The week before the World Cup finals was spent in Alpachtal, Austria training, taking photos with Richie and Marco Tonolio and getting some pretty sweet massages. The sun was shining the whole time, which always makes me happy. The tourism board put us up in exchange for some posters. That is a good deal!

Riding in Alpachtal

The sun eventually turned to rain but the course in Schladming stayed pretty dry. I think at this point I would have preferred some slop as my technical skills might have moved me up a few spots.

I had no idea how relieved I was that the 2008 season was finally over until I crossed the line. Even though the rescue mission of 2008 turned out to be successful, I still finished off my normal pace in 19th. I am looking forward to a solid off season and a chance to just breathe for a while!

Feed zone in the mountains

Nothing ever slows down for long though, and I will be off to Vegas for the Interbike trade show next week. It should be fun as long as I catch up on some sleep!

I am now in NC and thinking about lacing up my running shoes. .. tomorrow.

As you might notice, my awesome web guy Jimmi has been doing some work. Looks like I will have to change the home page as the Olympics did not happen! Thanks for checking in.

As I write this post I am back in Europe. The sun is out and I am feeling motivated for the final race of the season in Schladming Austria. I have been feeling good these days, with lots of energy for fun and riding. I spent August in Whistler enjoying the Crankworks festivities, riding with my brothers, and accepting a marriage proposal from Richie. The Olympic rings were not in the cards this year, but the universe finds a way to make it up to you doesn’t it? It has been a pretty exciting month!

Engagement day. Richie is in heaven!

The final NORBA race of the year was held in Brian Head Utah. Altitude has never been my favorite, but I had a really great race that day finishing fifth. The air was thin at 11,307 feet, but my legs felt great and the trail was sweet. I can’t complain! It seems I now have the entire team coming to the Interbike Tradeshow in Las Vegas to celebrate my engagement. . . it will be fun!

Directly after Brian Head I boarded a plane to Europe to attend the Eurobike tradeshow. Richie was busy signing posters and making deals, so I had plenty of time to train and relax. The new Cyclepassion calendar was launched at the show, and I had a bit of fun signing autographs for the boys. Check it out at www.cyclepassion.com.

Thanks for checking in. This site is a work in progress, so come back soon to view my galleries and sponsor links.

An outake from the Cyclepassion shoot. ..

Well, it’s time to train, then I am scheduled for a pedicure and a massage. Life is great!