the 10 Questions are back with a biggie.....NATIONAL CHAMPION RUTH WINDER!

1. You've just been named to the USA squad to go to UCI Junior Track Worlds in Italy....was that a big surprise? And how excited are you?

I knew going to track nationals of the possibility of getting on the worlds team. Still getting the email when I got home saying that I had been selected was a big surprise. I am very excited!

2. There are lots of Winders racing...how did you get started?

I started riding after I stopped horse back riding. I didn't have much else to do and cycling was what my parents did. I did my first race in late 07 and haven't stopped since.

3. You've raced road and track. What is your favorite? And what is your all time fave race?

I don't have a favourite between road and track. I like both equally. I'm not sure I have a favourite race yet. I like too many. :)

4. Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY12 is developing a very strong junior team. You've just added a new teammate and you've had Coryn Rivera the past couple of years to race with. What is one piece of advice you'd give to a beginning junior racer?

I think any beginner rider should just be totally relaxed about their first year or two as a racer and learn what everything is about. Never feel any pressure from a team or friends. Just go out and have a great time learning about the sport.

5. Nationals was a big success for you. Tell us how the scratch race played out, and how exciting was it to put on the stars and stripes?

I attacked until I stayed away. It was a 21 lap race and I attacked 4 times. It was on the 4th time with 11 laps to go that I stayed away. After coming so close to that top step so many times already this year, it felt absolutely amazing to finally stand up there.

6. What do you like to do when you're off the bike?

While I'm not out riding, I like to hang out with friends, watch movies, and draw.

7. If you could go on a ride with any cyclist (past or present), who would it be, and why?

I am a big Mark Cavendish fan. Why wouldn't you want to ride with him!? He is a great athlete.

8. What is your favorite post-race or post-ride treat?

ICE CREAM! Preferably Hagen Daz. Ben & Jerry's is good too though. ;)

9. Email, text or FaceBook?

ooo tough one. Probably text.

10. Lastly, do you speak any Italian????

Nope! I have to start learning! Thanks!

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN RUTH! We look forward to hearing all about Italy.

clm