Phoyote

Aaron Huey: America's native prisoners of war

2011-09-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

I am deeply sorry for not posting anything of significance lately, but I do have something I would like to share with you.">

Test of Metal 2011, June 18, 2011

2011-06-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

This is my second year in a row photographing the Test of Metal, and it proved even better than last year's race. Some of the World's best racers were on hand, Max Plaxton, Chris Sheppard, Catharine Pendrel, Marty Lazarski were some of the many Elites that were racing. The race is held in Squamish, BC and the race has been held since the early 90's. The race loop is 67km of uphill and downhill riding.

Last year at the TOM it was my first time in Squamish and I really had no idea what the course was like and came ill prepared for it. But since my dismal performance from last year I was never going let it happen again. I had a year to prepare myself for this event and I was going to get some excellent photos in 2011.

Arriving a day early this year I brought my offroad motor bike so I would be able to ride the TOM course the day prior to the race and know exactly where to go on race day to get the photos that I wanted in an adequate amount of time.

This year instead of sleeping in my vehicle and in a tent the Rosser family offered me their spare room with bed to stay in. Ron & Sherry Rosser who's daughter is the World Jr Female DH Champion Lauren Rosser, and they are some of the nicest people I have ever met. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank them again for their hospitality and gratitude.

The night before the race it rained in Squamish right until around 7:0oam on race day which made trails muddy in spots. One thing you should know about Squamish is it could rain everyday for a week and then have one day of dry weather and it would dry up that day. The ground there sheds the water quite well.

Like last year I was in the pace car that would lead the racers to the single track through town. It is an exciting feeling to be leading out 1118 racers off of the start and taking their photos. The lead was constantly changing as riders were jockeying for position and to lead for a bit for bragging rights.

Colin Kerr

After leading the riders to the single track we waited for all the riders to enter the singletrack and then we headed back to the start/finish

Marty Lazarski

When passing through the feedzone it would be the first time the riders were going through it, and I realized I would have a little bit of a wait at my photo taking spot I had lined up.

Neal Kindree

After about a 20min wait the racers started to come through the Plunge, first was Chris Sneddon and right behind him was Chris Sheppard. I only stayed at the Plunge until Dre' Hestler came through and then I had made my way back to the finish. The Wednesday prior to this race I had separated my shoulder and collarbone from wiping out on my dirtbike. My collarbone was still pretty sore from the ordeal and carrying the camera bag full of camera gear was not the most pleasant of things to do. Getting the top riders was my objective and is why I opted to go back to the finish/start so early.

Chris Sheppard

Chris Sneddon

Max Plaxton

The BC Bike Race 2010

2010-07-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

If you’re a Mountain Biker, or someone that thinks they have skills on a mountain bike, then this race is for you. You might realize that you are not as good as you thought you were, but by the end of the week you will far exceed your expectations on the bike. In the beginning, there were people walking their bikes over the 3 inch roots on the prologue, but by the end of the week they were dialed in and riding most of the technical stuff. Sure, you will have your good days and bad days. Maybe have a bad day because you didn't eat enough the day before, or because you hammered too hard, but most will make it through the tough week. There were teams from Australia, South Africa, Belgium, England, Wales, Japan, and United States just to name a few of the countries that people had arrived from.

Dave Howells

I would like to say that I am a firm believer in living by flying off the seat of your pants (not a big planner, just winging it; advice from my mentor and teacher Zoriah Miller). I did not scope out any trails, or have any insight really about what to expect from the BCBR. The only place that I had really planned to photograph was the ‘Powerhouse Plunge’ descent in Squamish. The only reason I had this planned is because a week prior to BCBR, I missed the trail turn-off point at the ‘Test of Metal’ (as well as some good photos) in order to find this particular trail. In other words, Squamish is the only place that I had any knowledge about the trail.

I had an eye opener when I saw the trails in Cumberland, and all of the other venues for the BCBR. This year the destinations were: North Vancouver, Nanaimo, Cumberland, Powell River, Sechelt, Earl’s Cove, Squamish, and Whistler. I had never seen such beautiful trails with lush forest and such awesome single track. The only place that was significantly different was North Vancouver, which was an excellent place to have the prologue. The North Vancouver trail had lots of exposed roots, which were pretty high off the ground on the second half of the trail. The trail was pretty dry which gave the riders the ability to go fast. If you haven’t had much experience riding roots, this was going to slow you down, and the slower you go, the harder they are to ride. Some of the riders were walking the gnarly parts, and some riders hammered right through them. You could tell who the locals were on the prologue; they had the hometown advantage for sure.

One of the enjoyable things about the BCBR is that everyone is so friendly and excited to be there. Not just the racers, but the volunteers and staff as well. The food was great for the most part, aside from the day they served buttered chicken, and a curry dish as I am not a fan of foreign, or spicy foods. There was always ample supplies of water, and coffee for people that needed it. Sleeping in tents wasn’t all that bad either, and there were extra foam mattresses if you needed to soften up your bed.

The only thing that I would complain about it is waiting for the bathroom. Not something people like to do when they really have to go. As for the showers, I would shower before bed at around 9:00 pm because by this time everyone had already showered, and there was plenty of hot water. As for Internet access, there was always a Starbucks accessible except for in Cumberland. But the friendly people of Cumberland didn’t make that an issue. I had parked my vehicle in front of a house that was in front of the BCBR venue and was sitting in my car uploading photos onto my Mac. I had noticed that the house I was in front of had people out on the deck. I rolled the window down and asked if there was a Starbucks in Cumberland. “No Starbucks java around here unless you drive to Courtenay, but there are some local java shops if you need a fix.” I had replied that I wasn’t looking for coffee, and that I was looking for Internet. “Well just come on in and use our Internet if you like.” So there I was, uploading images to the Canadian Cyclist on a perfect stranger’s Internet while sitting in his living room.

I have taken a look and sorted the photos, etc., but I am my own worst critic. I tried to raise the bar and reach for the moon with the race photography at this event, and I was able to get some great photos, and photos that you and I will remember forever. Another event under the belt, many friends made, and a lot of great people met. I would honestly recommend attending this event whether you plan to race, support, volunteer, or anything else you can think of to do. It is great event to be a part of, and I am looking forward to it again next year. I already have some different things planned for my arsenal.

With not having a pot to piss in, or much $ in the bank (actually none), I had a lot to risk, and a lot to lose by going to the BCBR. If payment didn’t come through on time, etc., I wouldn’t have been able to get home, and would have been stuck in BC with no money. Things have been tough for me since late last year, and I figured that this was my break, my chance to change things for the better. It was not an easy task to get on with the BCBR as Media, but I am very grateful for the opportunity that I was given. I would like to thank the BCBR, Andreas Hestler, Dave Howells, Rob Jones (Canadian Cyclist), Dave Silver (Dave Silver Photography), and everyone else that was involved with me going to the BCBR. It was great!!!!

The Test of Metal

2010-06-21T10:19:00.001-07:00

Catharine Pendrel

Squamish is a former logging town that is on an inlet 45min north of Vancouver that now relies on tourism instead of logging. Squamish is mostly known for its rock climbing and is sought by climbers from all over the world. Squamish also is known for its trail system has some of the most epic trails in North America. Squamish has the largest piece of granite that is on the east side of town, which has housing development built on top of it. A saying in Squamish is “In Squamish you are either up or down”. The people of Squamish are very friendly, easy to chat with, and easy going.

Geoff Kabush/ Max Plaxton on right

The Test of Metal has been around since 1991 and is still the most popular Mountain Bike race in Canada (also the largest). The racecourse is 67km of double track, single track(37km), and some pavement. The race starts at the Recreation centre and goes out into the outlying area of Squamish. This year’s race sold out in 24 minutes, and has 900+ racers racing in it. One of unique things about this race is it is all community operated. And the whole town of Squamish gets involved in organizing and running this Epic event.

9 of the previous winners of T.O.M.

Matt Hadley

The race starts at 11:00am with 925 racers that showed up for the Test of Metal. The forecast was +21 and the trails today would prove to be the fastest ever. At the start line you could feel the energy as the racers were lining up. In the background you could hear the bagpipes and the Natives with their drums, it was an interesting contrast, where else would this happen besides at the TOM? (Test of Metal). The start line had Max Plaxton, Geoff Kabush, Neal Kindree, Carter Hovey, Chad Miles, Ruedi Shnyder, Andrew Kyle, Rickt Ferereau, and Michael Pruner who were all past winners of the TOM. Other notables at the start were Stefan Widmer, Marty Lazarski, Andreas Hestler, Kevin Calhoun, Jeff Neilson, Evan Guthrie, Corey Wallace, Kris Sneddon, Matt Hadley, Thomas Skinner, Greg Day, and up with the men was Catharine Pendrel (current World Cup leader) and Catherine Vipond (current Canada Cup leader).

Out of the starting gate

Off the start and until the single-track entry the lead riders were taking turns up front and jockeying for position, but no one was able to hold the front all the way. Strategy for the road section was just to hang on until the single track. As the riders get closer to the single-track the road gets steeper and steeper which puts some separation in the group of riders. The group has really strung out as we crest the top. Watching all of this from the back of the pace vehicle while taking photos puts a different perspective on it. It wouldn't be fair to cheer for one rider when you know half of the Elite field. You can see the faces grimacing from the pace that they are going at.

Near the top before the first single-track section there was lady in her mid 50's that was racing, she pulled aside and got off her bike and had looked like she was going to quit. One of the racers that was coming up from behind stopped and said, 'don't quit now, we can do this race together'. She wiped the tears from her eyes and mounted her bike. At the finish I did see her come in, and she did complete the race. It is things like this that make the TOM so special. There were stories of people giving other racers CO2 cartridges, tubes, help changing flats, spare chain links, and overall support for one another. The TOM isn't just a race, it is an experience.

View of Squamish

The first section of road after the single-track there was quite a large crowd of spectators, about 200 or so on the street sides. Geoff Kabush was in the lead and at this point Stefan Widmer was only 1:39min behind. Both Stefan and Geoff were off to a good start. At this point Catharine Pendrel was in the lead for women, and would be for the whole race.

The next stop was at the pump station, but with all of the spectators and racers it was difficult to get there in time for the lead riders. The TOM is not the most spectator friendly race, there are only a few points to see the racers, and the spectator spots are far out of the way. Aside from this the race was a huge success with Catharine Pendrel and Geoff Kabush winning their categories. (Elite Women & Elite Men)

Tugboats

At the finish all of the racers had smiles on their faces, you would think after such a sufferfest that they would have the look of dismay or defeat. It was all smiles and no cries, the TOM is a race that brings people together and it doesn’t matter if you have a $10,000 bike or a $1000 bike, there is mutual respect and camaraderie between everyone.

Would like to thank Paul Demers, Cliff Miller and all of the organizers and volunteers. Without them this race wouldn't be so special as it is. Also the TOM is the largest race in Canada.

Zoriah Miller interview

2010-06-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

www.zoriah.com

Hello Zoriah, I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. We know how busy your schedule is.

1: Too start off with could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a photojournalist specializing in documenting the human side of conflict, crisis and disasters. I have been photographing on and off since I was 15 years old and have been shooting professionally for about seven years now. Before getting back into photography I was in the field of post-disaster humanitarian aid.

2: Could you tell us what a typical week is for Zoriah Miller?

That is pretty easy in that there really is no such thing as a typical week in my life. I have had periods in which I have been through seven countries a week, and other times where I might be in one location for a couple of months. The most noticeable difference in my schedule is between times when I am shooting and times when I am editing. When I am in the field shooting I am usually wake up around five in the morning and shoot for several hours as the sun is rising. Depending on the project I may shoot indoors during the harsh daylight hours. I shoot again for several more hours around sunset, transfer my images while having a bite to eat wherever I am staying and then go to sleep so I can repeat the cycle again.

During times when I am editing I usually stay up most of the night listening to music and working on the images from my last project. I sleep late, exercise about two hours every day (which keeps my body ready for the next project) and eat lots of good food. It is so wonderful to slow down and edit after an exhausting project, but it quickly gets boring and I find myself excited for the next adventure.

3: In previous posts on your blog at www.zoriah.com you had stated that you listen to “This American Life” which is hosted by Ira Glass, which is on PRI (Public Radio International out of Chicago). Can you tell us what inspirations you get from this broadcast and what your overall opinion is of it?

Ira Glass is probably the best storyteller and journalist that has ever lived. He has come up with an ingenious way of educating people and bringing news and critical social issues to light . By letting individuals tell their own stories, he has effectively brought a human face to issues that we may otherwise remain completely detached from. Every episode of his show is filled with emotion, humor, information and life. He is a perfect example of the right way to teach people, he makes things interesting, even those things that we would rather turn our backs on. It inspires me to try to do the same with my own work.

4: Can you tell us about some of your experiences in Iraq, both good and bad?

The situation in Iraq when I was there was so incredibly difficult. The death and misery was beyond measure. I learned a lot in Iraq, probably more than anywhere else I have ever worked. I learned a lot about people, both their good sides and their ugly sides. I think the most important thing I realized there was how similar all people really are to each other. We think we are so different but in reality we are all striving for the same thing, a good life for ourselves and those who are close to us.

5: What approach do you use to be able to get up and close personal photographs of your subjects? What allows them to trust you?

I think I just try to be human. Experiencing things with your subjects, showing them that you care about them and what they are going through goes a long way in gaining their trust. I often live with the people I photograph, spend my days with them, eat with them and their families, share stories and experiences together. I think the main thing they don’t want is some guy to drive by in truck and shoot a picture out the window for their assignment. Everyone has seen this kind of thing, and of course it is one way of going about journalism, but I am more interested in going beyond that and really capturing people’s lives and struggles.

6: For a person that is an aspiring photojournalist what advice would you give them?

There is probably a lot of advice that should be given to someone making this decision. I think the most important if for people to really consider the lifestyle they are choosing. It is more than just a job, it becomes your life. I think aspiring photojournalists need to also accept that it might be different than what they picture in their minds. It is hard to really imagine what it is like to do this job, even for someone with a pretty good imagination. You wont know how it affects you until you actually do it.

I also urge people to keep themselves in check. There is a lot of unhealthy behavior among photojournalists, alcoholism, drug abuse, sex addiction, lots of failed marriages and relationships, PTSD, depression etc. I think people should have a life outside of the world of journalism. It seems that those who live completely in this world, with all of their friends in the same industry, end up a bit closed-minded and jaded, but that is just my opinion and of course there are many examples that prove otherwise.

7: What we do defines us, what do you think are some of your most definitive actions in your life?

I think the fact that that I don’t steer away from controversy has had a major effect on my life. In the short term it makes life quite difficult, sometimes nearly impossible. But in the end, if you stand by what you believe in, it seems that people respect your decisions, even if they may not agree with them.

When all is said and done I would hope that my most definitive action would be my decision to help people. I hope that the photographs I take are able to educate and inspire people and that in turn benefits all humankind.

8: What kind of equipment do you use? Also what does a person need to start out as a photojournalist?

All you need to start out as a photojournalist is any device that can take a photo, including cell phone cameras, disposables and budget digital cameras. I started off my professional career with a 6-megapixel consumer camera and you can still see many images I took with it in my portfolio. People need to spend more time working on their skills as photographers and less time buying equipment. Once you start making money with your pictures, go out and buy the best gear you can afford, but until then, don’t blame your camera when your shots don’t come out good.

9: Who was your mentor growing up? Who inspired you to be who you are today?

My photographic mentors have been Chris Walton, Ami Vitale and Chadwick Tyler is now helping me with a new direction in my work. I think we should all have as many mentors as we possibly can, and be mentors to as many as we possibly can.

10: What was your first camera?

Nikon FG

11: If you were a Sports Photographer, what sports would you like to photograph?

I am not at all a fan of sports, except the more exotic ones which I like to participate in but really don’t like to watch. I enjoy skydiving, scuba diving and motorcycle racing but have never photographed any of them seriously.

12: You use a Mac or PC?

I can use both but I own Macs and recommend them to anyone and everyone.

13: Who are some of your favorite Photographers of today, and who are some of your favorite Photographers of the past?

My favorite photojournalists are Nachtwey and Salgado, for art/fashion photography I adore Merkley??? and Chadwick Tyler. I like contemporary photographers much more than those who shot in the past. Although there are some amazing photos taken over the decades, I think photographers now are much more prolific and produce much more interesting work.

14: In your opinion what would bring peace between Westerners and groups like ‘Taliban and Al Qaeda?

I think the whole “Do unto others…” way of thinking may help a lot. Generally speaking, war does not usually bring peace.

15: You have seen some amazing things in your travels, what are some of the most impressive things you have seen?

Probably the most impressive thing that I have seen and continue to see is the kindness and generosity of those who have absolutely nothing. Seeing people take care of their neighbors when they are in need is so inspiring. I think there a lot of important lessons that have been lost in western culture.

16: You have seen some horrible things in your travels as well, what are some of the things you have seen?

Death, violence, anger, revenge, hate. I think watching people starve or people stuck in impossible situations is the worst. There are so many horrible situations that in my opinion are worse than just going in and killing people, hunger and lack of medical care being the worst and most unacceptable in my book.

17: Once you arrive in a country what is the most common way your travel?

Once again, it is different with each project. Mainly, once I am actually where I need to be, I just walk. I think being on your feet and just walking around for hours is the best possible approach to photography. You miss things in vehicles and they separate you from your subjects, both of which are counterintuitive to taking good photographs.

18: Do you stay in hostels, or do you stay with locals?

I often stay with locals, in refugee camps and for the past two years have been very active with the CouchSurfing.com project, which I cant recommend enough. Of course I do stay in hostels and guesthouses too, but usually the more local ones not the tourist spots.

19: When you wake up in the morning what motivates you to keep being Zoriah the ‘Photojournalist’?

I have tried being Herman, Melvin and Oliver but none of their clothes fit so I usually just end up being myself. I am half kidding there, but the other half would like to point out that I really don’t know how to be anyone else. I think my motivations are capturing images that change and effect people. I want to produce art that makes people aware and hopefully inspires them to be better people, this is my biggest motivation.

20: Are you a five-year planner type person? If so where do you see yourself in five years? Or are you the fly by the seat of your pants type of person?

I am more of a five-minute planner type person…on a good day. I think it is important to have goals, but also to realize that things change, we change and things change us. It is good to be flexible and follows ones heart, wherever it may point that particular day, week, month, year etc.

At the moment my goal is to continue my photojournalism, but merge it more with art, fashion etc in order to make it more interesting and accessible. I have always thought of my work as more art than journalism, and I want to continue in that direction and explore new ideas. When all is said and done I hope that I have left something behind that is truly unique.

21: We know that you dignify yourself with showing the truth with your photos, what made you decide to be different and not like everyone else?

I think most photojournalists goals are to show the truth, at least they should be. For me it was more a matter of showing what was important to me instead of what was important to a publication which exists as a commercial enterprise. Usually what I find in the field is far more interesting than anything I could have thought of on my own, so I try to just go and document what exists, not my preconceived ideas.

22: What are some of your favourite publications that you like to read? (Online or magazines)

I don’t read any print publications regularly. I look through the pictures when I am on an airplane and that’s about it. Online I explore lots of different sites and like to just explore all things new and interesting. I will usually have a favorite for a month or so and then find something else I like. During the last year I have really enjoyed visiting the PhotoPhilanthropy site. They have done such a good job and it seems like every month they are expanding their boundaries and doing new and amazing things. I recommend that anyone who has not yet visited the site go and spend a couple of hours exploring it.

23: If you had to do it all over again would you change anything?

24: What are your top 5 photographs that you like? (Doesn’t have to be your own photographs)

I would have a hard time choosing five photos. If you take a look at the photographers I mentioned about, you will find at least five from each of them that I truly adore.

25: What are some of the most difficult photos you have had to take? (Emotionally or physically difficult)

Photographing people who have just lost loved ones is always very difficult, as is photographing people who are dying. Physically every project has difficult physical aspects to it, from trekking into remote regions to navigating rubble and dangerous areas.

26: What do you have planned for your near future?

I am teaching several workshops in the fall and have a few projects of my own that I am working on. There is never a lack of work or ideas for new projects, so I will just continue to follow my heart.

27: Why are you a Humanitarian Photographer? Besides making a living at it, why do you do it?

Well I sure don’t do it for the money! I think I would probably make more working at McDonalds than I do doing this, if you look at how much time I put into it and how much money goes into plane tickets, equipment etc.

I do it because I believe that it makes a difference. I believe that the people I shoot know that I am there to tell their stories and to help them, and they find comfort in that. I also think that people are affected by the images. I get a lot of emails and positive feedback that people are affected by what they see…this keeps me going.

28: Have been met with so many obstacles that you feel like giving up?

Yeah, sometimes daily actually. In the end though it seems like too much work to give up, then I would have to do a bunch of interviews talking about why I quit. For now it is easier to just keep going. Ha!

29: What is the most disgusting thing you have ever had to eat?

Oh, I think people are most grossed out about the partially formed duck fetuses they have in Asia. Sometimes I can eat them with without problems but the last time I tried I gagged and threw it in the street.

30: Where is your favorite place to eat?

Well, they just went out of business a couple of months ago, but Doyers in NYC was always my favorite place. I was lucky and ended up there on their last night in business and took a bunch of photos of the owners and everyone that worked there. It was like home for me, even when I went away for two years straight once they had my table for me when I came back and remembered my order.

I also like Rice a lot in NYC. They have some of the most unique, delicious and healthy dishes I have found anywhere.

I would like thank Zoriah for taking the time to do this interview, and I wish him all of the best for his future endeavours. To read more about Zoriah goto www.zoriah.com

Interview with Alannah Myles

2010-02-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

Since I have started my blog I have focused on athletes of both genders. I have started to mix it up and add a legendary musician.

Hello Alannah, I really appreciate you doing this interview. To start off could you tell us a little about yourself? Where did you grow up, where are you living now, etc?

Alannah Myles Bio

Alannah Myles is grateful to have been lauded by many as a powerful influence for singers, songwriters and recording artists - touring internationally, winning a Grammy for best rock vocalist and selling millions of records. Alannah has met every challenge an artist can be dealt with a great tenacity and love for the music that continues to motivate her.

Alannah was born and grew up in Toronto listening to FM radio stations which introduced her to more ecclectic styles of music. She studied to become a graphic artist, splitting time in Buckhorn, Ontario where she learned to ride and spent her early years competing as an equestrian on the Ontario A Circuit, competing in Canada's prestigious Royal Winter Fair prior to deciding that music was her calling. Acting & modelling income paid for early demo tapes attempting to get signed but prevented her from being regarded as a recording artist so she independently financed her first 3 songs with the help of collaborator Christopher Ward who helped manage her career to international success.

The 'Alannah Myles' first self titled album (1989) produced four Top 40 hits, “Love Is”, “Lover of Mine”, and “Still Got This Thing”, as well as the number one international smash, “Black Velvet”, which she won a Grammy award for best female rock performance, along with several Juno Awards, a Diamond award for sales in excess of 1,000,000 in Canada - the only artist who still retains this status for her debut record. ASCAP awarded the song a 'Millionaire Award' in 2005 for over 5 million radio plays of “Black Velvet” in the USA. SOCAN awarded the songs, “Black Velvet” and “Lover Of Mine” each with an award for over 100,000 plays in Canada in 2006 with her #1 hit song “Instead Of A Kiss” to follow.

Her follow-up album; Rockinghorse, (1993) received a Grammy nomination for it's title track and three Canadian Juno Awards. After the sale of over six million records, Alannah concluded her alliance with Atlantic Records signing on with Miles Copeland's Ark 21 Records to release her fourth record Arrival (1997), which had the top 40, hit Bad 4 You. She also released THE VERY BEST OF ALANNAH MYLES (2000) containing hits from all four albums including the beautiful, newly recorded Linda Ronstadt cover Long, Long Time.

After an eight year songwriting hiatus Alannah has re-emerged, with a newly recorded album entitled Black Velvet in order to re-connect with her millions of fans. Black Velvet contains brand new studio recordings along with Black Velvet 2009, a new studio recording with a contemporary arrangement of her classic hit. Executive produced and financed by Alannah, produced by A Rival co-producer Mike Borkosky with help from gifted Veronica Ferraro in Paris, France and mixed by renown producer Terry Brown, Black Velvet was released in Europe and Canada in 2008 and in USA, 2009 receiving accolade from both new and established fans around the globe.

QUOTES:

“A good song lives on til well after we're gone. It has the power to inspire others and move hearts without their even being fully aware."

"Though I never realized it until years later, my art had become a direct reflection of the way I felt about instant fame. Though I was and still seem to have been lauded respect for the accolade my music created, I sure had alot to learn that I was in too much of a hurry to hear. I eventually I learned to use what fame brought me as a weapon against all that is false and low."

God put me on this planet to accomplish a certain amount of things.

"Right now, I'm so far behind, I can never die!"

ALANNAH MYLES

To get started I would like to ask you what got you interested in music?

As a small child of 5 I always sang. It came naturally to me and I envisioned thousands of people watching and listening tome sing. I picked up my mother's classical guitar at 11 and taught myself to play. At first I could not play bar chords and because it was difficult to learn other artists songs, I wrote my own.

For me, I learned to play the guitar as a child and my Uncle was my inspiration. Who was your musical inspiration, and why?

Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, early Elton John, Beatles, Stones, Lovin' Spoonful, CCR, Mavis staples, The Staples SIngers, Aretha Franklin, Anne Peebles, early Tina Turner, Sam Cooke, 4 Tops, AC/DC, T Rex, Jennifer Warnes, Linda Ronstadt, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, it is a very long list and it continues to grow.

Could you tell us what happens on a usual day for Alannah Myles?

I am self managed. I have an assistant who answers regular fan requests but it is I who must respond to no less than two or three hundred booking requests per year. Only 10 - 20 of them actually materialize from clients, promoters or agents who are legitimately interested. I have suffered trauma due to spinal injury from chyropractic abuse and have been healing holistically without medication for the last 6 years. Miraculously, with a great deal of physio therapy I am able to walk and my health is slowly improving. My voice has never been stronger.

What is your type of music you listen to for enjoyment?

I listen to no music when I am not creating my own. I surround myself with silence. I prefer the sound of oceans or wildlife & nature to anyone's expression of music. There is alot of music out there and most of it is unfortunately derivative and uninspiring. I must turn to my memory banks and call on the inspiration of my favourite artists that are filed somewhere in my brain. I live a very quiet life in a very beautiful place overlooking Lake Ontario in Toronto, Canada. This, and my vast touring experiences are what inspire me.

Have you seen any good movies lately?

I've seen many movies. I am a movie freak. I subscribe to pay television in Canada and see all of the movies released to cable. Thank God for movies and their makers who respect the use of music in them as imperative, otherwise I would suffer stagnation.

Do you have any interest in sports? Are you watching any of the Olympics?

I am an equestrian and have enjoyed showing hunters and jumpers since I was a young girl. Presently I am not in the position of being able to afford a horse but eventually that will change and I will live on a farm surrounded by horses.

I have enjoyed watching the Olympics. IMAO I believe the U.S. male gold medalist for figure skating Evan Lysacek was totally worthy of his win as it was the strongest and least flawed performance of them all despite how many times he twirled on the ice. It is a tremendous misfortune that the lack of snow and warm climate has made for such flawed slopes for the downhill skiing events.

Are you computer savvy, if so do you use Mac or PC?

Do birds fly? I may be a bull in a China shop but I am proficient enough to accomplish all that I need to on my Mac, personally supervising all of my online accounts.

What is on your bucket list?

That's a tall order. I have already accomplished, in one third of my life what most wish for in a whole lifetime. Good health privacy and and peace of mind are most important to me. Though I have not ruled it out as a possibility, I gave up on finding the man of my dreams a long time ago.

What is one of the best days of your life so far?

Learning how to stand up for myself by guiltlessly saying No!

What keeps you getting up in the morning everyday?

I am a very enthusiastic and energetic person but it's usually my not so little, 9 month old Bengal kitty, Gabriel that either keeps me sleeping through my mornings, or up really early jumping on my head to play fetch the Q-Tip.

What musical instruments can you play?

Acoustic guitar, very poorly.

Do you have any preconcert rituals?

Yes, I like to remain quiet and calm and do not like meeting anyone until after I've played so that the energy I deliver to my audience is my own. I take baths in, or burn lavander, geranium and eucalyptus essential oils in a lamp to sooth my vocal chords and miraculously prevent any possibility of losing my voice. Then I warm up my vocal cords in a very low key to songs like Amazing Grace while putting my make up on in my hotel room.

If you were a bag of chips what kind of chips would you be?

Popcorn or sour creme & onion Quaker Oats rice puffs or Cheetos Cheesies.

Do you really think that KD Lang has a striking resemblance to Wayne Newton?

Ha, ha, you've been reading my blogs. Yes, in fact I do. Particularly in that white tux worn by all of the men in the Canadian Winter Olympic parade. I do, however recognize her profound passion and technique as a singer but her voice does not touch my soul in the same way as perhaps Justin Timberlake's did in his version of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah which both of them recently performed live in North America, or Susan Boyle for that matter.

Where has music taken you in the world?

I have been almost everywhere including Brazil but not the rest of South America which I would still like to see and south Africa, India, Turkey or Malaysia.

Do you have any pets?

My beloved blue fish George died after 2 and a half years so I replaced him with my Bengal cat, Gabriel. He should last for 20 years and has become more like a scrappy little racoon or a dog. I cannot eat a meal without setting a place at the table for him or it becomes a stressful meal with him crawling all over me. He loves human food.

Do you have any new endeavours for the near future?

I am in no hurry until I find the right collaborators creatively as well as financially to record a 1920's styled jug band blues record with pop & jazz overtones. Ideally, I would like to win a lottery, law suit or an inheritance and finance it myself so I am able to work without the stress caused by record company interference. Since the beginning I have A& R'd my own records alone or with the aid of my collaborators.

Do you anticipate any new albums or songs coming out?

I have been working on a video for Trouble, a song from my currently released CD called Black Velvet. It will usher in my blues record quite nicely and give audiences a very clear idea of what I am about to embark on. I'm sure it will also attract all the right elements to enforce what I envision creatively.

We all make mistakes in life. Are you one that looks at tomorrow, or someone who dwells on the past?

No time to dwell in the past. Learn from mistakes but quickly move on to more positive things.

For me if I am having a bad day I like to eat vanilla icecream. What helps you get through a bad day?

Sheer determination, iron will and a voluminous spirit. If all else fails, shopping.

If you had to do it all over again would you change anything, or do it all the same?

I accept all that had to happen to get me where I am today, even though I admit I am guilty of having sabotaged my efforts on more than one occasion.

The program ‘Own the Podium’ has proved to be a success for the Canadian athletes in 2010 Olympics. Do you think they should make a program for musicians like ‘Own the Music Charts’?

The music industry is in serious danger of becoming a circus. It needs all the help it can get!

I would really like to thank you again for doing this interview. If you have anymore that you would like to add, feel free to do so.

You're most welcome. All the best and thank you for your intelligent questions.

Regards,
Alannah Myles

Interview with Pia Sundstedt

2009-12-12T15:07:00.000-08:00

To start off with could you tell us a little about yourself? What do you do, how old are you,who do you race for etc? Not many people know about you in North America so you need to really fill them in please.

My name is Pia Sundstedt 34 years old. I was born in Kokkola, Finland, a town approximately 300km south of the arctic circle. Not really a place where you think people are cycling. In fact I grew up on cross country skis. That was the most convenient way to get to school and from school back home. All spare time was spent on the skis, imitating the successful cross country skiers and ski jumpers of the nation.

Kokkola also happens to be a ‘cycling region’. A few good cyclist during decades has kept the ‘cycling spirit’ up in town. The club I represent, Gamlakarleby if, has a cross country skiing, biathlon, track and field, orienteering and cycling section. As a member I automatically wanted to try all sports. I got my first road bike 1989 from the club. That is when I knew cycling is ‘the thing’ I want to do.

1. What got you started into mountain biking?

It was a coincidence. I was professional on the road from 1996-2002, in the Netherlands, Italy, Canada (intersports) and Norway. I ended my career and finished my studies in political sciences at Åbo Akademi University in Finland.

In 2005 I moved to Germany and was looking for a job. I found a job as a ‘Tour guide’ in Black forest, southwest of Germany. People wanting to spend a different kind of vacation can join this kind of planned tours both with mtb and road cycle. This work kept me in shape;-)

In summer I took part in a mtb marathon in Willingen. I won the race and the woman in second place was the current leader of the marathon world cup. That surprised me and I phoned the Finnish cycling union. I needed a licence. 3 weeks later I won the European championships in mtb marathon. That is when my mountain bike career began.

2. How old were you when you first learned to ride a bike?

I think I was much better in cross country skiing as riding a bike. I was using a bike with 3 wheels for quite a long I think. I think I learned to ride a bike the summer I turned 5, but I am not sure J

3. What was your first bicycle?

I have had many bikes, but my first race bicycle was an orange coloured Crescent from the club. I was proud. And the bicycle was so fast with those thin tires.

4. What was your first race, and how did you do?

My first race was in 1989 and it was a time trial. I won that race.

5. I know you have done stage races in the past because I have seen results of your races. Which races have you done, and when a partner was required who was your partner?

I have done many stage races. On the road I did Tour de France 3 times and Giro d’Italia 4 times, just to mention the 2 most known ones…

In mtb my first experience of a stage race was Cape Epic in South Africa. In Europe I have done Trans Germany and Trans Alp.

My partner has always been Alison Sydor. A great rider! She has so much experience. I think we also make a good team. It is important to know each others weaknesses and strengths. Only then you can be successful as a team.

6. What do you enjoy most about mountain biking?

I like being out in the nature, feel the silence and reach places where you normally never go

7. Which do you prefer a hard tail, or full suspension?

I prefer a hard tail I think one reason for that is my road background where a stiff frame/bike always was of importance.

8. What do you do for offseason training?

I like the off season because I can do all kind of sports. In wintertime I do a lot of cross country skiing. No wonder, I grew up on skis, it is just part of me.

I also run, swim, I do core stability training. Also in summertime I try not only to cycle. I think it is not good to have a too monotone training.

9. What is your prerace meal?

I do carbo-loading before the race. Usually potatoes and pasta.

10. What are your greatest accomplishments?

On the road: World cup in Montreal and Obermebrach, SUI 1^st and overall 2^nd in 2000. Olympic games in Sydney 21^st.

3 stage wins at Giro d’Italia

MTB: European Champion marathon 2005.

World cup marathon winner 2006, 2007, 2008.

World championships marathon bronze medal 2007 and 2008

11. Where has racing taken to you in the world? What other countries have you been to?

I have seen so many countries. I think it is impossible for me to start and make a list of all the countries. Would need an entire day for it. I was road professional in the Netherlands, Italy, Canada and Norway. With the teams we took part in races all over the world.

12. Where would you like to race that you haven't raced at yet?

Olympic games in London

13. What would your dream vacation be?

Sailing around the world

14. I have also heard that you are successful ski racing.. Could you tell us about that?

I took part in my first race when I was 5 years old. I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was in the village where my grandmother lives. I wore a red skiing suit and the biggest concern was how to ski the right track. I did not want to go the wrong way, because that would mean loosing time. So my mother promised to follow me in a safe distance and shout to me if I was going the wrong way. I won the race, but at the price giving ceremony I was so shy that I did hardly got up and fetch my prize, a silver spoon. That spoon has today a special place among my world cup trophies.

I continued racing in skiing until I was 18. That is when I chose to concentrate only on cycling.

I still use cross country skiing as training and the last years I have been taking part in Europe’s biggest long distance races.

15. What would be your toughest race you have ever been in?

There are many races that have been both mentally and physically very though. It is hard to mention one single race. In mtb marathons the race distances are so long. There you have many ups and downs and you have to learn how to keep your emotions under control so that your performance doesn’t get affected.

If I do have to mention one race, it was definitely my first mtb stage race, Cape Epic in 2008. There were moments I just wanted to give up, but the great support from my partner Alison made me survive the adventure.

16. What other accomplishments do you hope to achieve in skiing and racing bikes?

Skiing is just for fun. I have no ambitions and it is in cycling that I have my goals and dreams. I have won the XCM World cup jersey and the XCM European champion jersey. The only jersey that still is missing is the XCM world champion jersey. This dream keeps me going.

17. Did you have any mentors, or older siblings that you looked up to when growing up? (as in someone giving you inspiration?)

My coach Tom Andtbacka is a very important person. He thought me everything about training. He helped me a lot to reach this level and to stay on this level.

18. Do you have a five year plan, or ten year plan, or anything like that?

I remember the plan we made 1994. For 2000 we painted the Olympic rings. That became reality.

Now I don’t have any plans. I think it is good to have 5 and 10 year plans as a young athlete. You can’t reach the top at once. An endurance athlete needs years and years of training.

Now I only pick the fruits of all the training I have done the last 20 years.

19. For the young people reading this do you have any advice for them? Like as in training or life style they should follow to be successful at XC racing or skiing?

There is no short cut if you want to reach the top. It requires a lot of work and many years of training. Its an honest occupation, compared to many other jobs. You have talent, you train, you are strong, you win.

Still young athletes should not forget that sport is built on a very weak ground. An injury can destroy almost the existent of an athlete if there is no security to fall down on. That can for example be the possibility to study or to already have a profession.

20. Have you ever thought about doing some stage races in North America like as in the TransRockies, BC Bike Race etc with Alison Sydor?

For sure, Alison still has to show me her training area

21. Do you have a pre race ritual? (like as in meals, music etc?)

I always have the racing gear put out on a chair the evening before. I don’t want to have any kind of stress in the morning. I am then very concentrated and have my thoughts already in the race and in different scenarios what can happen during the race.

22. Racing bikes what do you think your strong points are, and what are you weaknesses?

My strengths are definitely climbing. As an ex roadie my technical skills are not the best ones, but I am working on it.

23. What drives you to get up in the morning and go on epic rides?

It is a lifestyle. I can’t live without sports.

24. If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Nothing. I have had good and bad moments, but from everything you can learn

25. Have you seen any good movies lately?

I like the movies from Aki Kaurismäki. His movies are very special, but explains very well the Finnish society.

On behalf of everyone that reads this blog and myself, I would like to thank Pia for taking the time to do this interview. It has been a pleasure indeed.

New post about strength

2009-11-20T18:55:00.000-08:00

It has been sometime since I have posted anything, but I thought I would share something with you all. I know at one point in your lives cancer has touched you or someone close to you. But for those that haven't experienced it this makes it a little bit more real!

Here is the link I would like to share with you..

http://gallery.kerrymansfield.com/aftermath/

24 questions with Shonny Vanlandingham

2009-09-16T19:38:00.001-07:00

Asking Shonny to do this interview was one of the harder things I have done. Not just because she is one of the best female mountain bikers of all time, but because of her stature and what she has accomplished in her life already at such a young age. This will show you what hard work and determination can bring you.

Photo credit to Rich Cruise

1. What was your first bicycle?

XR75 Honda and a Pink Huffy with knobby tires.

2. Do you remember the first time you rode a bicycle by yourself? Did you teach yourself to ride, or did someone show you? How impressed were you with yourself after riding it the first time?

My brother got me going on the XR75 Honda and then jumped off the back. I could ride it fine but couldn't put my feet down to stop at 5 yrs old. When I was ready to stop I jumped off and ghost rode it to a fall.

3. When growing up who was your mentor? (who did you idolize growing up?)

My older Brother, Terry, since he was a great athlete and a nice guy.

4. Where do you see yourself in ten years time?

Still processing beans on my Kona coffee farm, wahinefarms.com

5. I have read that you have a place in Colorado and in Hawaii, what is the main reason you have the two places?

I started going to Hawaii in the winter 12 yrs ago chasing the warm climate for training. Now I am in love with both the ocean and the mountains (Durango, CO).

Photo credit to Nils Nilsen

6. How good are your coffee beans?

100% Kona coffee is consistently rated #1 for gourmet coffee. Along with the ideal climate for growing the coffee bean you have to have a quality roast to bring out the best flavor. We have both at Wahine Farms.

7. What kind of nicknames have you had growing up?

'Fathead' (my Brother started that!), and 'Money' (from college basketball teammates)

8. What is on your ipod for music?

A variety. I enjoy some aspect of all genres.

9. Have you seen any good movies lately?

Man on Wire

10. Do you prefer hardtail or full suspension for mountain bikes?

Orbea Alma hardtail for racing and Orbea Oiz or Occam full sus for play.

11. Earlier in one of my interviews Jean Ann McKirdy had made reference to ‘old-woman strength’ (http://phoyote.blogspot.com/2009/07/29-questions-with-jean-ann-mckirdy.html question #28) when I had asked her if she considered doing “RAAM” (Race Across America). When does this ‘old-woman strength’ kick in?

haha, so you're saying I'm old?? Well, I must say the older I've gotten (I am now 40) the tougher my mind has become. When you can draw on experience you bring another element to racing and training.

12. Can you for see yourself getting bored of Xterra in the years to come?

No, not really. XTERRA racing presents so many challenges with the three disciplines of swim, bike, run. To put each one together to achieve your best race is a work of art. If XTERRA ever gets mundane I'll move on to my next adventure before boredom sets in.

13. Most of the people reading this don’t know much about you, but you used to race MTB for who? What have you accomplished? Now you race Xterra which is a tough sport, what do you wish to get out of it and accomplish?

I began my pro mtb career with KHS in '99. Then raced with SoBe/Cannondale for a few years. I started with the LUNA Women's Pro Team in 2003 up to the present. I won 5 National Championship Titles over my mountain bike career (3 XC, 1 STXC and 1 Marathon). Last year, my first year of racing XTERRA full time, I was the National Champion and placed 3rd at the World Championships. I guess those years of basketball paid dividends to my running ability. My swim is a work in progress...

14. In Xterra who is your toughest competitor? (nemesis if you have one.)

Julie Dibens (England) has won the last two World Championships. And domestically, Melanie McQuaid (Canada) has a long history of XTERRA racing success.

15. If you were a bag of chips, what kind of chips would you be?

Kettle Buffalo Bleu. A touch of fire and ice. The tangy chili spice is straight on you. The hint of bleu cheese takes time to arrive, but when it does you’ll know. Alchemy like this – without anything artificial – is what makes me tick.

16. Who is your favourite Female and Male mountain bikers of all time?

Mary Hearn and Max Jones

17. Have you ever done any humanitarian work in your past or plan on it in the future?

Philanthropy is an important part of my life. I, along with two partners, created CharityMix.com which sells athlete music mixes to raise money for charities. The last two years I have been working with Mercy Medical to raise money for the Breast Cancer Center that is being built in Durango, CO, through the sale of bike jerseys, auction of an Orbea road bike, and a benefit roast from my Kona coffee farm, Wahine Farms. (wahinefarms.com) Also LUNA (of the LUNA Pro Team) is an active sponsor of the Breast Cancer Fund and its efforts to eliminate the environmental and preventable causes of the disease.

18. For me seeing smile on someone’s face because of something I have done is very satisfying. What makes you satisfied?

My 2nd cappuccino from my Pavoni every morning. Really though, see #17 above.

19. Have you ever raced the MTB stage races in the past? And if you haven’t would you ever consider doing one?

I raced the Mercury Tour that was held in Steamboat, CO, back in the day. I enjoyed the multi day sufferfest.

20. I know all riders have strong points, and weak points on the technical side or riding. What would be your strong and weak points on the mountain bike?

The broken bones I've suffered over the years are STRONGER than before. The bones I haven't broken are a WEAK point.

21. What do you think of Lance Armstrong’s comeback?

A successful comeback is always an admirable story. Now he's had two successful comebacks!

22. Being former professional boxer that had a title shot but did not win. I have always wanted to give back to the sport. I do this by photographing boxing matches and find it to be satisfying at this point in my life. What would you like to give back to the sport? Coaching, making a team etc? I could see it now ‘Team Vanlandingham’.

I do a bit of coaching already and really enjoy it.

23. Do you keep track of the racing in the MTB world anymore, or have you put it behind you and focus on Xterra?

I keep up with my mountain bike teammates and other friends racing from time to time. It's fun to be a fan.

24. What is it truly like to race for Team LunaChix?

You would think with being an all women's team, there would be some drama. Well, not true for the LUNA Pro Team. The staff has done a great job of creating a team of supportive members. Being a part of a team with philanthropic efforts brings a satisfaction that only racing would not provide.

Thanks Shonny, and I really appreciate you doing this interview. It is a great help and if we can get at least one person riding a bike because of this then I have accomplished what I wanted. Thanks again and good luck in your career. Team Luna Chix has a focus in bring more females into sports and having an athletic lifestyle, if you would like to know more about Shonny Vanlandingham, Danelle Kabush, and Catharine Pendrel here is the link to check them out.

http://teamlunachix.com/

Ryan Leech

2009-08-27T21:17:00.001-07:00

Upon arriving in Squamish on Wednesday night, I was exhausted from my marathon of driving. I drove straight to Vancouver from Edmonton with only a couple of stops for fuel and food. I was so eager to get to the coast and to Crankworx that there wasn’t anything that was going to stop me or get in my way. When I got to the outskirts of Abbortsford, British Columbia, it was rush hour, and traffic was at a standstill. It was bumper to bumper and 32 Celsius outside. It was then that I opted to drive into Abbortsford and then zigzag my way to Vancouver to avoid the heavy traffic. This plan had worked, and I went through places that I had never been to, or seen before in Vancouver. When I arrived at North Vancouver I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. The people have a different aura about them than around here. It is hard to explain, but there is something about it.

With all of the construction in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics, it made it a very slow drive from Vancouver to Squamish. Why am I complaining? The view to the west is so beautiful, who can complain? Once I had arrived in Squamish, I found my accommodations and checked in. It was a room with two double bunk beds, (shared accommodation). Beggars can’t be choosers, plus I was breaking the bank going to Crankworx to chase my dream of becoming an established sports photographer (you only live once).

Thursday I had climbed off the top bunk bed to find it raining, and apparently it had been raining all night in Squamish, and in Whistler area where Crankworx was being held. North of Whislter is Pemberton (about 50km), and it was dry. Rocky did their big release of the ‘Flatline Worldcup’ there, and they did their big media ride there as well.

If any of you haven’t been to the Squamish and Whistler area, I suggest you go. It is so beautiful, and you won’t want to come home once you have been there. Being there was spiritual to me, not sure how to explain, but it makes a person feel alive. Even with all the rain that the coast has, it can make a person feel complete.

Once I arrived in Whistler and found parking I couldn’t even see the hill or half of the town because the clouds were so low. I was trying to find the Westin hotel to get my media pass and got lost a few times. I had no idea where I was going, but I found it, and got the pass without a hitch. When leaving the Westin, I came across the Rocky Mountain bike tent which became my home base for the week. Peter Vallance and Andreas Hestler are two of the nicest people a person can meet.

Right behind the Rocky tent is a coffee shop, but for the life of me I can’t remember it's name. I had gone in to get something to eat and drink. I sat down and looked to see who was at the table next to me, and found it was Ryan Leech, the famous trials rider. One of my goals was to get some pictures of him, and to do an interview, I heard that he is a super nice guy. These events are what lead up to me meeting him, and down below is his interview. I recorded it with a sound recorder and then tediously put it to paper later when I had gotten home a week later. When I heard myself, I realized that I can talk pretty fast at times.

Hi Ryan, would you like to do an interview?

Ryan: Sure, I would be glad to. It is getting kind of cold in here.

I think they turned the AC on.

Ryan: Yeah, I thought so to, but oh well. So where are you from?

I am from Edmonton, Alberta.

Ryan: From Edmonton EH?

Where are you from?

Ryan: I am just living in Port Moody, on the south side of the city here (Vancouver). Are you staying for the whole duration of Crankworx?

I am here until Sunday.

Ryan: Yeah, I am staying right until Sunday as well.

I am staying in Squamish, and I have a friend that is a radio DJ and she had worked as a DJ in Squamish. She had said that there are lots of people hiding from the authorities in the Squamish area. What got you into trials?

Ryan: Just fun got me into it.

How old were you when you started?

Ryan: I was about 13 years old, and I am 30 now. Mountain bikes, of course, were what got me started and racing and what not that I got into first and then I discovered the trials bike. But you know it is all about fun.

Yeah it is, if you don’t have fun riding a bike, then why does a person do it?

Ryan: Yeah exactly, you got it.

Have you ever done any XC racing, or anything like that before?

Ryan: Yeah, I did a little racing XC and a little downhill racing but fell in love with trials.

Did you have any mentors when you were young?

Ryan: Lots yeah! In the biking world, Simone Ponzri was always an early influence and I continued to look up to his methods for prolonging his career and how he managed to transform his way of influencing the mountain bike world, and spreading the good word about bikes. It is my hope as my career develops to continue coming up with new ways to get as many people riding bikes as possible.

Recently, I gave your video to my girlfriend and she has started to practice trials on her mountain bike. She had said that she can’t bunny hop, or hop curbs and wondered how I did that kind of riding. She is 37 and learning to do trials on bike.

Ryan: Right on! That is perfect and it doesn’t matter how old you are, or what age you are at. Bikes are an excellent form of exercise.

What mentors do you have outside the mountain bike world?

Ryan: Well, the one person I really admire is Ken Logarf with the work he has done on integral thinking, and it is more of a philosophical kind of thing. His work is really powerful and I learned lots about the physics of a bike.

What do you like about bicycles so much and inspires you about them?

Ryan: Anytime I see anyone doing something creative, something new and pushing the boundaries; not just physically, but in every aspect of life and doing things in new ways, experimenting and taking risks, again not just physically on mountain bike, but in every way it is inspiring to see that.

How much air pressure you put in your tires on your trials bike?

Ryan: 35 to 40 psi, and I use tube tires.

Have you ever used tubeless tires for trials?

Ryan: I actually haven’t given it an honest try. I have been skeptical and there are too many weird twisting strains and torques, and would make it too easy for the bead to come off of the rim.

What was your first bicycle?

Ryan: Umm, it was actually a Norco which is ironic, and it was a mountain bike.

What would you like to achieve when you are finished trials? Do you want to do trials for the rest of your life?

Ryan: So many other things, yeah definitely it is hard to pin point just one thing because I have so many interests and there are so many things I would like to contribute. Cycling will be an important factor and it will be a vehicle for all of the things that I would like to do. Not necessarily trials, but just riding bikes in general.

Kind of like Andreas Hestler and how he now works for Rocky Mountain bikes?

Ryan: Who knows? We will see, and there are lots of ideas.

How many events do you do in a year on average?

Ryan: Usually I am up to a 200 or so trials shows in a year mixed in with all of the other stuff that goes along with it. It keeps me pretty busy.

How far have you traveled?

Ryan: All over the world I guess! I try to keep things closer to home though, in the Pacific NW for the majority of my shows. But if something good comes up and I can make good use of my time when I am over seas, then I will make a trip like that.

Who is your favorite downhiller?

Ryan: Umm, oh boy! Since I got his pin here it would have to be Peaty (Steve Peat).

He is a good guy hey?

Ryan: Yes! Good times, and he keeps it fun which is what I like to see. It is easy to take these things too seriously. Although he does take it very seriously, it’s not over the top, it is still light hearted. It is still about fun, but it just can’t be all about goofing around having fun, and you you can’t be all about being too serious. You gotta have both, but it has to be balanced, and then it is a winning combination. For Peaty, he has a very successful combination, and it works. For all those young racers out there, remember to keep it fun and don’t stress yourself out about every race and getting the best spot. Just have some nice clean fun and that will pay off in the long run.

How many times have you broken limbs?

Ryan: For me none, but I have blown my knee and that is about the worst of it.

Who is your favorite XC mountain bike racer?

Ryan: For me I remember Juli Furtado, I had pictures of her on my wall and she was an early XC racer. I also remember John Tomac back in the day. They were the early influences. I don’t follow it too closely anymore, but it is so incredible, the level the athletes are at today. The competition is fierce these days. People are obviously having to push it a little bit further each year.

What is your pre-trials meal?

Ryan: Nothing too special, and I just try to eat healthy and balanced. Just good wholesome food, and nothing too heavy.

How many hours a week do you train?

Ryan: Again, it is nothing too specific, and I am not too scientific about it. I just ride when I feel like riding, and I do cross training. The cross training I do is yoga. It has really helped me with the power and flow style I have in trials. It is going to prolong my riding career and keep my body feeling good.

What was the happiest day of your life?

Ryan: Oh! I don’t think I can pick one, I have lots of things to reminisce on. It is day by day, as well though, at the same time.

How many bikes do you own?

Ryan: I always keep two trials bikes that are identical. I have an old mountain bike that does everything that I need for my trail riding, and I have a commuter flat bar road bike that I do my errands on.

Does your better half ride?

Ryan: She does absolutely! We mountain bike together, we do trials together.

Do you have children yet?

Ryan: No, just two nephews. One of them has a perfect bunny hop. It is pretty cool, and he is six years old. He was going over my highjump bar which is a good ten inches I would say. Yep, it is pretty RAD.

For young riders what other advice do you have for them?

Ryan: Racing mountain bikes for so long, and when we would ride downhill there were no shuttles or chairlifts, and big bikes that have a big gear. We rode uphill to get our downhill. Riding single track uphill is actually really an enjoyable part of the sport, and it is actually really challenging. Also, be creative in your riding and mix it up in a way that is fulfilling to you; makes you pumped. Don’t just do what your friends are doing. You are the next generation, so progress and push the sport in any direction you want. Get creative and come up with some new ways of riding and keep it safe. I have a show coming up so I should probably get cruising.

I will come later and take some pictures.

Ryan: Thanks for the chat Patrick, nice interview.

Stefan Widmer

2009-08-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

Since doing this interview Stefan and teammate Marty Lazarski won the open mens category of the TransRockies stage race. They won every day of the 7 in the event. Good job you two!

Hello Stefan, and thanks for doing this interview. Could you please tell me a little about yourself? What team do you race for, where do you live etc?

I am a 25 year old male with dual Swiss and Canadian citizenship. I am in possession of some killer flowing natty dreadlocks that have given my pea sized head some great volume for the past 8 years. I believe it was this ‘hair do’ that contributed to my nicknames of Salty Head or Salt Lick. For the past few years, I have been working hard on riding my push pedal bicycle faster and better then everyone else over rocks and roots and up and down hills. Currently I ride for the Rocky Mountain Factory Team, and have a choice of two weapons, either my new killer light carbon Vertex Team hardtail, or the time proven full suspension scandium Element Team bike.

I grew up on the West side of Vancouver and have for the past few winters moved down in Tucson, Arizona where I get my winter miles in under the scorching desert sun, while always thinking of the short dark rainy days that I’m missing back home...

1. How did you get started in mountain biking?

Started mountain biking on the north shore where I built up my West Coast technical prowess that all else envy; hucking big, riding skinny’s, pinning berms... Dude, Man, it was knarly!

Then, I got into the dex and started racing in the highschool series. Jamie Douglas was the s#*t and I wanted to be fast like him. My bike got progressively lighter and my tires progressively thinner.

Stefan at the Canmore Canada Cup

2. Do you remember the first time you were able to ride with no one holding onto the bike behind you, or without training wheels?

Yep, on my front boulevard on a pink hand me-down-banana seat cruiser from my sisters. It was a sweet ride and I was already riding like a champ!

3. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Probably still in school, seems to be a bit of an endless journey… Also hopefully still riding for fun.

4. Why did you choose mountain biking?

It combines raw fitness as well as technical skill. You can’t get away with only one or the other. I also like the fact that the strongest man on the day wins. It’s not a scam like road-racing where you can hide your weaknesses and some random guy can win. If you’re having a bad day in the dirt, there is no hiding it, you are completely exposed.

5. What does it take to become an Elite mountain biker?

I think we all share some similar traits with degenerate gamblers. We seem to be missing the ‘sensible’ side of our noggin that tells us to quite when we’re ahead. We all seem to be willing to go into debt to try and fulfill our goals.

No but really, it’s a complete lifestyle, from what you do when you’re on the bike to what you do when you’re off the bike, to what you put in your body and how you strengthen your mind. Really, a complete 24 h/day, 7 days/week job that embodies physical, mental and environmental challenges.

6. If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be, and why?

Dead or Alive: It would have to be Bob Marley and/or Ernesto Guevara. They are both people that strongly believed in their values and went about to spread their message and walk their talk.

7. What is your favourite color of socks to wear?

Can’t say I have one… I have some cool Sombrio socks with the rasta stripes on the cuff that I like but then again, I am told that white, tall socks are more ‘euro’ and for some reason, North-American cyclists seem to have this hard-on with being as ‘euro’ as possible.

At the finish of the Edmonton Canada Cup

8. What are your favourite pastimes?

I’m a big hockey fan. Love watching the Canucks but never played the game myself. I hope to change that this year.

I’m a big fan of good music. Spend a ton of time discovering new groups…

I love to cook, and I pretty much like anything of high quality when it comes to food and beverages. For instance I really like my quality coffee, quality beers, quality cheeses, chocolate… I could go on for a while…

Also, I got my motorcycle license last year and want to get a dual sport bike to play around with this winter.

9. What is your prerace meal?

4 pieces of Bagel/bread with creamcheese, cheese, ketchup, and an egg on 3 of them, and only egg white on the 4^th. That is eaten and finished with 3 hours to go to the start. Nothing after that until I have a gel on the start line.

10. Are you a cat person, or dog person?

Dog for sure. Cats are useless, annoying, and I’m allergic to them.

11. What is currently on your favourite playlist on your ipod?

I’m listening to a lot of Canadian indie rock/pop music like Metric or Shout Out Out Out Out, but I’m also getting into the DJ sets with the likes of MSTRKRFT and Girl Talk.

12. Do you use Mac, or PC?

Mac all the way. People who are still stuck on PC’s haven’t seen the light and need to get with the time. And people who actually say that PC’s are still better, are in serious denial.

13. What is a typical week day for Stefan?

In the fall, it’s full on school and work but when it comes to the training/racing season, the days seem to fill up awfully quickly, while many may think that I really don’t do all too much…

So, my days start with a leisure morning. Rushed mornings are a no-go for me. I would rather get less sleep but have time for my large fruit bowl and a cup or three of quality espresso coffee. After I’ve checked my email no less then a dozen times, surfed my favorite websites and feel adequately informed on the latest news in the cycling and hockey world, it’s ride time. After training, I usually make a smoothy, have a nap, then it’s time to strap on the feed bag again for dinner; meat, veggies and a huge salad. Movie/TV while stretching is usually in order for the evening.

Pretty much the bottom line is that when I’m not on my bike, the majority of the remaining time is spent either preparing, eating or thinking about my next meal. Food is King.

14. How many hours a week do your ride?

Anywhere from 10-29 hours. Longer in the winter and as racing/intensity or fatigue sets in, it drops down.

15. You have done stage races in the past, could you tell us about them, and how you placed?

Yep, have done Trans-Rockies twice. Both times one of the hardest races I’ve done and both times swore that I would never do it again! Alas, I always seem to go back for more…

For the first time in 2006 with Matt Green, where I got my spot by replacing his injured partner with a week’s notice. We finished 4^th that year. Then for the second time last year with Marty Lazarski where we finished 3^rd. I was quite pleased with that 3^rd place finish considering it was widely considered to be not only the hardest route they have ever done but also by far the deepest field racing it.

I am currently answering these questions on my laptop in the back of the Rocky Mountain Truck as we’re trailing a big 26 foot 5^th wheel up to the start of my 3^rd attempt at the race. I am racing it again with Marty and will once again go for the elusive top step that has escaped me.

Edmonton Canada Cup

16. What is your favourite trail to ride?

It’s gotta be anything on Hornby Island but if I was forced to chose one of the trails, it would be ‘The Way’ into the new cut of ‘Spasm Chasm’. A big shout out to the Hornby Island trail crew who keep those trails in mint condition year round!

17. What is the scariest thing you have ever done?

I can’t think of anything at the moment… my mom would probably know better from the sketchy stories of my trips that she hears…

18. Do you prefer carbon or aluminum?

Carbon’s sweet as long as you can keep the rubber side down.

19. What is your favourite tire to use, and tube or tubeless?

Favorite all around tire would be the MAXXIS Crossmark. Some sweet Swiss crosses down the center ridge, pretty much a formula for success! For XC racing I run non-UST with Stan’s instead of a tube but for this upcoming week at TR, it’ll be nothing but Tubeless UST action for us!

20. What is the most defining point in your career so far?

Hucking big back in 1997 off a 12 foot rock on my RM6. I was so smooth you couldn’t even hear me land. It was a thing of beauty, pretty much an expression of art.

Edmonton Canada Cup

21. What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment in life?

Being born. Without that act, I wouldn’t have even gotten the opportunity to strive for any further accomplishments.

22. Greatest accomplishment on a bike?

See above #20. Dude, Man, it was ‘sick’!

23. Which do you prefer hardtail or full suspension?

At a reasonable weight, I would always choose a full suspension.

24. Who is your favourite male and female mountain bikers?

Male Rider: Thomas Frishknecht

Female Rider: Katerina Nash

25. Who are your favourite male and female actors?

I didn’t grow up with TV, so I’m not to ‘hip’ with the pop culture, but Al Pacino comes to mind, and I can’t seem to forget Paz Vega.

26. Have you seen any movies lately?

The Hangover… - hilarious!

27. If you were a bag of chips, what kind of chips would you be?

Kettle chips are pretty delicious… anything thick, crunchy and salty are pretty tasty!

Edmonton Canada Cup

28. What was your toughest race?

I would say Trans-Rockies 2008 but I think it’s hard to pin it down to the ONE ‘toughest’ race. After each race, you feel like you just complete THE hardest race… Every race hurts so much that to be in this line of work, you’ve pretty much got to be a masochist.

29. What do you think about Lance Armstrong’s comeback?

Sham. He should Go Home.

The sport needs to move on from the ‘Armstrong’ era, which was too long to begin with in my opinion. Don’t get me started…

30. If you could thank anyone for where you are today, who would it be?

My parents, for without them, I wouldn’t be here obviously… but when in comes to sport related ‘Shout outs’, I’ll save them for when I’ve accomplished my goals and are satisfied with my achievements.

31. Who is your biggest fan?

Haha… fans? how to answer that one… well… I’m gonna have to go with one of my close high school friends. N-TJ who has nothing to do with cycling nor any knowledge or background with it, but always seems to find out on his own volition better then anyone else what I’m up to and how I’ve done.

This is especially impressive as my non-cycling friends know that I pretty much pull a ‘disappearing act’ during my season as I’m either on the road or unable to partake in their ‘questionable’ choice of activities... yet, he stays on top of things…

Crankworx!

2009-08-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

I think this is Berrecloth (but could be wrong)

Rocky Flatline Worldcup 2010 edition

Crankworx was such an awesome event. I am really thankful that you were able to get me a media pass, and the yellow wristband. Thank you Ryan, it was greatly appreciated. Here is my little blurb for you down below. On February 13th, 1999, I fought for the Super Heavyweight Championship of the world on the De La Hoya/Quartey undercard. The electricity and energy at the Thomas & Mack Center, however, was no match to this year's Crankworx. It was the most amazing event, and I would do it all again tomorrow. The people, the atmosphere, and everything about Crankworx is awesome. I just wish more people knew about it. Most of my photography experience is in XC mountain bike racing, MMA, boxing, the occasional wedding and studio work. This was all new to me, and it was an excellent learning experience. Watching the photography great, Sterling Lorence, in action was satisfaction enough let alone watching Crankworx. Although I had to adjust to the speed of the racers and contestants in the slopestyle event, I was able to get some stellar photographs. Special thanks to Geoff Gulevich, Andreu Lacondeguy and Cam McCaul for their performances which enabled me to get some awesome photographs. Mountain bike events are so fun to be at. They always have such nice people, be it competitors or spectators. I am very thankful that I could be there, see you next year.

Brian Lopes (Giant Dual Slalom winner)

Geoff Gulevich (Team Rocky Mountain)

I just wish more people knew about it. Most of my photography experience is in XC mountain bike racing, MMA, boxing, the occasional wedding and studio work. This was all new to me, and it was an excellent learning experience. Watching the photography great, Sterling Lorence, in action was satisfaction enough let alone watching Crankworx. Although I had to adjust to the speed of the racers and contestants in the slopestyle event, I was able to get some stellar photographs. Special thanks to Geoff Gulevich, Andreu Lacondeguy and Cam McCaul for their performances which enabled me to get some awesome photographs. Mountain bike events are so fun to be at. They always have such nice people, be it competitors or spectators. I am very thankful that I could be there, see you next year. Here are some pics from the Giant dual slalom, and the slopestyle event..

Andreu Lacondeguy (spanish)

Andreu Lacondeguy

Cam McCaul

Andreu Lacondeguy

Geoff Gulevich

Cam McCaul

Geoff Gulevich

Squamish

2009-08-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

On the west side of Squamish

Having driven for 14 hours straight to get here from Edmonton, I was a little delirious when I arrived. The strangest thing though is people in Squamish are always waving at me like as if they know me. I wave back, to be courteous, but I still don't know why they are waving. Oh well, I will just go with it.

The reason I am in Squamish is that I am attending 'Crankworx' at the Blackcomb resort. I am not participating, but I am taking photographs. After finding a parking spot and then trying to find the Westin to get my media pass I had decided it was time to go and get a java. I grab a piece of fruitcake that has blueberries in it, and sit down. Then I happen to notice that Ryan Leech is sitting at the table next to me while he is typing away on his Macbook. The people you run into in Whistler! It wasn't long before I had him convinced to do an interview which I will post soon.

After leaving the java spot I happened to come across the Rocky Mountain bikes tent, and Peter Vallance was there. We had a little chit chat, and then I was on my way to check things out and scope out shooting spots. The VW Trick event was cancelled due to rain, but I was able to get some good photos of Ryan Leech doing his trials riding.

Ryan Leech doing his thing

29 questions with Matt Hadley

2009-08-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Matt, could you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from? Where do live? Who do you race for etc?

I am from Mount Hope, New Brunswick. It is a small country road just outside of Fredericton. I grew up there playing in the bush with my older brother, Adam. We would run around and build forts, cut trees down with axes, and have sword fights with sticks. I also spent a ton of time working on our XC ski trails, both clearing them in the summer and grooming them in the winter – first by snowshoe and a drag behind tracksetter, and finally with a snowmobile and a classic track setter I welded.

I currently live in Kamloops, BC, with my girlfriend Catherine Vipond, and friends Catharine Pendrel and Keith Wilson. Yes, it is confusing when you call and ask for Catherine… Keith and Catharine have 3 cats, one of which, Oly, is very cool and will play fetch with ear plugs. We often get him on a training program doing repeats 3x/day so he gets in better shape. He is part ninja, and can leap from the floor to the top of the water heater to on top of the pipes in the floor joists!!!

I currently race for Xprexo bicycles. They are a very cool company. All the frames are hand made in Bromont, Quebec. The tubing comes in 12 foot lengths, and they cut it, shape it, and make it into frames! They use aluminum for the front triangles, and steel for the rear. They do a lot of work with very high quality steel, which means it is very light and extremely strong.

(Matt climbing 'Georgetown' at the Canmore Canada Cup '09)

What got you into mountain biking?

My parents took us on tons of exploring trips on our bicycles, and I just took that to a new level exploring all the muddy ATV trails, and then got to a race and got hooked.

What was your first mountain bike?

The first one that I really rode hard was a precision from a pawn shop. I rode it until I had to wire the cassette to the spokes to get home, as the freehub had died. After that I got a mongoose Sicamore SX, it was a good bike.

What was your first race, and how did you do?

I did my first race at age 14, it was a local race at Woolastock, NB. It was quite muddy, and I had the stock dry tires on the bike, and platform pedals. I won by a few minutes.

I know you have done a stage race in the past because I have photos of you from Trans Rockies ’07. What do you think of stage races? Which ones have you done? Which ones would you like to do in the future?

I have raced TR in 07 and 08, and Crank the Shield in 08. I am mixed on stage racing. I like real mountain biking, with good singletrack, and I think that often when you have a stage race so much is focused on getting from point A to B that you spend a lot of time riding boring gravel roads. However, the atmosphere, scenery, food and people usually make for such a fun time that I am sure I will do some more in the future. Currently I am really just interested in BCBR, as it has so much singletrack.

(Matt at the Edmonton Canada Cup '09)

Who was your mentor growing up? Who inspired you to doing things? You have improved from last year in the racing scene. What did you differently in the off season?

I guess my mentors growing up would be my parents, we did so many activities outside. I think between ages 8 and 16 I probably averaged 20hrs of physical activity/day.

I have improved quite a bit since last year, basically I took less time off and just trained more consistently all winter.

What do you enjoy most about mountain biking?

Cornering hard, flying through fast singletrack and making rough stuff flow.

Which do you prefer a hard tail, or full suspension?

Full suspension

If you could do it all over again, what would you do different if you could?

In the spring of 2001 I pushed myself really hard and got sick with bronchitis a few times and then in the hospital for 3 days on IV for Pneumonia. I would train less that spring if I could do it over. Also, I think the winters from 05-08 I lost too much fitness, and really started over each time.

Do you prefer SPD’s or Crankbrothers pedals?

SPD

Straight bars, or riser bars?

Riser

What do you hope to get from mountain bike racing? What end result would you like?

To have lots of fun, to push myself as far as possible and see what I have, to get to the Olympics and have an excellent race there.

Who are your favorite male and female racers?

Thomas Frischknecht and Alison Sydor

Do you have a better half, and does she race?

Girlfriend Catherine Vipond, and yes she races at the same level as I do

What are your strong and what are your weak points on the bike?

Riding rough singletrack fast, power on flats

Do you prefer bib shorts, or regular cycling shorts?

Bib

What is your prerace meal?

Oatmeal

How many hours on the bike a week for you during the season and in the off season?

During is about 10-14, and off 10-20

Who is your biggest fan?

My family, and a friend Terrance Grant

Do you have any brothers or sisters?

An older brother Adam

What would you do if you won 8 million dollars?

I would buy land, tons of land in the tropics, BC, and anywhere else that pristine forest was being threatened. Then I would build a sweet house in the middle of nowhere and fly in with a float plane and have my own network of singletrack trails.

I would probably organize a mtb team too.

Who is your toughest competitor?

Andrew Watson and I have been close for a long time, Kris Sneddon too.

Why do you race?

That feeling of giving it everything I’ve got, the perfect race.

What was your toughest race, and why?

Bromont World Cup in 2008. It was thick slow peanut butter mud, and I pushed myself so hard, I could barley ride 3 days later.

What is your best race and why?

Bromont World Cup 2008, I was 23^rd there and when you ride that hard it is like you empty your body, emotionally and physically.

What is the best day of your life so far?

There are tons, but a recent trip Catherine and I did back country skiing stands out as pretty amazing.

Do you prefer slicks over nobbies, or the other way around?

What are slicks?

What is your favorite movie?

Brave Heart

Who is your TV girlfriend? (favourite actress)

Penelope Cruz

What types of music do you listen to?

Anything but opera and country

Other cool stuff.

2^nd at nationals in 2003

Biked across Canada in 2000 with my family, the whole way from Victoria to cape Spear NFLD, un supported.

29 questions with Kate Aardal

2009-08-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Kate, I am not going to lie to you, but I don’t know a thing about you. But I do appreciate you doing this interview for me, and it really helps. Could you tell us a little about yourself? Like where do you live? Where are you from? Who do you race for? Etc.

Hey Patrick, no worries. I originally from Norway but came over seas a while back for travel and to learn the language, and haven’t turned back, besides visits to see my family. I’m now living in Fort McMurray, and that is also where it all began! My bike addiction that is. I’m a member of Hardcore which is in Edmonton.

1. What got you into to mountain biking?

When I came to Fort McMurray on my first work term during university I ended up working a shift schedule, it was very hard to play soccer at a committed level which was my sport growing up. So I had to find something I could do on my own. I started looking at bikes and that was in 2001. I got a Giant ATC, it was red and yellow.

Kate at the 'Perogy race '08

2. How long have you been racing?

My first race I think was a 24 hour race in Canmore on a team from Fort McMurray in 2002. I was hooked on the endurance biking pretty quick so jumped on the Canadian Death ride that year too.

3. Do you just race mountain bikes, or do you enjoy other sports as well?

These das mountain biking is the only thing I do at a competitive level.

4. What races have you done this year?

This year I’ve done a couple of Canada Cups and couple of one day endure (Salty Dog and Stony Plain), and AB cup (Stony Plain). I did BC bike race with Steve Martin from Hardcore, and I just finished Intermontane yesterday, though yesterday I was one of many who did not start, of reasons you will probably shortly hear of if you follow these events. Not what anyone expected, even from a first year event.

Kate at the Edmonton Canada Cup '09

5. What races do you have planned for the rest of the season?

I have nothing on the schedule until September, Crank the shield in ON, then possible LaRuta in November. But starting a new job shortly so will see how it will pan out.

6. Have you ever done a stage race before? If not, have you ever considered doing one?

Yes, longer distance/multi day is my thing.

7. Who is your favourite female mountain biker?

I don’t really have one that jumps out, so if I had to think about it, it’s probably not one I can call favorite. I do have many female riders that inspires me, for their determination and commitment and what they do for the sport.

8. Who is your favourite male mountain biker?

Very much the same as on the female side. There are many.

9. Who has mentored you in the sport of mountain biking?

I have never had an official coach or been on a team that have coaching. But starting off in Fort McMurray a Tuesday night group ride got me going, the guys would let me come and wait when I feel off the pack on a regular basis, today I wait for them J. In the last few year when getting into stage racing, Troy Misseghers have given me some guidance in regards to training, which have taking me out of the “just ride” training schedule, now I “just ride with a little bit of purpose”.

10. How many hours a week do you train during the season, and how many hours a week in the off season?

I’m a bit of the low side, so should I state what I should do or what I am doing? Low end week I’ll get in 6-8 hrs, on a high end week I target 14-18, but mostly a few hours during the week and then cram in long rides on the weekend. Winter is out when I can, call it training or whatever. I don’t train indoors, my joy is to be outside.

Kate at the Canmore Canada Cup '09

11. Which has been your toughest race so far, and why?

You tend to forget that it was hard. But this year during BC bike race I had a lot of strugglers with a shoulder/back so it became hard to finish for that reason. La Ruta is probably ranked way up there as tough and hard even if all goes well!

12. Which has been your best race so far, and why?

Every race my goals are very personal so very hard to pick one. I remember them all as great experiences and something to take back. It was great to have my dad come follow me in La Ruta and I had a great time doing the Birkebeinern (Norway) and have my family out as well. Living in Canada I don’t get often.

13. Do you have a nemesis? If so, who is it?

Just my self

14. What are your goals that you plan to achieve from mountain biking?

To keep having fun, and always remember why I ride. I’d love to put more time into promoting riding in the community I live, it’s sort of fallen short the last few years, so trying to pick it up. I don’t enjoy lonely rides!

15. What manufacturer of mountain bikes do you prefer?

I ride a Titus this year, and it’s great. I have a Turner and raced Turner for a few years and loved it too.

16. If you could change anything in the sport of mountain biking, what would it be?

I’d like to see more female riders out.

17. What is your favourite trail to ride, and why?

Oh gees, I can enjoy all single track trails. Fast technical.

18. What is your favourite race course to race?

BC bike race has all the trails you can imagine.

19. If you could tell the new people to the sport and the young ones anything, what would it be?

Always have fun with it!

20. Do you have a trainer that makes training programs for you? Or are you self taught?

I can say self taught, but pick up things all over. Not a very strict program, I try to have fun at all times.

21. What would you say your strong points are in mountain biking?

My passion for the sport. As for riding, fast and tecknical.

22. What would you say your weaknesses are?

My bank account that tells me I need to get back to work!

As for riding, I struggle on long flats.

23. If you could suggest people to be interviewed for this blog, who would you recommend?

There are so many, but a lot of my inspiration comes from a friend and old college of mine, Bernie Pulsifer. If you want to promote the sport, he has put so much into it. He still rides hard, over 50 and with cancer the last few years. He is from Fernie and has done so much for the community there.

24. Do you prefer a hardtail, or do you prefer the full suspension bikes?

I’m on dual suspension, have been for the last 4 years. I love my hard tail for my Tims doggie ride in the morning.

25. How long have you raced for team Hardcore, and how do you like it?

Since last year, it’s a great small shop in Edmonton. I joined to be part of a club, as there are no team in Fort McMurray. It’s been great.

26. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

J people that know me would say, gees, she doesn’t even plan next year! I hope I’m still riding strong!

27. Do you prefer shorts or bib shorts?

bib

28. If you could change anything in the past, what would it be?

nothing

29. What is your pre-race meal?

Whatever I can get to, eggs, oat meal, Tims, McDonalds, shake, ice crea… think I’ve done them all…

More interviews to come.

2009-07-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

I should have delayed each interview instead of posting all of them in the first week. There are more interviews coming, and I will be posting them as soon as they become available. Are there any suggestions on who you would like interviewed? I will do my best to get it done.

29 questions with Jean Ann McKirdy

2009-07-21T21:03:00.000-07:00

First off, could you tell me a little about yourself? Like what you do, who you race for, and why etc.

About me:

I grew up in the village of Valemount BC, and started mountain biking in high school, through the excellent mountain bike program at the school. Things took off from there. I have been racing for nine years, and am currently riding for the Local Ride Elite Women’s MTB Team, which Sandra Walter and I founded this year. This year I graduated from Simon Fraser University, with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. I race because I love the challenge of competition, pushing myself to become better, but also because I love the dynamic and adventurous nature of the sport. No two trails are the same, the sport has given me amazing opportunities to travel, experience the world and grow.

1. What is your prerace meal?

8 grain porridge and yogurt, loaded with fruit, almond butter, a little lemon zest, plus stovetop espresso.

(Jean Ann on a descent at the Edmonton Canada Cup)

2. How old are you?

25.

3. How long have you been racing bikes? (or riding bikes)

9 years.

4. What do you do in your spare time, if you have any?

Catch up with family and friends, preferably while doing something outdoors. Ski touring and kayaking are two favorites for the off season. I also enjoy drawing and painting, and am currently learning guitar.

(on the flat stretch at the Edmonton Canada Cup)

5. What movies have you seen lately?

The Secret Life of Bees

Wired to Win

6. Your music preference?

I like a variety, but folk and classical are currently at the top of the list.

7. Your preference in bicycle brands?

Here are my top two:

1) I love my prototype Xprezo steel hardtail. It is light and fast and very raceable, with really comfortable geometry and a nice smooth steel feel. Plus the color is great.

2) My Time Titan Carbon pedals, so much float and great mud clearance.

(Short but steep climb in the Edmonton Canada Cup)

8. The best day of your life?

In terms of racing, I think the best might be Canada Games in 2005. Things came together for me well that year, and specifically that week. It was a lot of fun to win the first gold medal of the games, and have a teammate Martina Feldman in silver with me.

9. The worst day of your life?

As far as cycling goes, it was the National Championships in 2004. It was rainy, cold and miserable. I thought that I should have been on the podium in my age category, but instead ended up battling these awful cramps, spending most of the race spasming, in tears, and finishing dead last. They started the next race while I was still on course.

10. If you were a bag of chips, what kind of chips would you be?

Party Mix! I definitely like variety in life.

11. If you were on a deserted island all by yourself, and could only have three items, what would they be?

1) A great book

2) A pen, pencil and lots of paper.

3) A good knife

12. Your greatest accomplishment, or accomplishments?

This is a really hard question for me, because my accomplishments in cycling are just experiences that I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to take part in and do well at. Most of the time it is not like work, but more like play.

13. Do you have any brothers or sisters?

Yes, one brother and four sisters. I am the oldest.

14. What do your parents think about you racing bikes?

They are very supportive. My mom took up riding, and now we ride together. It is a lot of fun!

15. Where were you born, and where did you grow up?

I was born in Jasper AB, and grew up in Valemount BC.

16. Who is your favorite female and male actor?

Julia Roberts, and Mel Gibson.

17. Who is your favorite and female and male athlete?

You just interviewed one of them! Catherine Pendrel. For the male I would say Steve Prefontane, from my track and field days.

18. How many hours a week do you train yourself, and others?

A typical training week for me is around 14 hours.

19. Where do you live?

I currently live in Coquitlam BC.

20. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself retired from bike racing, catching up on some of the other adventures that I put on the backburner, while I compete: epic paddling and backpacking trips, and learning new skills but definitely still riding. I’d like to have a family too, so maybe that will be in the mix.

21. Do you have a nemesis, and if so, who is it?

No nemesis, but I like to battle it out with many different people, in many different situations; it depends on the discipline, the course, the ride. Often it is between friends, or the guys on the team.

22. Who is your favorite photographer? (just kidding)

I definitely have to say that the recent color-pop photos that you have done are excellent. Everyone who I show them to loves them and it is nice to see that kind of creative look at mountain bike racing.

23. Sram or Shimano?

They both have their strong points. I chose to run Sram this year.

24. Your worst injury?

Probably the one I have dealt with this summer, a bad back strain and damage to the SI joint, from a crash at the Edmonton Canada Cup. It was inconvenient timing, because it happened right before the most important races of the year for me, the World Cups and Nationals, so cost me a lot. I am positive about making the best of it though, and looking forward to some fall races and a really fun cyclocross season.

25. You are going to school, or have finished? What are you, or were you taking?

I just finished a Biology degree at Simon Fraser University, in the Ecology and Evolution stream this winter.

26. Who in your mind is the best female mountain bike racer in the World Cups?

I would choose Catherine Pendrel. I am biased, because I am a huge fan, but I think she has the mental makeup of a World Cup Champion and all of the physical talent. She has spent much of the season ranked number one in the world, is consistent, and an up and comer for sure.

27. Have you ever raced in a stage race before, and how did you like it?

I raced the Cape Epic as a mixed team in 2006. It was the hardest and most spectacular racing I have done in my life. I also did the Transrockies last year with Les, who initially coached me and got me into the sport.

28. Would you ever do the RAAM or RAW?

Maybe. When I gain a lot more old-woman strength.

29. If you could thank someone at this point in your life for what you have accomplished, who would it be?

Definitely Les, who got the ball rolling and gave me the opportunity to start the sport.

If you would like to read more about Jean Ann, here is a link to her blog.

http://jeanannmckirdy.blogspot.com/

Danelle Kabush

2009-07-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

I do not know very much about you, so I will start from scratch. My mentor told me not to research people before you interview them. "It limits your mind" he says. So here it goes.

Danelle on the 'Georgetown' climb at the Canmore Nordic Center.

1. What types of races do you do, and who do you race for?

My main focus is Xterra racing with some occasional mtb races (off-road triathlons that consist of 1500m swim, 30km mtb, and 10km run). I race for the Luna Pro Team

2. Where do you reside, and where did you grow up?

I live in Calgary, Alberta and I grew up in Courtenay, BC

3. One of your greatest accomplishments?

Coming 2nd at last year's (2008) Xterra World Championship after taking 2007 off to have my daughter

4. Your toughest race?

The Northeast Xterra Cup I just completed on July 12th because the swim was cold, the mtb was almost a 2h uphill mudbog and the run was straight up and down the ski slopes of Sugarbush through mud and leg zapping wet grass.

5. If you could go back and change anything would you?

And if so what would you change? I wouldn't change much. I've been fortunate to enjoy being a competitive athlete as a runner through my undergraduate degree, then as a mountain bike racer for 5 years before switching to Xterra, all while enjoying a good balance with school, work, and starting a family

6. What is your pre-race meal?

Oatmeal, toast, egg, and coffee

7. What inspires you to go out and make yourself suffer through a race? (When taking photos I hear riders asking themselves, "why am I doing this to myself?")

Because I have the support to train to the level I need to and the opportunity to compete. I know I won't be racing at the level I am for too many more years, so I try and get the most out of myself in every race

8. What do you do in the winter for training?

I cross-country ski, swim, run, and ride my trainer or rollers indoors

9. Have you ever done any stage races before?

10. Your toughest race? And why?

See question 4

11. In your mind who is the best female mountain bike racer of all time? (Alison Sydor in my book)

I agree as far as longevity or career!

12. What do you do in the spare time that you do have?

Take my daughter to the park, bake cookies, catch up with friends, read

13. Which is the toughest mountain bike course?

That's a tough one...I think Canmore is up there for the effort needed in the climbs and the focus to ride the descents quick

14. What are your strong points, and weak points in mountain bike racing?

Strength is climbing, weakness is probably cornering fast

15. I notice that Geoff Kabush (brother) is a very smooth rider, do you take after him with this skill?

I like to think I'm smooth for sure, but not as fast by any means!

16. If you could change anything in mountain bike racing, what would it be? (for me it would be sleeveless jerseys allowed in UCI rules)

Maybe keep the races a little longer, 1h30 for women is getting to be more of a sprint.

17. What do you do when you are not racing or training? (work, children, etc.)

I'm being a mom and I work as a mental training consultant at the Canadian Sport Centre in Calgary

18. Which Epic bike race would you like to do next year? Who would be your partner if you had one?

I'd love to do the BC Bike race one year with my husband

19. If you could do humanitarian work, where would you do it?

I would like to help underprivileged children get involved in sport, there are some great organizations out there like Right to Play that would be fun to get involved with

20. What are your goals for the rest of the season, and next season?

My goals are to finish top three at the Xterra National and World Championships

Catharine Pendrel interview.

2009-07-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

This is the second interview in the series of Women mountain bikers. Would like to thank Catharine for taking the time to do this, and it is greatly appreciated.

Hi Catharine, to start off could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hmm, I’m 28, have been a professional mtn. bike racer for Luna the last 2 years (before that I worked 25-40hrs/week at a variety of flexible jobs) and a national team member since 2004. I got married to my husband Keith in 2006 and we live in Kamloops, BC. I grew up in NB, but finished University in Victoria where I met both Keith and my coach since 2003 Dan Proulx in the Triathlon Club. I have a BA in sociology and Psychology and am looking to do a masters in Physiotherapy after I make a run at the 2012 Olympics.

How long have you been racing mountain bikes?

I started riding a mountain bike in 1997 and got into racing at a recreational level right away. In 2003 when I had moved to BC from NB and could train year round I got a lot more serious about racing.

What team are you currently racing for?

Luna Pro team. Luna is the women’s nutrition line of CliffBar.

You just recently won the nationals, what was it like to be first on the podium?

Pretty awesome

Also, a week before the nationals you completed and won your category in the BC Bike race. Were you worried you wouldn’t be recovered enough for nationals?

Sure, especially before I actually started racing. I kept feeling good throughout the week though so the worry faded. I think the daily massage helped!

Do you think the BC Bike race was adequate training for the World Cup races coming up?

I think it’ll give me a strong base which should help me maintain good form through the world cups until World Championships in September. Before a mountain bike race are you nervous, and get the jitters? Or are you calm and relaxed? (some people get really nervous, feel sick, and have to pee lots). I’m usually more relaxed than nervous. You have a routine you’ve done so many times you just want to get down to racing.

Do you remember your first time riding a bike by yourself without any help?

Yup, Dad was there and we were on a grassy slope in case I fell.

What was your first mountain bike? (mine was a Norco Bigfoot, pink/black)

A K2 A47 hand me down from my brother. My dad is riding it now.

Do you plan on doing other stage races in the future like the BC Bike race?

I’d love to do the BC bike race again. I don’t think I’d be overly excited to do one that was mostly fireroads.

Have you ever thought of doing Endurance races in Europe ever and maybe competing against Pia Sunstedt?

Not really. I like going fast rather than long. I think it’d be fun to try racing World cup road though.

This year you shattered the Test of Metal record for women. For this race did you change up your game plan from last year?

I hadn’t raced it for a couple years. Test times are always altered by conditions. This year was pretty fast and I think they’ve shaved about 5 minutes of time off the course from what I raced in a very rainy 2007. I didn’t Kill myself early to stay in packs with guys on the road and tried to ramp it up 2^nd half of the course.

What kind of training do you do in the off season?

I love cross country skiing and switch it up between skate and classic and sometimes snowshoes. I also run and do weights to add some weight bearing activities…important for women.

What do you do in your spare time? That is if you ever get any.

I took an anatomy and physiology and French course last year. We also bought a house last year so played around with power tools a fair amount too!

For young riders, do you have any advice for them?

Have fun riding your bike! Search out cool areas to ride and neat events and always remember why you ride.

Which do you prefer, hardtail or full suspension?

Depends on the trail, but a hardtail for racing. They just feel so good when you want to put power down.

If you could thank anyone for your accomplishments, who would it be?

My coach Dan and husband Keith

Who is your number one fan?

Mom, Dad and Keith I know that’s three, but they’re all pretty great.

What should we expect to see from Catherine Pendrel in the future?

Hopefully a lot more World cup podiums and another shot at the Olympic podium

If you would like to read more about Catharine here is her blog address.

http://cpendrel.blogspot.com/

Mical Dyck interview

2009-07-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

This is the first interview in a series that is going to focus on Women's Mountain biking.

Mical is an Elite Mountain bike, and Cyclecross racer from Calgary, Alberta. Mical is a friend and I am grateful that she let me interview her for my first official interview. Mical is a great rider as well as a great person. She brings a lot to the table when it comes to mountain biking.

1. What got you into mountain biking?

Actually my brother and my dad dragged me out on a couple of group rides in Fort McMurray, Alberta. There used to be a huge XC scene up there. I'd go along and get totally shelled every ride but loved it. They finally convinced me to try a race, it snowed, I was the only girl, it was a complete mess, but I fell in love with racing. I really enjoy the people and atmosphere around cycling.

2. Who is your number one fan?

Of course my parents :)

3. Who do you race for, and what kind of racing do you do?

I currently race for the Trek Toronto Team and I predominately race Olympic distance cross country but really enjoy cyclecross racing as well.

(this is Mical climbing 'Georgetown' at the Canada Cup at the Nordic Center '09)

4. What is your favorite pre-race meal, and post-race meal?

Pre-race - oatmeal with berries and nuts, coffee

Post-race - pizza and beer

5. If you were a bag of chips, what kind of chips would you be?

Miss Vicky's Jalapeno

6. What are your goals you have in racing?

I've always wanted to be a professional athlete, to get paid to play. My ultimate cycling goal is the Olympics

7. You have raced across the pond, how is it different than racing here?

Yes, I've raced in Europe a couple of times. Cycling is way more accepted and apart of the culture in Europe, whole communities come out to races and get involved. There are a lot more competitors racing and a lot more fans watching. It's a really neat experience getting to race in front of thousands of people.

(at the top of 'Georgetown')

8. What is your weakness in racing, and what is your strength?

Weakness - climbing, I think I need a weight category

Strengths - fast technical descents

9. What is your favorite course to race on and why?

Offenberg, Germany. It's a fast flowy but pretty technical course, and really, really fun to ride.

10. Do you prefer a hardtail or full suspension bike?

I've only ridden a full suspension for the past 4 years, but I'm rediscovering my love for the hardtail, so it's tough to say. There a couple of courses that I really love the dually for and a couple that I really love the hardtail for. Trek has done such a great job with both bikes this year, I can't complain with either one.

11. What stage races have you done, and what were your results?

Just finished BC Bike Race (2009) in the co-ed with good friend Jeff Neilson. It was an absolutely amazing week of riding some pretty wicked trails, I would definitely do it again and recommend it to everyone. We finished 2nd.

Did part of the Transrockies last year, I got sick with a stomache something or other going into the race and ended up missing the first two days. We raced the last 5 days and even had two podium days on the last two days.

13. What races do you plan on racing for the rest of the MTB season, and cross?

Getting ready for the World Cups in Quebec, Mont St Anne and Bromont. From there it will depend on whether or not I make the worlds team to go to Australia...that would be a great experience. Either way I'm planning to end the season off with the US Cup in Vegas..always wanted to go.

My cross season will depend on how much energy I have left at the end of the summer. I'm really hoping that I can be competitive for nationals this year.

14. Who is your favorite photographer?

You are:)

15. Do you prefer to race in the west or the east?

West without a doubt. It's usually dry and I love the riding in the west...though there are some great courses in the east, but they're always wet.

16. What are your passions in life?

Living each day the best I can and making the most out of every situation.

Outside of cycling I really enjoy skiing, hiking, camping, climbing....pretty much anything outdoors, coffee, sushi and reading.

17. How long do you plan to race for?

Not sure, I'm taking each year at a time right now.

18. Who is your favorite female MTB racer? Mine is Alison Sydor.

I would have to agree, Alison has done so much for the sport and for women in the sport it's amazing. As well, she's a great person to talk to, a wealth of knowledge.

19. What was your toughest race, and which was your best race?

My toughest race would have to be the 2 Canadian world cups last year. I was planning on peaking for them and ended up completing flopping at those two races.

My best race would be, that's a tough one, probably be the World Cup in Offenburg in 2008. I started more then half way back in the pack, but road a really good strong race and finished 29th.

20. Do you think they should put short track events in the ABA MTB races?

Definitely, they are a great spectator event and super fun to race.

21. Do you have any advice for young riders?

Just have fun, don't get too wrapped up in results or comparing yourself to another racer, everyone has good and bad days.

I would especially like to thank Mical for doing this interview. It is greatly appreciated. Good luck in your races.

If you would like to read more on Mical here is her blog address

http://www.micaldyck.blogspot.com/

Devon Dust up

2009-07-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

For the most part I feel that I have improved in my photography ability since last year. I am quite happy with my results today. Yesterday, I had done some humanitarian photography, and in doing this it helped me to get different viewing angles. I wanted to be different than everybody else, and I feel I did accomplish this. What is the next step? Well I don't know, but I hope it is good, and brings me lots of $. Just kidding, but it would be nice.

As for the race, it had a great turn out, and the weather couldn't have been any better. The organizers (Hardcore Mountain bike store) put on an excellent event. The climbs were not long, but semi short, and steep (power climbs). You had to pace yourself on the first couple of laps, or you would be walking the climbs in the laps later on. There was not much forgiveness on this course.

A job well done, and congrats to the organizers. I will be sure to mark it on my calendar for next year.

The photo above is Shantell Koenig, and Matt Krahn. I am biased on the RedBike jerseys because they "ColorPop" so well, and I am on Team Redbike, but on the injured roster.

This is another image of Shantelle.

This is Judy Harlton tearing up one of the many climbs on this course.

Interviews

2009-07-08T21:51:00.000-07:00

Soon to come will be interviews with Jean Ann McKirdy (Team Local Ride), and Danelle Kabush (Team Luna).

Canada Day Crit.

2009-07-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

This was my first crit to see in person, and the riders were fast. Not sure I would be comfortable going that speed in a tight pack, but I am sure I would get used to it. I only stayed for the first two heats, and not for the third and final one. I opted instead to go outside on our beautiful Canada Day and ride my mounain bike. The third heat had categories 1 & 2 in it. This pic is of the first group that raced. It is the straight away before the finish line, and this isn't the final lap.

Colorpops.

2009-07-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

Having started "colorpops" just over a 13 months ago I am starting to feel like I am getting the hang of it. This photo is of Danelle Kabush of team "Luna Chix".

This year's Canada Cup race was different from last year as they took out the "oven" which is about a 10 to 15 min climb depending on how fast your are. The last few days before the race I had planned on going to the 2/3 mark of the oven and was going to take photos there. But with the oven being taken out I had to come up with a different plan for good photos. About 20 min before the race started I began to walk up to the "Georgetown" climb. It is probably the worst 3 min of the course, steep and rocky, and the rocks aren't tiny. This picture is just near the top of the climb and you can see by her body position that it isn't an easy climb.

Not sure exactly why, but I find it very rewarding to take bicycle racing pictures. The people are so nice, and it is very satisfying to take their photos.

The Canmore Canada Cup.

2009-06-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

I did what it took to get to this race. It was a tough go, but I somehow managed. It was one of the most important races for me to attend so far this year. I had to get some pictures of the racers at the Canmore Canada Cup.

Struggling with having no money, no time, and being constantly sick this year, my race season was not happening. I figured maybe it was a sign to focus on something else (photography). I have been to MFC fights, TFC fights and KO boxing promotions paying my dues with taking photos. When doing these types of events the photos go unappreciated. They don't give a rat's ass about the photos. They only want their blood, blood money, and to keep the fans thirsty.

But when it comes to mountain bike, or two wheeled racing of any sort, it is a different story; the photos go greatly appreciated. It also puts a smile on the photographer's face. The photo right below is of Bianca Adolphe, and she races for the "Local Ride" race team along with Jean Ann McKirdy, who did not race do to an injury from last weekend's race in Edmonton. Team Local Ride, and Team Luna are all female teams, and these two teams kick some ass. Very strong riders on each team. Luna has been around for many years, and this is Team Local Ride's first season.

The photo below shows Geoff Kabush in the lead and I am sorry, but the other two rider's names I don't know. Geoff ended up winning this event and this was his first Canada Cup this year. The turnout was excellent and the weather was awesome as well. They say the Canmore course is one of the toughest in the Canada Cup series. I am thinking they are right.

Beginnings

2008-10-05T16:56:00.001-07:00

This is the first post for this blog, and the beginning of many things to come. The photo is of my friend, Ann Mclean, and that is her dog named Emma. The photo is a B/W conversion with motion blur to hide the horrible background. It didn't turn out too bad, and you can do lots with photoshop nowadays.