Date: September 17, 2000
Event: Terror of Teaberry XC 2000
Class: Senior
Category: Expert / Pro
Length: 23+
Time: 1:56:42
Conditions: Sunny - 70 degrees
Bike: 853 steel frame, XT-XTR mix of components, Mavic Cross-max tubeless wheels, old Manitou SX-Ti fork, and a variety of old used parts.
Tires: Hutchinson tubeless tires

Did you do anything special (apart from the whole training lifestyle) to prepare for this race?

Nothing special to prepare for the race, in fact, I only had 5 hours of sleep the night before and minimal training.

Were you strong from start to finish?

I felt strong in the middle of the race, started out a bit slow, and finished feeling OK.

Do you feel like you made up for your bad luck at the Michaux Ironmasters 2000 where you ripped your sidewall early on and had to DNF by taking 1st Place Pro Overall in this race?

I still would have liked to finish the Ironmaster's race. I ride well at Michaux and like to do well there, this certainly helped, but it doesn't take away that painful memory.

What part of the course was the most fun for you?

The part of the course I enjoyed the most was Rock Ridge trail. It was challenging, rocky and frustrating all at the same time.

When did you put the hammer down?

I put the hammer down when I saw Chris Eatough flat.

Did you have any unusual problems?

No unusual problems.

How would you rate the course?

I'd give the course a "9" for difficulty, and a "7" for enjoyability to the rider.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes, I was happy with the way the race was run.

If you could do the race again, would you do anything differently?

I can't really think of much to change....you can't complain when you're winning.

The race promoter seems to be very interested in having a real "mountain biker's" mountain bike race series utilizing probably the most challenging single-track on the East Coast (Michaux) next year. Are you excited about this?

I'm excited for any race at Michaux, as long as the courses are kept reasonable in length, around 2.5 hours or less.

Anything you'd like to add?

The only thing that I have to add, is that you may see a little less of me until late spring next year. I began graduate school on a half-time basis, in addition to my 40 hour a week job. I'm at a point where I'm trying to reprioritise my life, but I just can't let go of bikes and racing, it's been such a habit that I can't let it go. I guess my racing will depend on what sponsorship is available for next year as well.

Thanks for the the interview Dave we really appreciate your time.... 40 hours of work.... plus school.... you are an inspiration!