Leila, 17, with El Grupo since January 2014
If I had Superpower: Shape shifting and Re-Filling
Favorite Band or song: Ed Sheeran or Bastille
Favorite Style of Riding: Road and Mountain Biking
Favorite Trip: Durango
Favorite Hobby: Photography
Favorite Bike Ride: Saguaro East
Favorite Dessert: Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Why do you like riding your bike?
It’s fun! I can get anywhere, if I wanted to.
Tell about the improvements you’ve gained in skills and character.
I can ride a bike a lot better than I used to and I can go a lot faster. I’ve gained confidence and the ability to talk to other people a little better than better. There’s always a lot of people around and it’s easier to talk to people.
How does El Grupo challenge you?
They make me work hard. They make me do things that I would probably never do by myself, like climb mountains. I like the challenge even though I feel like dying because it’s hard. When you’re going down, you’re like “I did it! I made it to the top! And now I get to go down.”
What are your goals with El Grupo?
Consistency is one of my goals- just to keep practicing. I want to get faster in the mountain bike races.
What are three things you’ve gained from El Grupo?
The ability to like riding my bike (before I didn’t like it), more confidence in myself, and new friends.
