Kate Courtney’s Comeback: BC40 Smashes Leadville Record

When the ALLIED squad lined up at Leadville — Kate Courtney, Payson McElveen, Taylor Lideen, Maude Farrell, and Michaela Thompson — there was a buzz. Leadville isn’t just another race. It’s the test. And this year, riding BC40s, they delivered something extraordinary.

Kate’s Return & Record-Breaking Ride

Returning from a wrist injury suffered earlier in the season, Kate Courtney showed up at Leadville with calm determination. Dust from forest fires, altitude, and long climbs — none of it shook her. She climbed Columbine, dug in her signature aero tuck, and crossed the finish in under seven hours — more than ten minutes faster than the previous record. Not just a win. A statement.

Payson, Taylor, Maude & Michaela: Mission Accomplished

Payson McElveen had just recovered from serious injury too. At Leadville, despite fatigue and pressure, he found his rhythm, dug deep, and claimed 5th place — matching his result from the previous year.

Taylor Lideen focused on pacing and staying with the front pack early, then played his cards smartly on the descents. A solid 7th place, a leap up from 11th last year.

For Maude Farrell, it was about riding her own race. She faced smoke, temperamental weather, and intense altitude, but kept her head in the game, finishing strong in 11th.

Michaela Thompson dealt with her own battle — a stomach issue on race day that threatened to derail her performance. But she hung tough, pushed through, and proved that grit, paired with BC40 performance, can carry you a long way.

BC40 Proves Its Mettle

Leadville isn’t easy. It demands gear and grit in equal measure. This year, BC40s didn’t just keep up — they set the pace. With Kate smashing the course record, and strong finishes from the rest of the team, it’s clear: design meets performance when the pressure’s on.

Bottom line:

This is more than a win. It’s a comeback, it’s a record, it’s validation — for Kate and for the BC40. Team Allied has raised the bar, and every athlete who crossed that line proved why this is a bike built for legends.