Yesterday I did a 50 mile endurance ride with my CycleYouth/LeRoy's Bikeworks teammates and my dad at Loyce Harper Park.  Coach Chris told us that it was a training ride and we could pick our own course.  My dad and I started out by doing a couple of the tougher courses Big Mama's House and Second Finger.  Then about mile 27 we  dropped those and concentrated on putting in the miles.  Several times we would ride the same trail twice to add miles and to make up for not doing Big Mama's House.  I was hot and tired but I did not have the cramping and pain like I have experienced in the past.  Coming back to the starting point I was encouraged and pleased to see Coach Chris, Ms. Christie, Cody, Shelby and my mom waiting for me and cheering me on.  I stuck with it and finished all 50 miles.  Thanks dad for riding with me. 

          My latest race was this past weekend at Conyers, GA where I finished 7 in the 11 to 14 age group.  This was my first time riding this course.  I was nervous because I was not able to pre-ride and it was raining, but Coach Chris explained that it was not a technical course and that he felt I would do fine.  I felt good when we took off the starting line because I was able to keep up with the pack and I even passed another racer.  I was about to pass second racer but my back tire slid away as we were going around a corner.  This was the muddiest race I have ever done and I was not sure it would ever stop raining.  I was so excited when I was in the muddy field and I heard the announcer's voice I knew I was almost finished.  I would like to say thank you to LeRoy and all your staff for all the fine tuning and adjustments that you made on my bike last week. I would also like to Thank all the people that encouraged my to do my best.

Getting to know me...

          Let me start off by telling you a little about myself.  I am 12 years old that loves mountain biking, playing airsoft, building things, my 2 dogs and other animals.  I am not picky about what kind of animal but snakes and alligators would have to be my favorite because they  really make my mom squirm. 
          I started mountain biking about 1 1/2 years ago. In July of 2012, I joined the CycleYouth/LeRoy's Bikeworks Team.  I ride an Orbea Alma 29er with American Classic wheels and Rockshox sid forks.  I am currently using ESI grips.
          My favorite local trail is Big Mama's House at Loyce Harpe Park.  My favorite race so far would be Markum Park in Miami, FL.  I enjoyed this race because I love all the wooden bridge drops.
          My mentors would be Coach Chris Burnett and Jeff Adams. Coach Chris has and still is  teaching me about the technical things of riding.  While Jeff Adams is helping me train and become a stronger all around athlete.  
          My cycling goals for this next racing season would be to finish in the top 10 and to stand on the podium at least twice.