On The Pegs March 2020 - Volume 5 - Issue 3 | Page 113

On The Pegs
VOL. 5 ISSUE 3 - MARCH 2020
113
estly 3 girls in one house is an adventure everyday no matter what we do!
How much tougher is the competition in Spain and Europe in general than
we have here in America?
I think the competitiveness of Europe and America (stopped trial) is similar in a
sense that the obstacles and the sections are close in style. They definitely have
an edge over us because many of them ride full time and with a minder/coach
every single day. Also, they are much closer so to practice with someone to push
you is not hard. I believe we’re tough enough to compete with them it just takes a
big effort to throw yourself in and not be afraid to try new things.
What is the biggest difference in events in Spain and events in America?
A big difference is that they format the Spanish Championships to be extremely
similar to the World Championship. They have a qualification and section walk
on Saturday, tight time limits, long sections, live update results, and a serious
completive atmosphere. I personally believe the Spanish are so dominant in trials
due to the federation putting on events to push their riders and make them as
prepared as possible to ride European or World Championships.
From what you’ve learned, what things would you advise young riders
over here to work on?
I think its important early to have young riders become comfortable with being
in control of the bike when riding but most importantly while failing. Its not as
scary to try difficult things and to crash if you have a plan on how to save your-
self. Learning how to fall with a minder is extremely important as well. How to
give the bike away during failure, how to land when jumping down, how to not
send the bike, and other little things that will make a young rider less nervous
to improve. The goal is to get a zero and go up but trials is extremely mental so
the safer you are in the head the quicker the confidence and riding will improve.
Another skill that will bring up the level of any young rider quickly is being com-
fortable on the back wheel. Whether thats holding pressure over an obstacle or
rear wheel hopping, I think it’s a key to progressing most skills as they get better.
I would say that any skill is important as the next and to keep practicing a variety
no matter what, but I often think the “crashing” is overlooked as a skill! Lastly,
remembering the goal is fun but also to better yourself at an amazing sport!
Thanks Maddie, we all can’t wait to watch you ride this year. n