I Chose VNTRbirds Because I Hate Rocks—and They Helped Me Ride Anyway

I chose VNTRbirds because they are women-friendly, genuinely inclusive—and because I really HATE ROCKS.

You're probably thinking, what?! Yes! Listen, I love to bike and enjoy the challenge, but I just cannot stand a lot of the chunky rocks. I just see all the consequences in those rocks, and it makes me want to turn around. They intimidate me.

As someone who didn’t learn to mountain bike until later in life, and who didn’t grow up playing sports, I’ve often felt out of place in the biking world. Many women I’ve met are already very advanced riders, and since I usually ride with my boyfriend (who’s a good guy, but doesn’t always take the time to slow down and help me build confidence), I’ve struggled to progress at my own pace.

Winning the VNTRbirds scholarship meant the world to me. It was the only clinic I was able to attend all summer, and it happened to be at Valmont Bike Park—which made it even more special. The scholarship made it accessible for me to participate, and the clinic itself gave me something I hadn’t had before: a space where I could slow down, work on features, and build real confidence without pressure or comparison.

What made the biggest impact was being surrounded by other women—many of whom were also anxious or newer to riding—who were facing and conquering their own fears. That kind of shared vulnerability was so powerful. It was incredibly encouraging and empowering, because I will (and have) cried many times out on the trails, feeling defeated or overwhelmed.

One of my proudest moments came at the clinic: riding over a section of chunky rocks with a drop-off—something that had intimidated me for a long time. But this time, I was able to approach it at my own speed, with the kind of patient support I wouldn’t normally get from myself or my partner. And we had fun! We laughed, we connected, and I felt completely free to be my authentic self.

I’ve never felt more included or supported in a biking community. VNTRbirds gave me more than skills; they gave me confidence, belonging, and a renewed love for riding. As a mom and small business owner, it’s hard to find time that’s just for me—but this experience left a lasting impression. I came away not just a more capable rider, but someone who finally believes she belongs on the trail.

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Andrea Uliano is in the final stages of earning her Master of Science in Nursing and will soon be a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Dermatology, Aesthetics, Wellness, and Mental Health. With over 20 years of healthcare experience and a strong background in both psychiatry and aesthetics, she offers safe, ethical, and results-driven care tailored to each patient. As the founder of The Beauty Rehab in the Colorado mountains, Andrea blends clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the high-altitude lifestyle to support skin health and overall well-being. is in the final stages of earning her Master of Science in Nursing and will soon be a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Dermatology, Aesthetics, Wellness, and Mental Health. With over 20 years of healthcare experience and a strong background in both psychiatry and aesthetics, she offers safe, ethical, and results-driven care tailored to each patient. As the founder of The Beauty Rehab in the Colorado mountains, Andrea blends clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the high-altitude lifestyle to support skin health and overall well-being.