Heather catching some air at Booker T.

Where is your homebase, Heather?

Chattanooga, TN

What type of races do you enjoy?

Mountain Biking

What have been your 5 race highlights so far?

2013 – Pick Your Poison – First mountain bike race
2013 – Raccoon Mountain XC – Most physically challenging race
2014 – Raisin Woods – Chainbuster 3 hour endurance 2nd place
2014 – Night Shift 6 hours of TNT – Night race duo 1st place
2014 – Black Bear Rampage 40 mile – Longest race and 3rd place

What is a cycling dream of yours?

To earn a first place podium spot! I also want to start riding in some longer more challenging races. Also to do a bike/camp trip would be lots of fun!

What is your favorite place to be around Chattanooga?

I love the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge for hiking and creek sitting with my dog. Pretty much all the mountain bike trails are on the top of my favorite places list. I especially enjoy Raccoon Mountain and White Oak Mountain is quickly becoming another local trail favorite. Enterprise South Nature Park also has a pretty special place in my heart. That’s where I first learned to ride!

What has been your best moment on the bike so far this year?

The moment when I rode through the finish line at the Black Bear Rampage 40 miler this year. I never thought I was going to see the end of that trail and just kept hearing people screaming somewhere nearby. Finally coming out of the woods and knowing I was almost finished felt really, really good! The next best moment was realizing I got 3rd place for my category! It was a good day.

What is the first cycling memory you have?

Being pushed by my dad down a hill on my banana seat bike (complete with a white basket and streamers). I screamed the whole time. I still scream just like that when I ride! Every time I get on my bike I feel like a little kid again.

What is your favorite piece of gear?

Trek Superfly.

Why do you like to ride & work-out with other women?

I like being pushed by friendly competition and knowing that the women I ride and play with have common interests and personal physical goals. It’s very motivating and inspiring to see my friends succeed!

What has been your best moment with the Velo Vixens so far?

Race day! It doesn’t get any better than riding along side my friends.

What’s your advice for a future Velo Vixen?

If you enjoy being active there’s something for you here. Support, friendship, motivation, and fun! I’m so happy I joined.

Raccoon Mountain, Chunky Rock session