Athletes
Monique van den Boogaart
Currently live in: Boulder, CO
Achieve athlete since: January 2023
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Just getting started so ask me again in 6 months!
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Long days on the bike and exploring new areas, ideally with friends.
My favorite bike is: I only have one bike right now so that's the one!
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is:
- Cycling 200 miles in a day with a friend
- Running Ultra Trail Mont Blanc
- Cycling from SF to LA in 4 days with friends
- Running Transrockies and the Hardrock loop over multiple days
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Mountain goat. I love spending time in the mountains.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
- I have never done a cycling race
- I grew up on a dairy farm
- I'm from the Netherlands but hate flat riding
My cycling specific goals include:
- Race a 200 mile event
- Multi day bike trip with a friend
- Get a new bike!
- Get top 10 on a climb in Boulder (need to do more research on what climb. Definitely not necessary but more a fun training goal).
Dante LoBue
Currently live in: San Jose, CA
Achieve athlete since: March 2022
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Getting to work with Jackson Duncan.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Going fast and the instagram pics.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Doing this sport knowing that there are many dangers but also many rewards.
My favorite bike is: Tarmac SL7. It’s the one bike to rule them all.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Cow. They are so peaceful and can be free in the farmland.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I love playing with legos.
In a head to head TT, I can beat Filippo Ganna.
I tinker with my TT position every day for hours and hours.
My cycling specific goals include:
I would like to win a few races and work on being a complete rider until I get my eight points for my cat 3 to 2 upgrade. Once I get my points, I plan to shift my training focus from being an “all rounder” to focusing on TT specific efforts for the district TT championship.
Jackson Huss
Currently live in: Mill Valley, CA
Achieve athlete since: July 2022
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: TBD
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: TBD
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: It’s fun to ride and see the results of training in races.
My favorite bike is: I like my hard tail because I can go fastest on it. It’s also more fun to ride.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: I got 6th place in a NICA race.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I would be a monkey because I would want to swing around on trees.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I’ve gotten bit by a sea turtle.
I can play guitar.
I have a cat.
My cycling specific goals include:
Top 5 in a NICA race this season.
Win a race next NICA season.
Improve overall skills in cycling.
I want get better in sprinting.
I want to get better at passing.
Lora Maes
Currently live in: Pacifica, CA
Achieve athlete since: September 2022
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The competitiveness of racing drives me to be the best I can be and challenge myself. Cycling has given me the opportunity to learn a new sport and connect to people within the cycling community.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: I have many accomplishments when I was running competitively but what I am most proud of is being able to come back from two crashes on my bike, one on a ride and the other in a race.
My favorite bike is: My 2020 Cannondale SuperSix EVO, it's fast and fun to ride. Electronic shifting and disc brakes are a dream.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..A horse - they are magical, beautiful animals and they are fast.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I am an identical twin
I love cats
I made all my own clothes in high school
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve my sprinting skills
Win 3 races in the spring road season
Improve my threshold by 5% by March 2023
Upgrade to Cat 3 by Feb 2023
Improve race instincts
Myke Nahorniak
Currently live in: San Anselmo, CA
Achieve athlete since: August 2022
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: TBD
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Riding with Dana.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The intense focus it requires.
My favorite bike is: My Tarmac. It's the best of all worlds and is incredibly light and fast.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Getting my 2 upgrade a month before my first kid was born :)
If I could be one animal I would be a…..A cheetah. They're so gracefully fast, but also nap a lot.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
Bill Clinton once stepped on my foot.
There are 11 bikes in my garage.
I used to smoke.
My cycling specific goals include:
Win a race in 2023.
Compete at nationals.
Do a mountain bike race in 2023.
Henry Slocum
Currently live in: Minneapolis, MN
Achieve athlete since: November 2022
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Being coached to accept and embrace more rest/active recovery, and the incredible stoke & excitement Adrian offers when it is time to compete!
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Community, satisfaction of seeing results from hard work, the challenge of doing something hard for basically no reason and without reward beyond knowing I can do hard things.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Finishing the Bear 100 (23,000ft climbing and consistently at/above 7,000ft) despite training exclusively in the flat midwest at basically sea level and nothing really going to plan on race day.
My favorite bike is: My Raleigh Tamland. I've been racing on it since 2016 and it has taken me on my most challenging and rewarding rides.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Red Fox. Nimble, playful, but still gets down to business.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false: I can't swim. I have an outhouse tattooed on my leg. I've met Shaquille O'Neil.
Luke Lee
Currently live in: Truckee, CA
Achieve athlete since: July 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: TBD
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: TBD
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Challenge, freedom, socializing, alone time, its universal, and it brings people together.
My favorite bike is: It changes; at the moment it’s my MTB, a Santa Cruz Hightower, because I love the challenge it provides up and down trails. My gravel bike comes 2nd as it gets me to more miles and over all terrain (Pivot Vault).
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: my first century ride (non organized) last year. Also, I competed in 24 hour adventure races in my early 20's.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..a sea Otter; they are always having fun and are cheeky and intelligent.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
Was born in New Zealand.
I have lived and worked in seven different countries.
I love the heat.
My cycling specific goals include:
Racing at Peter Stetina Paydirt gravel Race on Sept 11. I want to go into that event with confidence (fitness, nutrition, firm strategy). Finishing in the top 50% for age group would be awesome, and top 33% would be outstanding.
Alice Walton
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: April 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: just started so to be determined.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Not sure yet... but looking forward to it!
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I love cycling because of the way it allows me to explore, connect and engage with the outdoors and the world around me. I love racing for the thrill and how it allows me to compartmentalize and engage my competitive side.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Riding 236 miles in one day in 2020. Doing 5 rides over 150 miles between May and August 2020.
My favorite bike is: I'm in love with my new hardtail. It goes everywhere my gravel bike could go, but makes it all more fun!
If I could be one animal I would be a…..a dolphin. The grace and speed at which they move through water, solo or in a pack, is beautiful and reminds me of the best feelings of freedom achieved on a bike.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I have ridden to the top of Mt Etna (in Sicily) more times than I have ridden to the top of Mt Diablo.
My family backpacked portions of the JMT every summer growing up.
I moved to Europe for a job guiding cycling trips before I had ever clipped in on a bike
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve threshold by 10-15%
Win Grinduro for my age group
Place top 10 in a few elite gravel grinders
Race CX at an elite level in 2021 and qualify for Nationals
Matthew Marotto
Currently live in: Kentfield, CA
Achieve athlete since: March 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are:
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: having a coach and a program customized to my strengths and weaknesses.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: In cycling and racing, I most like how there is so much growth and progression which is incredibly rewarding overtime. I also try to spend as much time as I can outside so being able to enjoy nature through this incredible sport is another great upside.
My favorite bike is: My race bike is an Ibis DV9 and I would consider it my favorite bike because it is insanely fast up and down, it has modern geometry to handle everything from climbing to fall lines, it is light, and it is fun to ride.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Unfortunately due to Covid-19, I have not had the opportunity to race very much so my proudest sporting accomplishment is through running, where I came in first place doing the Stow Lake Stampede for the junior one mile race.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..snake because there are many to choose from and they all have unique abilities.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I have been Idaho.
I dislike coffee.
I have been gone to a rodeo.
My cycling specific goals include:
Race Cat 1 nationals in July and finish in the upper half.
In this year's NICA season, finish in the top ten every race.
Improve my ability to ride fast and efficiently over technical terrain and trails significantly by the end of Summer.
Compete in at least twelve races in 2021 to gain experience and, on a separate note, enjoy each one regardless of how I do.
Further learn my strengths and weaknesses as a rider and apply what I learn to racing throughout the year.
Carole Sykes
Currently live in: Burlingame, CA
Achieve athlete since: January 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: knowing Dana!
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Feeling fit and strong, the social aspects of the cycling community.
My favorite bike is: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL. Stiff, light, nimble and fits me the best.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is:
2nd Place in NCNCA District TT Championship CAT 4 Women - Sattley 2009.
3rd Place in Butterfly Crit CAT 4 Women in Pacific Grove 2009.
If I could be one animal I would be a: Horse. Strong, majestic and no wasted energy.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false: I am very mechanically minded and enjoy jumping out of planes without a parachute.
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve critical power by 15% compared to baseline by the end of 2021.
Do one metric century in 2021, COVID permitting.
Get a new road bike in 2021.
If I do the first 3, I will be happy and 2022 will contain more.
Tolan Doak Steele
Currently live in: Mill Valley, CA
Achieve athlete since: February 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: N/A - new achieve athlete
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: new athlete, but looking forward to professional advice, the structure of a plan, and the camaraderie of group riding.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: mechanical advantage / leverage of combining my body fitness with an efficient machine; the feeling of topping out on a long climb; incremental gains.
My favorite bike is: my road bike (2015 Specialized Roubaix)
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: various long days in the saddle (up to 200kms distance, over 2000m climbing) or hiking or rock climbing
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I'd love to say some type of raptor bird, but the basic truth is - like my Chinese zodiac - dog
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I've lived in Pakistan, W Germany, and Singapore
I am SCUBA certified
I have ridden the Olympic bobsled track in SLC
My cycling specific goals include:
Raise my FTP by 10% by August 2021; Achieve and maintain 4.25 watts / kg in 2021
Strava segment targets: The whole Tam thing (<1hr); Old RR Grade to WPI (<35min); Paradise Dr (clockwise) (<20min): Camino Alto (<5min)
Improve downhill control on dirt / gravel
Have a 3000m day in the saddle
Matt Adams
Currently live in: Fairfax, CA
Achieve athlete since: Aug 2021 (Nov 2013 - Dec 2016)
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: Winning the USA Cycling National Criterium Championship (40-44) in 2016 and leading out my team mate for Cat's Hill Classic win.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: the structure and success.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: being fit enough to "play" racing.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: 2016 National Criterium Championship (40-44)
My favorite bike is: oof, that’s like asking me which one of my children is my favorite.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Some sort of bird, I love flying.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I play the saxophone
I've been chased by an elephant
My nickname is Uncle Rico
My cycling specific goals include:
Podium the Sea Otter Circuit Race and MTB race
General speed and fitness to be strong in local fast group rides
Carry fitness through the winter to attempt Leadville and a few other gravel events
Tannon Blankenship
Currently live in: Mountain View, CA
Achieve athlete since: June 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: waking up motivated to ride.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: the work outs are easy to follow and make since. Additionally, it’s nice having a coach with similar fitness and goals.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The freedom of riding from my door any where I want to go. It gets me outside where I can enjoy nature and stunning views. For racing, I love the drive to constantly get stronger. It’s tough to beat the feeling of finishing a race and knowing I gave it my absolute best whether winning or last place.
My favorite bike is: My aluminum rim brake road bike because it’s indestructible and easy to work on.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Upgrading to Cat 1.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..fat lazy dog; I’d have no cares in the world other than eating and sleeping.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I grew up in Richmond, Virginia
I have a pet pig
I was the 6114630 person to open a Strava account
My cycling specific goals include:
Top 5 at TT Nationals in 2022.
Being competitive at Sea Otter Classic in October 2021.
Craig Dillon
Currently live in: San Jose, CA
Achieve athlete since: March 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: n/a
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I love the freedom that a bike gives me, especially when I can do that in the woods. I really enjoy cyclocross racing for the varied terrain and short, all out efforts.
My favorite bike is: Specialized Epic Evo. It fits my riding style of XC at speed, with not a lot squish.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: My first 50 mile mountain bike race in 2003 back in Vermont. Mainly because it was the longest mtb ride I'd ever done and I beat all my friends.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Chimpanzee. Swinging in the trees seems fun.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I like black licorice.
I nodded at Howie Mandel and he nodded back.
I like heights.
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve power by 10%.
Climb Sierra Road in less than 30 min.
Complete PayDirt Fondo in September.
Podium in Cyclocross Bs race this fall.
John Pettigrew
Currently live in: San Anselmo, CA
Achieve athlete since: January 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: n/a
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Racing: during a race I like learning that my potential and strength is so much more than I gave myself credit for.
My favorite bike is: my road bike.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: I ran the Cheesebro Trail 1/2 marathon in under 1:40.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Dog; a simple happy life, always taken care of and loved by family.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I was unconscious in a Mexican hospital 1 year ago this time,
I fractured a vertebrae the first time I attempted a back flip (on skis back country in the Sierra Nevada’s)
I tried to start a business importing apples into Angola from South Africa.
My cycling specific goals include:
to be determined
Jamie Knowlton
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: October 2017
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: n/a
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Going fast (up and down). Nailing a technical mountain bike descent. Going deep and pushing myself. Feeling proud of my efforts. Spending time outside in beautiful places. Hanging out with friends, and in races hopefully beating them 🙂
My favorite bike is: My (2015) Pivot Mach 429SL mountain bike… best mountain bike I’ve owned — it rips the ups and the downs. Had some awesome adventures with it, namely BC Bike Race (2015) and a backcountry trip to the South Chilcotin Range in BC (2016).
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Top 100 finish at BC Bike Race in 2015? Haven’t been too results oriented in the past. Looking to get some in 2018 though, hence the decision to start training with Achieve!
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Wolf. Lots of time roaming beautiful wilderness, eating what you kill (i.e. hunter) but part of a tight pack/community that all relies on one another, strong leader (alpha).
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I used to be a DJ.
I’ve been barreled (surfing).
I built a chairlift.
My cycling specific goals include:
1Achieve top 5 for my age group in the 2017 Lost Sierra Triple Crown
Win my age group overall for the Grasshopper Adventure Series in 2018
Win my (age) category of a bike race in 2018.
Improve my sprinting ability – road bike or cx.
Learn and execute race tactics
Dana Martin
Currently live in: San Anselmo
Achieve athlete since: October 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: Getting with the Achieve system and getting organized and getting my winter training underway for an awesome season.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Dana's coaching style. I appreciate that he really dials in on the skills I feel could be improved and he makes himself accessible when I have questions or concerns, and communicating with him is easy - he asks probing questions and helps me focus.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The structure training brings to my life helps me manage stress and channel energy in healthy ways.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Upgrading to a Cat 1 in just three years of racing.
If I could be one animal I would be…..An Eagle - go anywhere fast and see everything while soaring :)
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I was a competitive band majorette in high school.
I once was knocked off my bike by a cow.
I lived in Italy for 3 years.
My cycling specific goals include:
Win as many races as possible personally or by helping teammates.
In 2014 season, work on mental focus and confidence.
By September 1, complete a solo road race finish win or two.
Compete at Master's Nationals, make the podium.
Improve my cornering and descending skills.
Alex Canonizado
Currently live in: San Bruno, CA
Achieve athlete since: January 2021
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: n/a
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Descending
My favorite bike is: Specialized Tarmac
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Playing ultimate frisbee at a high level.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..a fish….just keep swimming
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I lived in the Phillippines for 10 years .
I played Football as a kid.
Music is silly.
My cycling specific goals include:
Complete a century ride
Build more endurance
Feel comfortable racing a crit
Ride Old la Honda in under 20 minutes
Richard leBrasseur
Currently live in: Truro, Nova Scotia
Achieve athlete since: December 2020
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Coach Ryan
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: feeling of accomplishment
My favorite bike is: LOOK 586 ISP 2012 - stiff tight carbon
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: 1010 power output 2019; beat continental racers; cycled 80% cols in France.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Eagle - fly and see landscapes
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I used to be a freerider in Vancouver.
I walked ½ hour on a dirt road to the bus stop.
I opened a can of beans with my teeth.
My cycling specific goals include:
to be determined
Trevor Gilmore
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: 2016
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete is: is sticking to goals and increasing FTP by 15%!.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Completing my first century bike ride in 2011. I wanted a more active outdoor lifestyle, so I bought a used bike on craigslist and signed up for the Napa Valley Tour De Cure with my boss at the time. I had no idea what I was doing in the beginning but the freedom you feel outside and the training had me hooked. Then, I won my first Cat 5 race in 2015, the Mt. Tam Hill Climb, and the rest is history!
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: being outdoors and challenging myself.
My favorite bike is: my white Look ProTeam
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: soon to be updated.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..soon to be updated.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I’ve ridden at least one double century
When I was young, I wanted to be both a lawyer and car designer, and envisioned flying to Detroit each day on something that resembles a flying bike
I’m a California native
My cycling specific goals include: TBD
Jeremy Dossetter
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: October 2013.
Jeremy passed away in 2017. This profile celebrates his memory.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I love the fact that 23mm of rubber separates me from the ground when I'm going 45mph+ downhill. Also, when the stars align on race day and everything just flows. A post-race Coca-Cola is pretty hard to beat too.
My favorite bike is: My BMC RM01. I've ridden and raced it abroad, throughout the US, through sun, rain, hail, snow, dirt, and pretty much everything else. It also likes to go really fast, which is nice.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Placing 5th on the final stage of the Cascade Cycling Classic in Bend, OR and 12th overall last season. I proved to myself I could up my game.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..My Chinese spirit animal is a horse, so I guess I'd be one of them. They're strong and humble, which are qualities I admire and strive towards.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I climbed the Grand Teton in one day. It took 14 hours straight over 14,000 vertical feet of elevation. The steak and beer after tasted like victory.
I can down an entire bottle of Sriracha in one sitting.
I've been to Kazakhstan.
My cycling specific goals include:
Five top fives in 2014.
Podium in a stage race.
Win a target race.
Increase my FTP by 15%.
Crush a TT.
Jeff Eisenberg
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: October 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete is: Realizing I can do more.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Discovering my weaknesses that I need to work on.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The difficulty of doing well in races. Doing well in them.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Having time to ride... sometimes.
My cycling specific goals include: Race as a team and get some top placings.
Dylan Johnson
Currently live in: Sausalito, CA
Achieve athlete since: December 2015
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: For me cycling is a lifestyle. It just crept up on me and one day I decided I couldn't do without it. I like the sound tires make on smooth tarmac, I like the smell of the eucalyptus trees, the views , the fresh air, the people and the tired legs at the end of a long day.
My favorite bike is: Giant TCR Advanced with 303's - It’s sky blue, what’s not to love!
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Completely dismantling my 10-speed aged 8. It never made made it out on the road again… :/
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Probably a great white shark, only because they have a pretty good chance of not being hit by a car or eaten by something else.
Of the following three facts, three are true and one is false:
I love Marmite.
I can talk to the animals.
I can't swim.
I cook a mean curry.
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve sustainable average speed incrementally.
Improve descending.
Improve my general bike handling.
Compete in some sanctioned races.
Know, understand, and maintain my bike and what makes it suitable for certain conditions and terrain.
Dean Pogni
Currently live in: Mill Valley, CA
Achieve athlete since: November 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete is: I'm a newbie, Dana did buy me a beer though!
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Nothing yet, I'm new here.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I really enjoy the sense of accomplishment I get from cycling. I enjoy the quick gains like getting personal record, but also long term gains, like becoming faster than my friends. :)
My favorite bike is: My MTB because all the amazing places to explore around Marin.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: I was lucky enough to climb Haleakala. Descending for over an hour was the best part though!
If I could be one animal I would be a…..An eagle, flying seems pretty sweet.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
Was a skateboarder.
Graduated top of my class in high school.
Have a little dog named Chico.
My cycling specific goals include:
Overall, my goal is to add more structure into my riding schedule. I believe I'm riding a lot, but quickly reaching a plateau on fitness.
I want to learn better road/crit race strategy. Overconfidence from wins in my first year racing lead to bad decisions in cat 4. The chicken ride and other group rides have helped, but there's always more to learn.
I want to cat up to the 3's this season and be on my way towards 2's.
I want to be a strong contender in a few key races: Copperopolis, Tamarancho MTB, Berkeley Hills, San Rafael Crit, Tahoe 100k, Giro of SF
Eamon Tucker
Currently live in: Mill Valley, CA
Achieve athlete since: January 2016
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Riding bikes has given me the opportunity to see things that most people never have the opportunity to see; countless sunrises rising over the headlands, sunsets falling over the pacific, fog slipping through trees. It is a source of both pure adrenaline and pure serenity, of both competition and mellow time with friends......lucky us.
My favorite bike is: My single speed Pivot Les. It is an amazingly capable mountain bike. It goes like crazy going up hill and rips going down. It's also really pretty.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Just consistently staying on the bike over the last number of years, even when life gets lifey. I've averaged over 1k a day of climbing for a good number of years, almost all on dirt and often on a single speed.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..Mountain Lion - The King of Mt Tam!
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I spent a summer working as a butler in Northern Scotland, wearing a kilt to work every day.
I lived out of the back of a car/tent for almost a year.
I can dunk.
My cycling specific goals include:
My #1 goal is to just be stronger/faster and with better endurance.
Podium in a Sport MTB Race this season.
Stop cramping in races.
Get more comfortable in groups on my road bike.
Claudia Campazzo
Currently live in: Fairfax, CA
Achieve athlete since: January 2016
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I get a huge sense of accomplishment whenever I do a hard ride, climb, or race.
My favorite bike is: My current bike is the best bike I've ever had. I absolutely love how responsive it is, and the colors match my kit.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: I started racing last year, and my goal was not to get dropped. Without any training, not only did I not get dropped, but I made it to the podium a few times. I'm proud and surprised!
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I'm torn. I would either be a dolphin, because I love to swim and dolphins are very playful. Or I would be an eagle, because it must be so amazing to fly and have huge wings.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I have been to the Playboy mansion
I have played concerts at Carnegie Hall.
I have been to Stinson beach.
My cycling specific goals include:
Five top three finishes in 2016
Upgrade to Cat 3 by May 2017
Improve my bike handling skills.
Erin Stone
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: April 2016
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I love competing and pushing myself beyond what I think I am capable of. Bay Area views from the bike aren't bad either.
My favorite bike is: It's a tie between my two Rock Lobster CX bikes: my hot pink geared bike because it was built just for me, and the single speed I inherited from my husband because racing single speed is the most fun, and because it's purple.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Winning the Bay Area Super Prestige night race women's B category on my single speed in 2014.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I think one of those sneaky indoor/outdoor cats who gets fed by multiple homes-because second breakfast.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I am an identical twin
I love beets
I once broke my leg ice skating
My cycling specific goals include:
Finish in the top half of the field in most Elite CX races in 2016
Improve skill and confidence cornering and descending on dirt
Improve overall climbing strength (so pretty much PR all the climbs)
Win CX Districts in single speed category
STRETCHIEST goal: Podium at CX Nationals in the single speed category
Gustavo Tagliari
Currently live in: San Rafael, CA.
Achieve athlete since: June 2016.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The thing that I like most about cycling is the feeling of accomplishment after every ride or race. I like to see how much I was able to improve.
My favorite bike is: My favorite bike so far is the Specialized Stumpjumper Expert World Cup, because its the bike I'm currently racing in and the bike that got me to my first podium last year.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: The cycling accomplishment that I'm most proud of was the last State Championship. I finished in 13th. But I'm not especially proud of the position I got. I'm proud because I put everything I had out there. I was able to beat most of my NorCal competition and was able to keep up with Ben Cook for an epic sprint in the end.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I would like to be a Penguin, because that's how I look when I'm walking in my cycling shoes.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I currently go to San Rafael High School.
I have meet Jens Voigt and Ted King.
I hate chocolate.
My cycling specific goals include:
Get top 3 in the upcoming NorCal season in Varsity.
Do my first road race as soon as possible and move up in the Categories.
Improve my threshold power by at least 15% before the MTB season.
Improve my downhill skills on the MTB.
Race in Nationals next year.
Josh Ferenc
Currently live in: San Francisco
Achieve athlete since: May 2014
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: I love the freedom of riding fast on my bike and exploring new places. I often take my bikes on business trips so I can see the area on two wheels. In racing, I like the feeling when my training pays off and I am able to ride away from my competition. It makes the suffering I did in training all worth it.
My favorite bike is: My Pinarello Dogma. It's an amazing ride and it's flourescent yellow - 80's style baby!
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: 3rd place and winning the bunch sprint at Copperopolis Cat 4 35+ 2012 and winning my first Mountain Bike race in 2013 at CCCX Ft Ord in Cat 3
If I could be one animal I would be a…..A cheetah because nobody could catch me.
Of the following three facts, three are true and one is false:
I first raced bicycles in High School.
I went from last place in my first race to first place at the championships.
My dog Jasper is cool as a cucumber.
I am a former UFC champion.
My cycling specific goals include:
Place top 3 in a Cat 2 35-39 CCCX XC MTB race on 7/19 or 8/23
Place top 10 in Mt Tam Hillclimb Cat 4
Competitively ride Col du Pantoll & Chicken Ride with the front group by 7/15
6:55 "Hawk Hill" Strava time by 9/1 5.
19:00 "Old La Honda Bridge to Mailboxes" Strava time in 2014
Chris Furia
Currently live in: San Rafael, CA
Achieve athlete since: June 2018
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is:
-The ability to get away from the stress and problem solving of my job; to turn off my mind and have a laser focus on my breathing, my pedaling; my goal.
-The endorphins of riding at speed whether in the flats or descending.
The camaraderie of like-minded cyclists and friends I ride with.
Reviewing the data and analyzing what it means relative to my efforts and experience while on the bike.
-The speed.
-The feel of a great bike beneath me; that what I put into it, I get out in speed.
-Cornering
My favorite bike is: S-Works Tarmac disc Close second: Emonda SLR9 P1
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: 5:46 century at 6k elevation with climbing.
If I could be one animal I would be a….A labrador retriever because I want my dog's life.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I have lived all over the world.
I used to be a multi-substance drug addict but have been sober 28 years.
I love mountain biking.
My cycling specific goals include:
Be able to climb 10-12k feet on a single ride in one day
Solve leg cramping issue on longer (over 4hr) endurance rides
10% or more improvement in FTP
Break all my local climbing PR's by a factor of 10% or more (Hawk Hill, Tam, Diablo).
Ride a 5:15 or less century (moving time; current PR 5:46)
Steven Tortorelli
Currently live in: San Francisco
Achieve athlete since: February 2019
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: n/a
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: n/a
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: The competitiveness and tactics it takes to be great at riding/racing. Pushing myself past my comfort zone and continuing to learn from it.
My favorite bike is: Cannondale SuperSix Evo and Cannondale Super-X. The Evo was the first bike that made me feel extremely fast and confident on a bike for road racing. I built it up how I wanted to and with matching new parts. The Super-X was my first official CX bike and it has been nothing but a pleasure to race and ride.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: As a Cat3, I found my skill at marking certain individuals and working with others to make a break successful, or sit in to make an attack. That really made me excited about racing. I feel that was an accomplishment that many miss. I had been on the podium quite a bit while as a Cat3. The only moment I am proud of was winning the last event at Folsom cyclebration. Myself and a 35+ guy went off the front with 5 to go.. Each lap I believe was 3miles? He completely burnt his matches with a mile to go and would not get off my wheel. The groupetto was getting closer and I took off with 700m to go. That was the only race I’ve won in my career.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..I would be an Australian Shepard. I would want to be a legit sheep herding dog in Australia or England. Be raised to protect and keep the animals in order. It’s cool how agile they are and how loyal they are to their family. That’s the kind of animal I would be.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I play instrumental hiphop playlists on repeat for days.
I weirdly enjoy intervals.
I was an underwear model in Monaco in the late 80’s.
My cycling specific goals include:
Get my fitness to a level that I can be competitive and be able to sustain long efforts. I.E. Long gravel rides and an hour of CX racing, or the occasional 5+ hour road ride…. Maybe.
Dial in my diet. I do find myself not consuming enough of the power foods that will help me on and off the bike. This will include hydration.
STRETCHING… I don’t/ have been horrible at doing it.
Cesar Guillen
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: April 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: Fully recovering from being hit by a car in May.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: soon to be updated.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: soon to be updated.
My favorite bike is: soon to be updated.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: soon to be updated.
If I could be one animal I would be a…..soon to be updated.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false: soon to be updated.
My cycling specific goals include: soon to be updated.
Eric Davis
Currently live in: Novato, CA
Achieve athlete since: October 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: 4th Original Merced Criterium, and getting my workouts in.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Having a plan that fits with my busy lifestyle.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Everything.
My favorite bike is: My Specialized SL3, for its stiff yet supple handling.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is:
My 2nd place at the Alpine Valley Road Race during Superweek in Winsconsin in 2005.
If I could be one animal I would be a: Wolf, for its majesty.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I once considered joining the Marines so that I could study Russian. My left leg is slightly shorter than my right. My favorite movie is "400 Blows" and no, its not what you think it is.
My cycling specific goals include:
Win the Santa Cruz Crit (Masters 35)
Finish on the podium at the Red Crit Series Overall (Masters 35).
Top 10 result at Masters Nationals (Crit).
Max 1600 5sec sprint
Upgrade to Cat 1 by Spring 2015
Megan Alderete
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: April 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are:
Upgraded to Cat 2 during my first cycling season and feeling way more comfortable with my bike handling skills.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is:
It's fun and I get to grow my cycling knowledge and skills.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is:
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Cycling makes me feel alive. It's invigorating, and I get to explore the outdoors and all the bay area has to offer. Cycling makes me smile. I don't think I can ride without smiling.
My favorite bike is: Bernadette! My white Specialized Amira named after my childhood horse Bernie, a white Arabian.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Upgrading to Cat 2 in one season.
If I could be one animal I would be a: Tough decision. I'd like to soar with ease like a golden eagle, but I'd also like to be powerful and majestic like a lion or tiger.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I love to sunbathe
I wish I could dance on Dancing with the Stars
I rode a hot pink bike with a basket and bell in college
My cycling specific goals include:
Upgrade to Cat 1 in 2014
Develop a killer sprint and work on fast twitch muscles /surging
Learn how to time trial well..top 25% in TTs by June 2014
Stay fresh for the season
Ian Conover
Currently live in: Petaluma, CA
Achieve athlete since: September 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are: Soon to be updated.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Having a structured ride schedule to help me accomplish my goals.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Speed, team work and recovery food.
My favourite bike is: My Specialized Crux because it allows me to ride where ever I want or my friends want to take me, on or off road. But my S-Works Venge gives the gift of free speed.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: 3rd place at 2012 Santa Rosa CX Cup series final.
If I could be one animal I would be a: A dog, probably a working dog of some kind. Their really good at intervals.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false:
I manage Mike's Bikes Petaluma.
I have a brown dog named Pebbles.
I am the oldest of three siblings.
My cycling specific goals include:
Improve my 5sec and 1min average power by 10%.
Cyclocross: Finish consistently in the top third of the field. Podium in one or two races.
Be stong enough to help secure podium finishes for teammates as well as myself to earn upgrade points.
Richard Meade
Currently live in: San Francisco, CA
Achieve athlete since: February - September 2013
Top accomplishments and/or results since being an Achieve athlete are:
Four podiums during the 2013 season.
Upgrade from Cat 5 to 4.
The best part about being an Achieve athlete is: Soon to be updated.
The aspect I like most about cycling and/or racing is: Soon to be updated.
My favourite bike is: Soon to be updated.
The cycling/sporting accomplishment I'm most proud of is: Soon to be updated.
If I could be one animal I would be a: Soon to be updated.
Of the following three facts, two are true and one is false: Soon to be updated.
My cycling specific goals include:Soon to be updated.