Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Closing out my season

     This season has been incredible. I had many ups and downs but in the end I can look back and see just how much fun I had and the experience I gained while racing and living in Europe. I also made several friends here, which has been super cool. I completed almost all my goals and made a lot of progression as a rider. I capped my season off with an 11th place in the junior World Championships in Tabor, Czech Republic. 

Riding around 9th position, seconds off of group for 6th I had a rough crash that put me back into around 20th with 2 to go. I gave it everything I had and finished 2 seconds out of top 10. The environment was ecstatic. Worlds is something different entirely.. That is for sure. 

I can't thank the Segers enough for allowing me to live with them and pursue my dream. I honestly feel like part of the family and I'm going to miss you guys so much! (Especially Moekes soup:p) It's been amazing!  Tom, can't wait to see what the future brings man! Have a great mountain bike season with your team! Love you guys!

Thanks to my parents for the on going support in every way. Thanks for letting me chase my dreams and staying positive through everything. Especially my dad for making everything a smooth process. Countless emails and phone calls made this possible. You're awesome. 

To my coach Matt Weik. I wouldn't have had such success without you. Thanks for always being flexible and positive. You have helped me with a lot more than just cycling in my life. I appreciate what you do for me!

To Tom McDaniel for all the support in the US races and being an incredible friend. One of the best mechanics and people I have had the privilege to work with. 

Thanks to all my supporters in Europe who are constantly asking how races went and wishing me good luck! As well as my supporters in the US. I love you guys. I miss everyone back in Louisville very much! Hope to visit soon.

To Focus Bikes, thanks for everything. It's been an amazing 2 years of support! Everyone I have met involved with this company has been very helpful and kind. We climbed a lot of podiums, did a lot of training, and took some amazing pictures together :) I hope for more!

Sram CX1 really does care. You guys helped me at almost every race wether it be something as small as asking if I want a coffee, or as large as redoing my entire bike. All I had to do was ask. You guys are more than professional and it was awesome to be apart of that.

Also a huge thanks to Challenge tires for all the help. I was prepared for everything this season! HED wheels for my bomb proof Ardenns! We hopped many barriers ;) 

To Wellness Chiropractic Care,  when I arrived to nationals I didn't think I would be racing. I was in so much pain. Thanks for the best adjustments I've ever had! You're the best!

Cuore for my sweet kits, Bontrager for the amazing shoes, Bell Helmets for keeping me safe, Oakley for the fresh and safe eye wear, Enzo's Button for the best Embro around, Time For supporting me with very light and reliable pedals, and to infinite nutrition as well as SWORD nutrition for helping me stay cramp free! 

Also huge thanks to USA cycling for all their help at the races and with traveling this season. We shocked some euros together. Let's keep doing that!

I'm excited to move on to u23 category! It's going to be a big challenge but I'm looking forward to seeing what I can do! 

Being a junior is something I will never forget.


Thanks to all.