Catamount Classic, VT 2014

The last race of the season came a little too fast, but I was more than excited to get out there and race. The course was so much fun, with A-line drops and a gap jump plus technical rocks and roots throughout. It was going to be an awesome race out there no matter what!

Before the race we experience little pieces of Vermont by riding incredible trails, enjoying Ben & Jerry's, and spending time in Burlington. The race stress was oh so low and the beautiful state was incredible to explore with my great teammates. 

The night before the race, the rain began to fall and was still going strong until it was time to start. My teammates, Veda and Kelsey, and I were on the line with two canadians in our category and all the cat 1 women. Off the line Veda went straight into the lead and I was right behind her, but around the first corner a cat 1 woman took the pass. I followed her in order to keep myself in second position. Soon the field entered into the single track, which was slick and filled with puddles. As we reached the top of the first climb, the rider in front of me crashed and I made my way around her. I stayed smooth throughout the course and paced myself for two more laps.

Out on the open grass sections I could see that the racers were spread apart, but a few girls were close behind. As we went through the start another cat 1 woman took the lead. I grabbed onto her wheel and we headed into the second lap. I followed her around the course until we reached a rock section before the gap jump. She didn't make the section and I was able to squeeze around on the left. I sped into the jump and could hear the loud cheering around me. I kept the lead into the third lap and ramped up the pace.

The gap grew and I was able to stay smooth through the mud, roots, and jumps, while enjoying every bit. I made my way to the finish with the win.

The 2014 season was absolutely incredible! I learned a lot and had many great accomplishments. I can't thank my family, supporters, friends, mentors, team, and sponsors enough. Once again: Specialized, Sram, ProGold, Probar, Osmo, Oakley, ESIgrips, DNA, Kewlfit, Elemental Herbs, Crankbrothers, Feedback Sports, Genuine Innovations, dznuts, and Bungalow Munch, you're the best! Whole Athlete has done so much for me, from cheering, fine tuning my bike, and amazing coaching. I am so grateful to be a part of it.

I can't wait until the season begins next year as a 17-18! Ride on!