A handful of COTA riders were able to build on the momentum of the Dallesport event the very next weekend when they attended a clinic with six-time women ' s National Champion Louise Forsley .
The clinic was a marvelous opportunity for riders of all levels ( ranging from novice through advanced ) to expand their skills . The event was developed through a collaboration between Louise and fellow pro rider Kylee Sweeten . There were a limited number of spots at the clinic , and notably , around half of the attendees were women . One rider came all the way from Boise , Idaho for the opportunity to ride with these pros .
The clinic began with the basics of body positioning , balance , and turns in the morning . Then the group moved on to wheelies , floater turns , and obstacles by the afternoon . Day two added elements like hops and nose wheelies then finished off with hands on practice walking sections and selecting lines . At the end of day two , participants put their skills to the test on a sloped muddy section with multiple logs and a massive rock for those who dared take on the challenge . Louise displayed her skills by cleaning the rock and showing everyone how it was done .
Getting the perspective of two highly skilled professionals who could see what each rider was doing and offer tips helped everyone improve immensely . Louise broke down the skills into small pieces to help riders work through each element and build upon their successes . She adjusted obstacles or found alternatives to enable newer riders to build confidence and take on new challenges . Kylee provided insight and feedback to riders as well , sometimes noticing small details that had a huge impact on the successful execution of different maneuvers . She demonstrated and explained the multiple approaches to tackling different obstacles . Both riders were supportive , positive , and encouraging throughout the clinic . Thanks to the expert advice and coaching from Louise and Kylee , everyone got something out of the two-day clinic , regardless of where they started .
The opportunity to train with not just one , but two pro riders , doesn ’ t happen every day . Getting feedback from expert riders is an experience that can change the way you ride . This clinic did that , challenging riders to contend with slick conditions , tricky turns , large tires , rocks , and rushing creek sections all under the helpful guidance of Louise and Kylee . For women , when that opportunity is also a chance to work with two of the top women riders who offer support and encouragement , it is a spectacular experience .
ON THE PEGS // PAGE 144