Andrew Onermaa: Modern Day Pilgrimages

Tour Divide 2025: Modern Day Pilgrimages

written and photos by Andrew Onermaa

Editor's Note: In this latest addition to the Buffet, Andrew Onermaa shares a note after having won (and VERY nearly setting a new FKT) the 2025 Tour Divide Single Speed division. If you have an epic ride report or story you'd like to share on The Buffet reach out to Zach at southcitystitchworks@gmail.com. Let's go!

Pilgrimages can take many forms, from traditional, long-distance journeys to shorter, more localized ones, and can even be metaphorical explorations of one's own beliefs.  

The Tour Divide needs no introduction; it’s the Holy Grail of bikepacking. I finally lined up this year because I had no other choice. It may sound dramatic, but the gravitational pull was simply too strong to resist any longer. After years of expeditions and races, I needed something that could truly get my anticipation up while providing a high level of uncertainty. The Divide has a rich history of trials and tribulations – just like what we see in the world of mountaineering. The figurative summit is Antelope Wells, and it’s never guaranteed.  

In the world of ultra-endurance, motive is arguably more important than fitness. ’Why the hell do I want to do this?’ - we ask.  Even if you cannot articulate the why, the why should propel you forward. For our most ambitious goals, there has to be a fire burning. Work, obligations, doubt and so many other factors want to put that fire out – it's up to you to keep it going, even if it's just smoldering for years.  

The key to really letting this metaphorical fire rage is finding others that support you... friends, family, partners, sponsors, community – the list goes on. Whoever they may be, let them in on your ambitions and goals; the right people will fuel it. For me, I was fortunate enough for Zach with South City Stitchworks to be one of those supporters. We dialed things in over the course of five months for a truly bomber set-up I could rely on.

I found myself at the start line in Banff this year as a result of a true team effort.

The scale of a pilgrimage isn’t as important as the pull it has on you. In an age of comfort and convenience, search deeply for what gives a sense of purpose and excitement. Look to others for ideas and inspiration but pursue what feels magnetic to you. It took me several years to work up to the Divide, but it resulted in the most impactful adventure of my life.

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