The past month has been packed with lots of travel and a few races. I had an awesome opportunity to do an urban downhill race in Mexico, something I have never done before. The race was a lot of fun. We raced through the town of Taxco, a silver mining town in southern Mexico. There were huge wooden ramps built for us to jump off 3 story buildings and massive dirt jumps down the main street of town! I finished 3rd there in a very close race, only 0.5 off the win. There were so many fans there, I'd say more at that race than at any other race all season. Very cool experience. Shortly after that I was off to Indonesia for the Asia Pacific Downhill Challenge. It was similar to the race in Mexico in that the main purpose of the event was to bring the sport to an area that doesn't get to see a whole lot of professional racing. The track there was extremely slick. Hard packed red clay with torrential rains made it almost impossible to ride. I ended up 5th there after a big crash right out of the gate. My Mom and I were very well taken care of by the local Trek distributer. I really enjoyed both races and having the chance to see a new part of the world.
Last week I was away again, but for the first time in a while, not for a race. I went with my uncle and his family to the Bahamas for a week vacation. It was so cool to be away and not be thinking about getting ready for a race. My cousins and I had so much fun snorkeling, parasailing, riding jet skis, fishing, kayaking and enjoying the Caribbean lifestyle. I am very grateful to have such a cool family and be able to do things like this. Right now I am in Asheville, North Carolina staying with my good friend Chris Herndon. I will be staying here 2 weeks, taking advantage of the beautiful weather and great riding. I have been chasing my coach Colin Izzard and the boys from Carmichael Training Systems up the hills here in Pisgah Forest. I've put a lot of hours on my bike this week and plan on getting in as many more as I can before heading home.
NM
