What’s your name?

Allen Stoddard

Where do you live?

Salinas, California

How old are you?

16

How long have you been riding bikes and what different genres have you either ridden or raced?</span> Riding since I was 2 years old. Downhill, Dual Slalom

How long have you been riding downhill?

2 years

When was your first race?

2006 Sea Otter Classic

What class do you race in?

Junior Expert

How was your first race?

Terrible! I fell on the first corner and got stuck in the mud.

Did you feel prepared when lining up at the gate? (NERVES)….

Back at the 2006 Sea Otter, no! But now I am very well prepared for the races. I lift weights, run, ride cross-country, ride sketchy trails and train hard.

How did you first season as a racer go?

It was okay. I gained a lot of experience and met a lot of friends at races. I can’t wait for the 2008 NMBS!

What would you like to see as a racer at the next race you attend?

A super gnarly course with rocks, roots, steep chutes, and a little pedaling.

Is the riding good in your area?

Haha in my area no! I can not train for gnarly courses at all. Fort Ord and Toro Park are all XC. But I drive to Santa Cruz and Aptos to ride good trails.

What scares you most while on the bike?

Over shooting jumps, I always land flat on jumps that I have never hit.

A skill you wish you had on the bike or off?

Haha flying I guess.

Who do you look up to?

Sam Hill is my favorite racer. He is always so pinned on every racecourse.

Your dream ride would be where and include what?

Fort William, Scotland. That course looks amazing!

Your dream bike would be?

Iron Horse Sunday

What do you think would benefit the race scene most?

More coverage! We need television advertisements. This is the hardest sport in the world! We need some respect and props.

What is one place you just have to ride?

Whistler BC

Dreams and aspirations in the big scheme of things?

Getting top 5 in Jr. Expert for the NMBS and qualifying for worlds!

Plans for college yet?

Yes, I plan on going to Chico State or Cabrillo College. I need trails close to me at all times!

Anybody you want to thank?

My mom, all of my friends that have helped me out with racing, Joselyn’s Bike Shop in Monterey, and every downhill racer!

We miss anything?

Just keep an eye out for me! I will do well this race season.