion, belief, and people willing to put in the work before the spotlight arrived.
Vernon represents what so many incredible mountain bike dads do behind the scenes every single day. He is the definition of an MTB girl dad, showing up early, helping build teams and opportunities, supporting dreams, and creating spaces where young women can thrive in the sport.
With Father’s Day approaching, MTB Girls Magazine wants to give Vernon Huffman a huge shoutout and thank you. Vernon is one hell of a dude and one hell of an MTB dad, and stories like Gabby’s remind us how important supportive parents and mentors are in helping shape the next generation of riders.
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