OUR CORE VALUES
FUN / COMMUNITY / RESPECT / INTEGRITY / ATHLETICISM.
We organise fun, fulfilling events from the Catalan Pyrenees. With a commitment to inclusivity, we strive to make bikepacking a more inspiring and diverse sport, enabling all individuals to realise their full potential on and off the bike.
L’esperit iS Catalan for ‘the
spirit’.
The element within a human being thought to give the body life, energy, and power: the soul.
Founded in 2021
L’esperit del Bikepacking was founded by ultra-endurance athlete James Hayden, having spent ten years competing in races across the world.
After settling as a family in the autonomous region of Catalunya, located in the Pyrenees, the organisation was named using Catalan as a mark of respect to the land and people that have welcomed our family here.
James has experienced many different events and cultures during his cycling career. Wanting to give back to the sport that gave him so much, he now wants to offer events based on his experience and values for the sport. With a focus on fun and fulfilment (it's still a challenge), the routes for our events have been painstakingly pieced together from scratch by James, with no trail left unchecked.
L’esperit del Bikepacking is more than events
We are an organisation for change and empowerment.
From day one we have worked to give opportunities to all. In partnership with Tailfin Cycling, the support of our Startline Bursary has so far helped 20 people from under-represented groups to join us at our events. Through the Startline Bursary, we cover the cost of entry, and Tailfin provide financial contributions towards travel and accommodation expenses. We have also put on free to attend Bikepacking Experience Weekends, taking newcomers on trips to boost their comfort and ability in the sport.
TEAM
JAMES HAYDEN
Founder & Director
James has spent ten years pushing his limits in ultra endurance racing and bikepacking, with podiums in most major races. James loves to explore by bike and wants to give back to the sport through L’esperit del Bikepacking. He has a high attention to detail, strong integrity and morals, and loves working on building great routes!
ISABELLE HAYDEN
Marketing & Brand Director
Isabelle leads the brand, marketing and operations at L’esperit del Bikepacking, following her career in marketing and event management in London. Thriving on creativity, Isabelle loves to have many craft projects on the go; from writing and drawing to hand embroidery and ceramics.