What do you like most about being a student-athlete at MSA?

I love that I can ride right after school with the same people that I hang out with during the academic day. Regardless of your workout for the day, there's always someone you can ride with. You also have the freedom to ride by yourself if you need to unwind or have a specific workout. Because I love being in nature and staying active, getting on the bike every day after school is helpful for my physical and mental health.

What is your favorite class at MSA and what do you like about it?

Out of the classes I am currently taking, my favorite class would be Applied Engineering 1 with Mr. Henry. I like this class because we spend most of the week working on hands-on projects. We have used engineering calculations to successfully build trebuchets, gliders, and rockets. Last semester I really enjoyed my Land Management class with Coach Guptill. We learned about the history of the school, worked on trails on campus that we use for cycling, and cut down and milled trees with a Wood-Mizer log mill.

What is your favorite race of the year and why?

My favorite road race of the year is the River Falls Road Race in Greenville County, South Carolina. This race was part of the Hincapie Spring Series and it was my first ever win on the road. The course featured a tight and twisty 9 kilometer circuit through the woods which we repeated 6 times. Every lap ended with a one kilometer climb where attacks would fly up the road. On the last lap, I was able to attack on the final climb with my teammate leading me out. The move stuck and I soloed the last two minutes to the finish. Although those were two of the most painful minutes that I have experienced on a bike, it was worth it to cross the finish line first with my teammates and coaches cheering me on.

What is your favorite training ride/route and why? 

My favorite training route is a challenging 60 mile loop that I made which takes you through Afton Mountain via an abandoned railway tunnel and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The route has some of the best views, steepest climbs, and fastest downhills in Virginia.

What are your pre-race rituals/routines?

While I don’t really have any pre race rituals, I make sure to hydrate well on the days leading up to the race and get as much sleep as possible. On race day, I always eat peanut butter and banana oatmeal which I have found works really well for me.

List 3 songs on your pre-race playlist:

I don’t usually listen to music before races. Being in a quiet environment before racing helps me calm pre-race nerves and stay focused.

Any other interesting things about you that you’d like to share?

I love planning epic rides. Last winter I took advantage of the flat roads and warm weather in Florida while on vacation and completed my first double century.