Rachel Throop Interview

Name: Rachel Throop     

Age: 24         

Residence: Costa Mesa, CA

Occupation: Professional Mountain bike racer

Tell us a bit about your racing background. 

At age 10 I competed in my first mountain bike race in Big Bear, CA. My background until this year had been purely XC racing and riding. I always had this curiosity to compete in more gravity type events though, so Enduro racing made perfect sense.

What are some of the highlights of your career so far?

In 2006, I became the U.S. National MTB XC Junior Champion, and represented the USA at the World Championships in New Zealand. That was definitely a highlight.

What are your future goals or things you'd like to achieve?

I would like to podium at a World Enduro Race, hopefully in the top spot and also compete in the Mega Avalanche.

Which female racer do you admire the most and why?

Anne Caroline Chausson for her raw talent and fierce competitiveness.

What are your favorite trails locally?

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love T&A in the Laguna Wilderness park. I also love Lizard, Marie Calendars, and Marshmallow.

If you could ride anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Damn, that’s a good question. Seeing Sven Martin’s pictures of the riding in the Alpes always makes me jealous, but the riding I did in Rotorua, New Zealand was also super rad. So either of those I would be super excited about!

Do you prefer headphones or the sound of nature when your riding?

Depends on the ride. Training ride, definitely head phones. Keeps me motivated.

Best thing about working for Crankbrothers?

Crankbrothers offers so much flexibility and support when I am racing. I am also surrounded by other bike enthusiasts like myself which is awesome!

Worst thing about working for Crankbrothers?

The parking. Laguna Beach is beautiful, but the parking is scarce.

Song that gets the most plays lately?

I am stuck on the following two songs!

Royals by Lorde

Paradise Circus by Massive Attack, but the Gui Boratto remix

Coffee or tea?

Chai Tea

Favorite food?

Carne Asada Tacos

Biggest pet peeve while driving?

People not using their blinker. Grrrr, they make me mad!

Outside of riding your mountain bike, how do you spend your "leisure" time?

There are other things to do besides ride your bike???! Only kidding. I like going out with my girlfriends, hanging out with my man, and perfecting my ability to croquet beer cozies and beanies.

Got any funny youtube videos you want to share with us?

These fishing show bloopers get me every time...