Cole, 15, with El Grupo since 2012

 

If I had a superpower, it would be: Obviously telekinesis.

Hidden Talent: Geniusness

Favorite Pandora Station: Riff Raff or Dub Step

Favorite Style of Riding: Both

Favorite Trip: Durango, Mt Graham

Favorite Hobby: Anything Innovation or Entrepreneurship Related

Favorite Ride: Shootout

Quotable Quote by Ignacio: Do or do not. There is no try. –Yoda

Favorite Dessert: Rhubarb Pie

 

Why do you like riding your bike?

It’s pretty fun and relaxing, but mainly because it’s a challenge. I personally think that this is one of the harder sports, because you know in football each play is like 13 seconds but cycling is 4 hours. I think it gives me more of a challenge!

 

How does El Grupo challenge you?

I feel like El Grupo is pretty challenging because Ignacio is telling you to harder and faster- to suck it up pretty much. I like that a fair amount.

 

How do you face those challenges?

Will Smith puts it great by saying “You’re not going to die on a treadmill.” Never be afraid to go too hard, because the worst that could happen is that you start breathing hard. I never see it being a problem going harder, just a little more pain.

 

Can you compare your skills and character from when you first started riding until now?

I was extremely scared when I first came. I was looking at everybody like almost gods. I thought I was the coolest thing with a giant jersey on, totally dirty and everything with flats. I look back and think how far I’ve come. Now, I don’t even worry much. I feel so much more confident.

 

What are your goals with El Grupo?

I want to win the high school mountain bike race. I want to do my best and kill it in the race- that’s my main focus.

 

What are three things you’ve gained in El Grupo?

Community

Confidence on the bike

A bunch of friends

 

What does El Grupo mean to you?

It’s such an under appreciated sport but I’d say it’s the hardest, most fun loving community you can find in a sport. We practice a lot of hours throughout the week and we talk on the bikes and become much closer in a community like this.