Doom & Despair

Now on YouTube: Doom & Despair, an official selection at 13 film festivals.

Some rides test your legs—Doom tests everything.

Directed by Jonathan Childs, Doom & Despair follows rider Zach Gass as he takes on one of the distance options of the 2024 Doom bikepacking event in the Ozark backcountry. Flat ground is rare at Doom, replaced by relentless climbs and sudden drops. Technical riding, unpredictable weather, and long, remote miles amplify every challenge. With resupplies unreliable at best, riders must dig deep to endure the harsh reality of the event. On the very first day, Zach faces those truths head-on, where determination meets an unforgiving landscape. At its heart, this is both a story of endurance and a testament to the bikepacking community—the camaraderie, support, and shared spirit of adventure that make it all worthwhile. Learn more about the film and the filmmaker at www.jonathanchilds.com.