Cyclocross Rider Profile: Janis McDonald
October 09, 2006
Janis McDonald is a project manager for PDOT's Transportation Options program. But bikes are not just her job: Janis loves riding. She enjoys long distance rides and participating in organized rides, but this year Janis decided to challenge herself even more by trying cyclocross.
"Every year I say to myself 'this year I will race cross' - and then I chicken out." Janis says. "But his year I told a friend I was going to do it so then I had to. I commute everywhere by bike and feel pretty confident about my riding skills. But cross was a challenge to those skills. Sometimes you can get too comfortable and need to shake it up. I can't believe it took me this long to try it."
Janis got ready for the day by going to a clinic out at Alpenrose. At the clinic she learned how to jump off her bike - because cross racers are constantly hopping off the bike to go over hurdles, up stairs, etc - which was one of her biggest fears. "Rhonda and her crew were patient and broke all the skills down for the beginners to understand. I would definitely recommend the clinics for anyone just starting." Janis says.
Janis had never raced before, but, she says, "Going around the velodrome, feeling that speed, may change all that."
Janis arrived at Alpenrose on Saturday and walked around to scope out the course. She felt overwhelmed by the stairs and the hills. But once she got riding the course was bumpy, challenging and rewarding. She raced hard after the first lap. Not against the other women so much - but against herself, to push herself harder. "I loved it. I felt strong afterward."
Part of the appeal of cyclocross is the scene that unfolds off the course. Janis describes it as "electric." There were 120 women racing that day and Janis loved being a part of the action. As for the spectators, Janis says, "Their energy was just as high - and contagious. They gave me the extra push I needed when I was running up a hill. Or when they yell out that you did a great job over the barricade it makes you jump on your bike and ride harder...with a smile on your face."
So will Janis be out there again? The answer: "YES! It is just plain fun. Makes you feel like a kid just playing around."
The next cyclocross race is October 15th at Hillsboro Stadium.
Posted by orbike at October 9, 2006 08:21 AM
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Comments
Ain't Janis just fabulous?! She brings that enthusiasm to the office too! Anyone who wants to experience that good Janis vibe should sign up to be an Options Ambassador - you get to work with Janis all the time..... volunteering to get more folks riding, walking, taking transit, etc. Seriously - it is alot of fun.
Posted by: Linda Ginenthal at October 9, 2006 11:13 PM
I most definitely do not race, but I LOVE cheering at the riders as they fly by. It is really a fun time!!
Posted by: Gracey at October 9, 2006 11:31 PM
Janis would make any mother proud! Oh yeah, I AM her mother. She is dedicated to cycling and she has gotten her brothers, niece, nephew, and mother down in Texas to get on their bikes and ride. Janis makes me reach for higher goals. I am so thankful to have her in my life. LYM
Posted by: Nancy Bell at October 10, 2006 12:43 AM
Wow, I know Janis to be many wonderful things, but I didn't realize "cross racer" was one of them. You go, girl!
Posted by: Jessica Roberts at October 10, 2006 06:04 AM
Yeah, cyclocross, it really is all that. And I'm not kidding though it probably sounds like I am.
Posted by: Terrell at October 11, 2006 01:08 AM
Another notch in the "Janis McDonald: Cycling Star" belt! Very inspiring. Thanks, Janis! Hope to see you on the cross course soon.
Posted by: Ian Stude at October 11, 2006 01:55 AM
DAmn this town is cross-obsessed. Keep on keepin on, Janis!
Posted by: Philly at October 11, 2006 09:05 PM
Janis rocks!!! Not only does she get all those women riding (in the Women on Bikes Program), but she gets out there and gets muddy and conquers the cross course! Go girl! See you at the races.
Posted by: Stephenie at October 16, 2006 05:47 PM
Yeah for Janis. Wonder woman has a contagious smile and energy and I am so happy to know her. I didn't see you this last weekend but I better see you next week. Keep on ridin' chic! And helping others too!
Posted by: betsy at October 16, 2006 11:21 PM