Anna Yamauchi
Anna is no stranger to racing. She is, however, inexperienced when it comes to racing a World Cup XCO race.
That didn't stop her from lining up at the Andorra World Cup start line though. Read on to learn what it takes to hang with the best, as told by Anna.
I like to be scared. I love the uncomfortable feeling of trying something new and the immediate “in your face sensation” of all the things you learn. Novelty keeps me excited and curious about bike racing. So, it seemed appropriate that if I were going to the Andorra World Cup to cheer on my Boyfriend, Christopher Blevins, I might as well petition for a spot through USAC and give it a go myself.
With just 4 xco races under my belt and no UCI points to my name, it was terrifying to line up amongst the best in the world, but it was also freeing in a way - I couldn’t expect to perform at the same level with such little experience. I really couldn’t expect anything at all since the whole thing was so new.
Amongst pouring rain, a muddy track, and a massive crowd I lined up literally dead last. They played the signature heart beat sound at the start line and all the sudden we were sprinting off the line. Unlike a familiar gravel race, moving up through the single track during the rest of the race felt nearly impossible. But bit by bit I moved forward and ended the day with 11 new UCI points to my name.
I moved up 20 places to a result that wasn’t anything significant, but I’m proud of it and the way I embraced such a daunting challenge. The day sparked new curiosity and reminded me of how difficult, but rewarding, every corner of the sport is. It’s pretty special how many different ways I can choose to be a bike racer - and rider for that matter.
