1. When did you start racing and why?
2019 was my first full year of racing. I participated in a variety of sports throughout high school and wanted to start another hobby to remain active and continue challenging myself. I’d definitely still consider myself a cycling newbie.
2. What makes you love cycling so much?
My love of cycling came from my Dad. Every summer I couldn’t wait until July so we could watch the Tour De France together. I never really started taking cycling seriously until last year. Cycling is a great form of exercise is also a very analytical sport which is why I enjoy it so much.
3. What different cycling disciplines do you participate? Race or recreation?
Strictly a roadie at this point. Not the best bike handler out there, so MTB or cross is probably not a good idea at this point. But I won’t rule it out.
4. What do you take in your jersey on long rides?
Cellphone, wallet, and maybe a little food
5. What piece of your cycling gear (clothing, wheels, anything) is your favorite?
Wheels are the biggest upgrade I’ve made on my bike. However, the piece of gear I can’t live without is my power meter.
6. Which pro cyclist will you cheer for in the pro peloton?
Generally I root for the domestiques and breakaway specialists. At this point I watch more pro cycling than any other sport. Some of my favorites include: Mike Woods, Kasper Asgreen, Tim DeClercq, Daniel Oss, Alex Dowsett ,George Bennett, Tim Wellens, and Lachlan Morton
7. Which pro cyclist do you think your style is most like?
I like to sit on the front of the peloton or go for breakaways. I’m also a bigger rider, so probably Tim Declercq. He rides for Deceuninck -Quick Step and is an absolute monster on flat windy races. I’m also similar to the American Chad Haga and the Belgian Tim Wellens. Both are tall lanky riders that are decent at climbing and time trialing
8. What do you eat after a long ride or race?
A big bowl of oats and veggies
9. What is your favorite race memory, what race was it and why do you remember it?
I’ve only raced about 20 times so I don’t have many options. I guess it would be my first win this year during the RATL race series. I went solo off the front and stayed away to take the win. Second favorite memory would have to be winning the WV State Road Race championship this year.Really a brutal course with a lot of climbing. I came across the line a few minutes ahead of 2nd place so I had time to enjoy the moment.
10. What advice do you give to your team member or a new team member?
Ride lots, keep hydrated, and never forget your helmet!
11. What are your 2020 goals?
It’d be pretty sweet to get to Category 2 this year. Not sure if it’s possible, but I’m gonna give it a go. Podium on a stage race. No longer being a solo rider, I’m going to enjoy being part of a team effort in races. I’d love to do some lead outs and help our sprinters get some wins. Finally, most importantly, beat Lee Lauderman in a sprint.
12. When you aren’t pedaling your bike what do you like to do?
Listening to music, eating, reading, and spending time with family and friends.