Cycling is more than just a sport; it mirrors life in its triumphs and trials. It’s beautiful, demanding, and deeply rewarding—qualities reflected in the shared journey of mother-daughter duo Tamara Bessette and Ivy Audrain, both accomplished cyclists and Ventum Racing athletes.

This winter Ivy, a former road professional now racing in the UCI Cyclocross field, sat down with her mother Tamara, a seven-time Masters National Champion for an interview to discuss gravel and road racing.

A heartwarming and inspiring conversation emerged about racing, growth, and their unique relationship forged on two wheels.

Exploring Gravel

Ivy: Mom, you’ve had an incredible year, winning multiple National Championships. You’ve raced for a long time, but gravel has been a newer venture for you. How has your experience on the road translated to gravel?

Tamara: The fitness aspects certainly overlap, but the skills were a learning curve. My road experience—like pack dynamics and knowing when to attack—helped a lot. But the unpredictability of gravel racing took some adjusting.

Ivy: I remember those first rides—you were definitely nervous about riding off-road. (Both laughing)

Tamara: (Laughs) Absolutely! I wasn’t comfortable with things like singletrack, rocks, or roots. It all felt so foreign compared to smooth roads. But having you guide me through, answering questions about tire pressure and cornering, made all the difference. I learned to embrace the challenge because I had the right support.

Photo Credit: Chris Ecret

A National Champion

Ivy: Let’s talk about your Road National Championship wins. This year you won both the road race and criterium titles. What changed for you this season?

Tamara: It was a combination of things. I dialed in my training and nutrition, but having the Ventum NS1 was transformative. Knowing my bike was reliable and responsive let me focus entirely on the race. Whether it was sprinting for the win or climbing, the NS1 performed flawlessly.

Taking the Leap

Ivy: Okay on that note, let's talk about your Ventum.

You've been super old school about your approach; demanding rim-brakes only and having older components that you just didn't want to change because they were 'working fine'. Your NS1 was a huge upgrade from your last build, is it hard to want to make big equipment changes like that as a seasoned rider?

Tamara: Change is intimidating when you’ve spent decades on a similar setup. There’s a degree of familiarity, almost like your favorite pair of shoes. The NS1 exceeded my expectations—its comfort and responsiveness are unmatched. I was skeptical about disc brakes, but now I can’t imagine riding without them.

Ivy: So you’d say you’re a believer now?

Tamara: You have no idea, it was everything I was skeptically hoping for and more! I've never been a rider who purchases for comfort, and I believed you'd have to sacrifice comfort for weight and responsiveness in a road frame. The NS1 dispelled that notion for me, really quickly.

I want to feel the bike move under me immediately when I press on the pedals, so when I could tell from the first ride how comfortable the NS1 was, I was like "Oh no is it not going to be responsive?!" But it was, and has been, extremely snappy. I'm super happy with that part of it, and going from rim brakes to disc brakes you assume you make a bit of a weight sacrifice, but I have not felt any disadvantage on the climbs. I'm a believer in disc brakes now! (laughs), but what feels like the flat speed and power transfer is just unparalleled, I haven't felt that in a bike before.

Beyond the Racing

Ivy: Beyond racing, what do you love most about cycling?

Tamara: Mentorship. When I started in the 1980s, cycling was tough, but I fell in love with the community. Now, I get to give back—coaching, leading clinics, and mentoring new riders. Seeing others grow in the sport is more fulfilling than any win.

Ivy: You’ve built such a strong community in Montana. What keeps you motivated?

Tamara: It’s the joy of sharing the sport. Winning is great, but helping others find confidence and passion in cycling is even better.

Ivy: I couldn't agree more, and a LOT of strong riders come out of Montana that you've helped. You should be proud! Okay finally, are you planning to defend your National Championship titles next year?

Tamara: (laughs) We’ll see. I need to take my off-season first and see how hungry I am when Nationals roll around next year.

Ivy: Totally makes sense. Rest up, and I’ll see you in Arizona for some winter training, Mom. Congrats again!

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