So, after having racing Fontana for 4 years, the last 2 being in the Expert Women 35+ class, I decided to step up and race the pro class. I was a little apprehensive being 50 and all but decided, what the heck. I was the 1st one in the class to start and the 2nd class on the roster. I had a great run, hit all my lines and made no mistakes. It was an exhilarating experience and I am looking forward to racing the SRC Winter Series starting in January. Here's the top 10 DH Women's list from Mountain Bike Action. Not bad for a 50 year old!

TOP 10 DH WOMEN

1. Lauren Peterson...Pro...2:44.28

2. Rowena Spence...Exp 34-...3:15.28

3. Nancy Harris...Pro...3:26.61

4. Erika Joehnck...Exp 34-...3:27.84

5. Kim Gilchrist...Exp 35+...3:45.80

6. Laura Drexler...Exp 35+...3:51.97

7. Mandy Oliekan...Beg 19-34...4:11.13

8. Alyssa Crank...Beg 13-18...4:32.39

9. Katie Watts...Beg 13-18...4:39.39

10. Carla Bray...Beg 35-44...7:32.10

Photo

• Rock Garden

For the last 4 years (2003-2006) I had the privilege to race for No Brakes Racing, a multi-sport team founded in Arizona. They are a great group and have become part of my ever expanding family of mountain bikers. You can visit their web site at www.nobrakes-racing.com.

For 2007 I will be racing for a new team sponsored by The Path Bike Shop in Tustin, CA. This will be their 1st year with their own team and I am very excited to become their Ambassador at the races and out on the trail. You can visit their web site at http://www.thepathbikeshop.com.

I have also spent the last 5 months training with James Wilson, owner of MTB Strength Training. I look forward to the 2007 season and I am anxious to see how well the training pays off. You can visit his web site at http://www.mtbstrengthcoach.com.