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As the Inaugural Apacheria Gravel event on November 16, 2024 rapidly approaches, we are thrilled to introduce two crucial members of our team: Loyal Ma and Mike Hecker. With decades of experience in the world of cycling officiating and event announcing, these two are integral to ensuring that our event runs smoothly, fairly, and in true gravel cycling fashion. Both of them are passionate about the cycling community, and their combined expertise will elevate the experience for everyone involved.
We are beyond excited to welcome Loyal Ma, a UCI Commissaire with over four decades of experience officiating international cycling events. Loyal’s deep expertise in cycling makes him an invaluable addition to our team, bringing a wealth of knowledge to ensure fairness and safety throughout the race.
Originally from Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada, Loyal has an impressive career in cycling officiating that spans MTB and BMX disciplines. He served as the Chief UCI BMX Commissaire for the Western Hemisphere, a role that included overseeing BMX events at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Loyal’s experience doesn’t stop there – he has officiated at numerous World Championships, National Championships, and International Events. His credentials make him a respected figure in the cycling community, and we’re excited to have him bring that expertise to our event.
In addition to his hands-on work as a UCI official, Loyal has also worked tirelessly behind the scenes to mentor new officials and create training programs for them. He developed the curriculum for MTB and BMX at both the provincial and national levels, and his passion for teaching is apparent in his approach. Loyal’s engaging, hands-on style of education ensures that future officials are well-prepared for the rigors of international cycling.
Loyal has also played a key role in events like the Tour of Alberta, where he served as Technical Advisor, Course Director, and Member of the Organizing Committee. His work in event production ensures that not only is the race fair, but also that all riders and participants have the best experience possible.
We’re incredibly honored to have Loyal Ma overseeing Apacheria Gravel’s race operations, and we know his dedication to cycling will help create a positive, exciting experience for all participants. Whether you’re racing the Long, Medium, or Short course, Loyal’s commitment to fairness and safety will be evident throughout the event.
Be sure to say hello to Loyal at the event and experience his passion for the cycling community firsthand.
Joining Loyal Ma on the team is Mike Hecker, a dynamic event announcer with over 40 years of experience in the cycling world. Based in Santa Barbara, CA, Mike has worked as an announcer at some of the biggest cycling events across the United States, including the Sea Otter Classic, USA Cycling National Championships, and the UCI PRO CUP Series. His deep love for cycling and his enthusiasm for race day will bring an electric energy to the Apacheria Gravel event.
Mike’s career began as a competitive racer, where he raced in road, mountain bike, cyclocross, and velodrome disciplines. After transitioning from a competitive racer to an announcer, Mike has become a recognized voice in the world of cycling events. His ability to connect with riders and audiences alike is what makes him stand out as an event announcer. From introducing riders at the start line to conducting interviews, Mike’s high energy and personal touch make him a favorite among participants and spectators.
As the Event Announcer for Apacheria Gravel, Mike will be the voice you hear announcing race updates, welcoming the winners, and celebrating all the participants who are pushing themselves to achieve their personal bests. His extensive background in race day commentary will ensure that each moment of the event feels engaging and exciting, from the start of the race to the final lap.
Mike’s love for cycling goes beyond announcing; he is deeply invested in the community and the growth of the sport. His enthusiasm for seeing participants compete and finish strong is contagious, and his goal as an announcer is always to keep the energy up and make each person feel like a winner.
With his professionalism, experience, and passion, Mike will ensure that Apacheria Gravel is not just a race – it will be a memorable celebration of the gravel cycling community.
We are beyond excited to have Loyal Ma and Mike Hecker leading the Apacheria Gravel event. Their combined knowledge and dedication to cycling will help elevate the experience for both riders and spectators alike.
As we approach race day, we encourage all riders to familiarize themselves with the official schedule, understand race-day logistics, and get ready for the excitement that Loyal and Mike will help create. Their experience in cycling officiating and event announcing is invaluable to us, and we are confident they will help make Apacheria Gravel a premier event in the gravel cycling community.
We can’t wait to see you at the starting line with Loyal Ma and Mike Hecker guiding you every step of the way. It’s going to be an amazing ride!
