Name: Get the Gals Riding
Start: 2025-04-02T18:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-04-02T20:00:00-05:00
Location: 3201 John Joanis Dr, Stevens Point, WI, United States, Wisconsin 54482

Welcoming All Female Cyclists: New or Experienced Ages 14+
Join the Hostel Shoppe women in a conversation about cycling. "Get the Gals Riding" is an event geared towards women ages 14+ who are new to cycling, or who are experienced but may need some additional guidance. On April 2nd at 6pm-8pm we are creating a space for women in the cycling community to come together and ask some of the tough questions and share some answers. We'll be having an open Question & Answer conversation about riding topics ranging from chamois knowledge, bathroom breaks, training and racing, trail etiquette, and more. Maria Osowski and Kim Basala, two women who are experienced cyclists and are involved in our local cycling community, will be sharing their stories and experiences and answering your questions. If you’re a little shy or you need some time to think of your questions, you can submit questions anonymously through our Google Form or submit them the day of the event.
Gear can be expensive, and it can be hard to pull the trigger on items that you don’t know will work for you. There will also be free items from a gently used, unisex gear drive that attendees can choose from to help get things rolling. Anyone is welcome to donate cycling gear, or even outdoor clothing that could be used for riding and they will get a 10% coupon for Hostel Shoppe new Parts, Accessories and Clothing if they donate. We will sort through items ahead of time to determine if it is in acceptable and safe condition.
• Visit with Cycling Experts: Kim Basala & Maria Osowski
• Join an open Q&A session about riding topics ranging from cycling basics to training and racing, trail etiquette, bathroom breaks, chamois knowledge, nutrition and more.
• Bonus: Choose free items from our gently used gear drive.
• Get a free Hostel Shoppe swag bag.
• Snacks and beverages provided.
Meet Kim Basala
Coming from a family of bike racers, I developed a love for cycling at an early age, starting competitive racing at just seven years old. My journey has taken me from road racing to endurance events, and after having three children, I transitioned into Ironman triathlon racing. In 2020, a life-altering injury forced me to relearn how to walk, but I set a goal to return to gravel and mountain biking—overcoming adversity to reclaim my passion.
In 2024, I earned my PMBIA Level 1 coaching certification and am currently working toward my PMBIA Level 2 Air Instructor certification. This spring and summer, I will be coaching adults and youth in Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula, and Bentonville. Additionally, I serve on the PASTA board, representing all riders who use Standing Rocks, advocating for the cycling community and trail development. I am also a co-founder of Girls on Gravel.
My excitement for biking comes from the sense of community, the thrill of the ride, and the opportunity to support and inspire others on their own journeys.
Meet Maria Osowski
I have been riding bikes all of my life and began racing triathlons during graduate school in 2006, and mountain bikes and cross country skis in 2008. I used to focus on shorter WORS racing, but have transitioned to longer distances and varied types of riding. I have won the Fat Bike Birkie three times, Ironbull Gravel three as well, the Iola Snow Bully twice, and Epic overall in the three times I have competed there. Last year, I was very excited and blessed to be awarded a Belt Buckle in the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race. I had qualified for this event after a 2nd place finish in the Lutsen 99er. I have spent time riding, skiing, running, and strength training to perform well at many levels and in age groups or overall awards in nearly all racing. I have been supported by wonderful family and friends throughout all seasons of racing and training.
In my off time, I raise two boys and keep track of their soccer, running, and biking. I work as a physical therapist and this provides me with a background in recovery and rehab to keep my body healthy and strong to continue to race fast and enjoy riding. I have greatly enjoyed bike packing trips and a chance to see the world from new angles. I am also part of the Point Bock Board of directors. We not only organize the Point Bock Run, but donate money to local groups to assist local races and developments in silent sports. Life is a wonderful adventure and I am blessed to be able to enjoy it on a bike.
Donate Your Gently Used Gear
Hostel Shoppe is looking for gently used cycling gear to benefit new riders at our "Get the Gals Riding" event. Items should be gently used, not have holes or damage, and be clean and in safe working order. Here are some ideas of items you might want to donate to repurpose and give them a new life:
• Cycling Apparel like jerseys, jackets, helmets, shoes, gloves.
• Accessories like racks, lights, bags, mirrors, bells, car racks and more!
• Parts that still have life left in them like tires, cassettes, derailleurs
• Other outdoor gear and apparel useful for cycling.
• Or, if you wish, you can even donate a bike in sizes that will fit women and teenage girls.
Just drop it off at the Hostel Shoppe between 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and 10 AM to 4 PM Saturday from now thourgh March 28, 2025. All donors will receive a 10% off Coupon good towards Hostel Shoppe Parts, Accessories and Clothing for donating.
Submit your Questions
Sometimes questions can be awkward. So, we've created an anonymous Google Form for you to submit your biking questions to our cycling experts. Don't be shy! We really want to know what's on your mind!