2009 brings some big changes to the domestic MTB schedule with the creation of the new USproXCT, East Coast, and West Coast series'. When did you first hear about the new schedule and what were your first impressions? 

 

I started hearing about some sort of new series coming together early last year. There was buzz that the NMBS in its current form would be ending and something else would take it's place. When the schedule was released earlier this year, it looked pretty straightforward and seemed to be very similar to the previous incarnation of the NMBS.

 

Do you view this series as a step in the right direction for National Level MTB racing, or "same product, new packaging"?

 

Some positives with the new series are the new venue locations. I think, to take a page form the CX book, integrating existing successful events into a national series is the way to go, and this new series seems to be making an effort to do that, rather than create new events.

 

What is your thinking behind racing a full World Cup schedule this year and will we still see you at any UScup races? 

 

I will do 1-3 of the New series races. World Cup racing is the highest level, so I want to pursue that and see where it takes me. I have raced domestically for  5 or 6 years now, and after getting a taste of the WC scene last year, it has really captured my attention and focus. World Cup races and pretty exciting and new and I am excited to take on the new challenge.

 

What are your thoughts on the loss of the Semi Pro class and larger fields in the Pro Men?

 

I think it is a move in the right direction. Semi pro racing had gotten pretty watered down and was sort of a hiding place for sandbaggers. You just gotta ante up and giver with the big boys!

 

As a professional racer, would you like to see STXC be a part of the national series races? Super D as well?

 

STXC is a pretty fun event, and was great for spectators, which is why it was created. I think it should stick around. Its not very hard to put together a short track race, and it gives racers a back up plan if things go awry in the XC.

 

Leaving the ski slopes for more urban venues: good or bad?

 

i hate racing at Ski areas, because they are in the middle of no where and no one comes to watch. Moving to urban courses is my dream.

 

If Barry Wicks were in charge, what would his ideal MTB series look like?

 

XC and STXC races in NYC, SFO, Chicago, LA, Denver etc. Bring the races to the people. It might not be big mountain epics, but it would be rad.

 

Personal Goals for 2009 MTB?

 

Win BCBR again and try to get into the top 30 of the WC

  

What's so great about red heads?

 

They are hot