While I’ve ridden a bike here and there since college, I have only recently made the transition from mountain bike owner to mountain biker. And by the judging standards of my last bike, some folks might say that I have only recently become a mountain bike owner. (They would be wrong of course.)

I’m a Class V kayaker and raft guide by nature.  When I was first introduced to whitewater, I was instantly hooked by the power and beauty of the mountains, the excitement of running rapids, and the friends and lifestyle that accompanied it all.  Fifteen years later, the adventures have evolved, but the passion remains true.  Kayaking has always offered a sense of personal satisfaction and sanity that can only be found in few realms- skiing for some time, and now mountain biking.

When I first started riding on a consistent basis, there were several aspects of the sport that appealed to me. It initially reminded me of being a Class III-IV kayaker. Still exploring the beauty of the mountains, but experiencing a transitional stage where you didn’t have it all mastered. The pure challenge of climbing hills, hopping logs, and staying upright on a technical downhill was addicting. Just like those first days on the river, I was ending each ride with a big smile.

The logistics for mountain biking were much easier than kayaking too- no shuttle, no aborted missions if you couldn’t find someone to go. Just pick a trail and go ride. When it comes to adventure sports, it just doesn’t get much simpler than that.

Finally, it occurred to me that mountain biking is the perfect complement to kayaking.  Rain or shine, I’ve got options.  Poor conditions for one often offer ideal conditions for the other.

With the formation of Team WELD-NRB, I have now committed myself to the world of racing.  While my lungs will probably question the wisdom of this decision for quite a while, I’m already enjoying a level of fitness that I have not experienced for some time.  With my first mountain bike race in the books, I have officially been introduced to a sport surrounded by enthusiastic folks with positive energy, getting together every weekend because they simply love riding bikes in natural terrain.  I can appreciate that and I’m encouraged to be a part of it.