How long have you been riding a bike?
Since I was 5 years old
Tell us something inspiring and/or unique about yourself that relates to cycling.
I love mountain biking as a way to explore and learn about this amazing planet we live on and all the beautiful creatures that inhabit Earth. Mountain biking can take you deeper into a country and culture than you would get to by walking, hiking or driving. At the same time, it’s slow enough that you can connect with the people that live in a place. I’ve mountain biked all over the US and the World: Nepal, Guatemala, Peru, Chile, New Zealand, Thailand, Canada.
What is the biggest accomplishment you’ve made on a bike?
I had a severe concussion and leg injury a few years ago (snowboarding) and didn’t know if I’d ever ride again. It took me a year to get back to riding, but mountain biking was there to becon me at first and later to welcome me back gently and slowly to healing my body through physical activity. The hundreds of hours I spent in PT and at the gym were accomplished with a vision in my mind and my heart of riding trails again.
What’s the biggest challenge you faced with regards to cycling and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge is riding on trails with lots of exposure (cliff drops on one side or both of the trail, with minimal space for mistakes). I haven’t overcome it yet. Each time I experience it, I just keep trying. I keep exposing myself to the thing I’m afraid of. The feeling of discomfort and fear is usually still there, but opening myself up to riding the thing that scares me also allows me to ride in some pretty spectacular places!
Free form – tell us anything you’d like!
In recent years I’ve gained a immense joy from showing first-timers on a mountain bike the sport I love the most. With an infinity game mindset, I take them out and provide a welcoming, gentle, encouraging and fun atmosphere. It reminds me that we all have first times at everything and to keep a playful, beginner mind with everything, including the sport I’ve practiced for over 20 years. I go with no plan or agenda, to just play bikes.