Jim Holeva Race Interview - Spring Mtn Challenge '01

Yes, I've lost a bit more weight since the last series race, I've logged some big miles on the road, and I did a lot of intervals too. I was also helping my dad work on climbing for this race, so we did a lot of climbing workouts together.

Did you have any problems getting into the singletrack?

Nope! I do rather start on a flat, and then head uphill instead of right on an uphill though.

How did you like the climbs?

I loved them, there weren't enough though, they were all fun. I think I stayed in the middle ring for all of them. I love to climb!!

Were you strong from start to finish?

Oh yeah, my dad said I looked really strong coming by him each lap, I felt great, I wish the race was longer!

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes, excellent job!! I didn't like those holes right of the start though, you had to be careful there.

When did you put the hammer down?

Well, I was in the lead group into the singletrack when I lost my chain. So, the field kind of got away from me there. As I was picking off the guys who had passed me, I continued to drop my chain. I moved into second on the first climb of the second lap. I continued to drop my chain but I was hammering, and I caught up to Adam on one of the short climbs during the second lap, I followed him into the singletrack where I again dropped my chain. I continued to hammer to try and catch him, but the chain problems continued. I kept the pace hard the rest of the race but the chain problems kept coming strong as well.

Did you have any unusual problems?

CHAIN PROBLEMS!!

Did you have any interesting experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?

These attractive girls kept getting in my way in the singletrack. I asked them what they were doing, they said they were trying to get a good look at me.

Did you feel any extra excitement since this is the final Super Series race?

Oh yeah, I really wanted to win, but the bike problems prevailed.

If you had just ONE thing that you could change to make next year's series better....... what would that be?

More northern races. The Endless Encounter in New Milford, PA would be the perfect course for a super series race. Great course for all levels, and great prizes too!

Anything you would like to add?

I enjoyed the series. Great job Bill and Don putting on this series. I'd like to thank my Dad for taking me to all the races, and handing me bottles. I'd also like to thank Bobby and Maria at the Bike Hub for all there support.