Event: Hibernia Spring Bash

Name: Caitlyn Tuel

City: Lyndell

State/Province: Pa

Country: US

Age: 16

CLASS +/or Age group: Women 34 and under

Category: Expert

Team: Shirk's Bike Shop

XC Race Bike: K2 full suspension

Tires: Panaracer

Conditions: Wonderful, sunny not too much breeze and really dry in most sections.

Email: btuel@aol.com

How was your fitness level going into this race?

Really good, I've been training all through the winter (going to spin class, running, swimming) so I felt pretty well prepared. I 'm also now on my high school's track team, I do the mile and 2 mile. That has really helped with my overall endurance I think.

Did you have any problems getting into the singletrack?

Yeah, I was really happy because I wasn't going out to win the race or anything, I just wanted to finish in the top six.

Were you strong from start to finish?

Yes, I tried to keep a really steady pace on all the laps, and crank it on the road sections.

When did you put the hammer down?

Probably on the road sections and especially on the hills, I knew that was where I could gain some time on the other racers.

Did you have any unusual problems?

No, I did drop my water bottle when I really needed a drink but that was nothing.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes, Don and all the volunteers did an excellent job, and deserve great thanks for all the things they did.

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

No, but I did have to ask a guy for a drink of his water when I dropped my bottle, I really needed a drink.

Anything you would like to add?

I would like to thank my coach Katie Compton for getting me ready for this, and my family and friends who did a great job cheering for me during the race.