Looking back on this 2014 season brings quite the list of highlights.  With this being my second year really focusing on mountain biking since primarily Moto racing, my goal was to compete in as many different type of events and podium them all in Cat 2 in order to prepare myself and gain knowledge in becoming a well rounded, strong competitor.  As the season ended, consisting of 3 different series, many long race weekends, plus 7-10 hour work days over summer to riding in the evening, I managed to complete what I set out to do taking series wins in XC, Downhill, and Enduro.  Being able to win all 5 California Enduro rounds that consisted of all new circumstances to me was no doubt a pleasant surprise. Although some were quick to say that I should have raced expert with my comparable times, it was important to me to prove that I was ready.  Northstar DH racing and CCCX XC events kept me on my toes for fitness and skill all season which definitely helped my Enduro strength. Winning both those series for my first time gave me the confidence I needed to make the transition to Expert/Cat 1 for 2015. 

So many great people who helped make this year of traveling possible and I can only grow more excited about making the best of the upcoming new year.  From my parents to SV Cylesport for financial and bike support to the amazing hookups from Monster Army, SPY Optics, Schwalbe Tires, Gamut USA, SRAM, Leatt, Bell Helmets, VP Pedals, and Verasty Clothing.

Battleborn Enduro

Last Friday morning began the road trip from the cool and secluded Santa Cruz Mountains out to the very warm, rocky and dry Reno, NV high desert for round one of the California Enduro Series.  This would be my first big enduro style event and I was ready for the challenge.  Pre riding the course seemed like smart preparation for race day so we took off into the mountains; 4 stages of timed descents, 25 miles of transfer riding and race runs, 6,000 feet of climbing.  The terrain was nothing I've ridden before as living in Santa Cruz makes for smooth, loamy and tree covered single track through the woods. 

Four hours later, sweat dripping, and water deprived, every segment of the course had been covered and I was ready for race day.  

My weapon of choice was the 2014 Specialized Enduro Expert 29er for its great combination of climbing and downhill capabilities. With my background in XC and DH, I felt right at home on the bike and this style of racing.  Each of the 4 stages went great for me and I was very happy with my riding and staying smooth.  This gave me the Win in Sport Men (19-34) which I am so excited with being one of the youngest at 19 yrs old. 

Next up will be round 1 of the Northstar DH Series this weekend and the second CA Enduro race in China Peak, CA.  Thankful to those who support me such as Mom/Dad, SV Cyclesport, Monster Army, SPY Opitcs, Sram, Synch Bands, Leatt, Gamut USA, and Schwalbe Tires.

First blog post

This blog will follow my biking adventures and competitive racing as I work to succeed in all forms of bicycle racing whether Cross Country, Enduro, Downhill, and Road.  Follow my progress this summer as I work towards the winning ways.

Downhill video shoot for SV Cyclesport