The saying goes "behind every good man is a good woman" and that's fitting with Michelle as our next interviewee following her husband Erik's interview. Another cyclist who also races cars, Michelle started racing bikes for CSU in college. Since then she's primarily been a road biker but has slowly been converting over to the dirt. Last year she showed her strength winning the Winter Park Hill Climb for the Beginner 19-29 women. She is also sporting a new Yeti 575 to help tame all those rocks and roots off road. In addition to her spreading her wings into the mountain bike arena, Michelle also did an excellect job racing with the team last year at the Cherry Creek time trial series. This year she's battling a neck injury and trying to get healthy but I know she's looking very forward to being able to get back on the bike as soon as possible.

Let's hear from Michelle herself now...

What is your birthdate? 10/12/1981
Do you have any nicknames? Mich (that's pronounced "meesh")
What's your favorite trail or ride? Road Ride - Up & around Horsetooth Reservoir (in Fort Collins)
How long have you been racing bikes? My first race was with the CSU cycling team in 2005
Which squeeky toy will you be riding with this season? I do not have a mascot yet, but if I can find one, I think a cat would be an appropriate choice.
What is one riding goal for 2008? To ride. Currently doctor's orders are to stay off the bike completely, so my goal is to heal quickly so I can get back on my beloved bikes.
What is one racing goal for 2008? I probably will not be racing this year due to my neck problems, so I'd say my goal is to get myself into shape so I can kick some butt in the 2009 racing season.
What is one goal you would like to see the team achieve? To make a grand entrance into the racing scene and for our kit to be recognized. My goal is that any time someone sees our kit they know that the person wearing it is approachable, down to earth, friendly and helpful.
 What is your favorite cycling related product? My helmet. I would never ride without it.
The thing I enjoy most about riding is... Enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, listening to the sounds of nature, checking out the scenery and escaping from the stress of daily life.

Keep up with Michelle during her recovery this season at her blog and stay tuned later this week for more from Ride Against the Machine!