Daily Inspiration: Meet Susan Durham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Durham

Hi Susan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Susan Durham: A Journey of Passion, Perseverance, and Pedals

My name is Susan Durham, and I’m the Executive Director of Avout Racing. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, I’ve always been drawn to anything that fuels my adrenaline. My journey has been anything but linear, but every twist and turn has led me to where I’m meant to be—helping young athletes develop confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for cycling.

It all started when I discovered snowboarding at 17, a passion that pulled me to Colorado in 1998. Instead of going to college, I moved to Winter Park, landing a job at the West Portal Station, where I ran the Food and Beverage Department. Unfortunately, a torn ACL forced me to return to Georgia for surgery.

But the Rockies had a hold on me. In 2000, I moved back to Colorado, settling in Lakewood and working at McCormick’s Fish House in LoDo as a server, cocktail waitress, and bookkeeper. Life took another unexpected turn, and I returned to Georgia, this time enrolling in culinary school. I graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in 2008 and worked in some of Atlanta’s top restaurants, including Restaurant Eugene, Woodfire Grill, and Canoe. My passion for food was undeniable, but what truly set me apart was my ability to connect with people. I challenged myself to spend five to ten minutes with each guest, learning their tastes and crafting a dining experience tailored to them. Then, I realized my greatest gift—connecting with others in a way that most people can’t.

During this time, I also took on the most critical role of my life: caregiver. My father was battling severe renal and cardiac issues, and I chose to stay in Georgia to be with him during his final years. His passing prompted me to shift my focus to nursing, earning my CNA and searching for opportunities in private home healthcare. That search led me to a family seeking household management and childcare assistance. What started as a job quickly became something more—I’ve been with them for 12 years and even built a property management business overseeing their investment properties. They became my second family.

Despite all this, Colorado never stopped calling. I found myself drawn back for the third time.

I’ve always loved running, and my first half-marathon in 2008 helped me navigate a challenging time. I was instantly hooked. That runner’s high reignited my love for adrenaline, and soon, I started noticing cyclists. Curiosity led me to buy my first mountain bike, and I fell in love with the freedom it brought—whether on single-track trails or cruising along the beltline.

Then came the pandemic in 2020, and with it, a significant shift. I invested in my first road bike, not realizing that decision would change my life. I found my people in the cycling community—more friends than I’d made through any other avenue. In 2022, I joined the **Betty Squad**, a badass group of like-minded women doing epic things like triathlons and hiking across the Grand Canyon.

Becoming a mom in 2015 was another pivotal moment. My son was born at 39 weeks—on my 39th birthday. I always knew I wanted him to grow up in Colorado, and in 2023, we made the move. It was a leap of faith, but one I knew we had to take.

One night, while meeting up with my Colorado Betty Squad sisters, someone mentioned Avout Racing. I had been looking for a way to introduce my son to mountain biking, so I signed him up. I started volunteering and sweeping on rides and quickly fell in love with the program. Watching my son gain confidence and social skills through cycling was incredible. Soon after, I became a coach, then joined the Board of Directors, and in June 2024, I stepped into my current role as Executive Director and Team Manager.

I’ve learned so much about junior cycling development and the importance of fostering tenacity, resilience, and a growth mindset in young athletes. Kids are eager for guidance and thrive when given the right tools. In today’s world, mindset training is just as crucial as physical coaching—they go hand in hand.

Looking ahead, I have big goals for this team. We have 50 coaches ready for our **Spring Session starting March 31st**, with programs across Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, Conifer, Ken Caryl, Colorado Springs, and even Klamath Falls, OR. **Avout Racing**, founded in 2013, has grown to 450 athletes and offers programs ranging from early pedalers to national-level racers. We have something for everyone—**Recreational riding, Academy training, Selects racing, an Enduro Team, All Girls, Women on Wheels, and an Elite Adult Team.**

This is my life in a nutshell. If you want to learn more about Avout Racing—or better yet, go for a ride—reach out!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not! But I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every challenge I’ve faced has shaped me into who I am today.

Early on, I took an unconventional path, choosing work over college and bouncing between careers—from food and beverage to culinary arts, caregiving, and eventually property management. Each transition came with its own set of struggles, but adaptability became my superpower.

Losing my father was a major turning point. I put my career on hold to be there for him, and while it was emotionally and financially challenging, it was one of the most meaningful decisions of my life. His passing pushed me to rethink everything, and I found myself searching for purpose in new ways.

Like anyone navigating life’s twists and turns, I’ve faced moments of uncertainty and setbacks. Through fitness, endurance sports, and surrounding myself with the right people, I rebuilt my life and found a renewed sense of direction. Running, cycling, and ultimately, triathlon helped me channel my energy in a positive way and reminded me of the strength I had all along.

Stepping into my role as **Executive Director of Avout Racing** came with its learning curve. Managing a large-scale junior development team requires strategic planning, leadership, and resilience. It’s a constant balancing act—ensuring our programs are accessible, securing funding, and fostering a strong team culture. But watching these kids develop confidence, resilience, and a love for the sport makes every challenge worth it.

The road hasn’t been smooth, but I’ve learned that the best views come after the hardest climbs. Every setback has been a setup for something greater, and I’m incredibly grateful for where I am today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As the Executive Director of Avout Racing, I have the privilege of leading one of the country’s most dynamic junior cycling development programs. Our mission is to help kids develop as athletes and individuals—building confidence, resilience, and a love for cycling that will last a lifetime.

Avout Racing offers a wide range of programs, from **early pedalers just starting out to elite national-level racers**. We have an incredible team of **50 coaches** supporting **450 athletes** across multiple locations in Colorado and beyond. We provide structured training, mentorship, and a strong community that fosters growth on and off the bike.

What I’m Known For & What Sets Me Apart

I specialize in connection and leadership. I thrive on bringing people together and creating an environment where kids and coaches can succeed. My greatest strength is my ability to engage with others, understand their motivations, and foster a strong sense of belonging.

What sets me apart is my unconventional journey. I didn’t grow up racing bikes or following a traditional path in sports leadership. My background in culinary arts, hospitality, caregiving, and property management has shaped my approach to building relationships and managing people. I bring a unique perspective rooted in adaptability, passion, and a deep understanding of what it takes to help others grow.

What I’m Most Proud Of

I am most proud of the impact we’re making at Avout Racing. It is gratifying to watch kids progress—not just in their bike skills but also in their confidence, discipline, and resilience. I’ve seen firsthand how cycling transforms lives, and it is an honor to be part of that journey.

I’m also proud of our team’s growth and the expansion of Avout Racing on a national level. We’re continuing to create opportunities for young athletes and ensuring that more kids have access to the sport, regardless of their background or experience level.

My work is about inspiring and empowering the next generation. I believe in the power of sports to shape character, and I’m committed to ensuring that every athlete who comes through our program leaves with skills, confidence, and lifelong friendships.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
The best advice I can give is this: **Just start.** You don’t have to have everything figured out, and you don’t need to be the best right away. Whether in sports, career, or personal growth, progress comes from showing up consistently and being willing to learn.

One of my biggest lessons is that **growth happens outside your comfort zone**. I’ve faced challenges, taken unconventional paths, and pivoted careers more than once. But every step—whether a success or a setback—taught me something valuable. Don’t be afraid to take risks, try new things, and embrace the learning process.

I also wish I had known the power of community earlier in my journey. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, challenge you, and inspire you to improve. In cycling, leadership, and life, the people you surround yourself with will significantly impact your mindset and success.

Finally, enjoy the ride. It’s easy to get caught up in goals and expectations, but remember to celebrate the small wins along the way. Whether you’re just getting into cycling, starting a new job, or working toward a personal goal, take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come.

If you’re looking for a community that supports growth, resilience, and having fun while pushing limits—ride with us at Avout Racing!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.avoutracing.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avoutracing/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AvoutRacing/

Image Credits
matthew howshar creative