One of my most pivotal experiences is actually a combination of events and realizations. It was when I figured out that progression isn't always about podiums and medals, but knowing that you learned something and did something new, essentially pushing myself. I think this mindset was what helped me progress so quickly and push me to become who I am today as a rider.

Growing up I had participated in soccer for 7 years. Basically, my entire childhood. It taught me about teamwork and that I enjoyed the outdoors. It was a good time but my life changed when my little sister signed up for a youth cycling class through an organization named Sweetlines. I went with her and began riding the mountain bike trails at the Bike Park while she had her lessons. That’s when I was introduced to “real mountain biking”. At that point I knew I found the sport that I loved and have become so attached to. I don’t think if I had been in youth sports and been active, I would have found mountain biking.

I would tell myself “Dream as big as you want to. You are putting in the hard work and all the effort, so what is limiting you? Reach for the stars and don't let anyone hold you back”.