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Lots to catch up on
Ruthie Matthes is a member of the 2000 U.S. Olympic mountain bike team. The 35-year-old American was the UCI World Cup champion in 1992 and the national cross country champion from 1996-98. Check back with Matthes on CNNSI.com as she competes in Sydney.
September 3, 2000
Hi out there! Well, I'm gearing up to go Down Under. Four days and counting until I leave for a month. Lots to catch up on -- make sure last months bills are paid and this month's covered too. I just got my beautiful new bike for the Olympic race, so I have to get that all set up and ridden a few times before I compete on it. Then I need to make my parts and equipment list, check it twice and get all my clothes together. I heard it snowed in Sydney two days ago, so I must be prepared for any kind of race conditions. I have my winter cycling gear, as well as my summer stuff. I have to pack well, as there is a weight limit on bags, and from past experience, the Aussies are strict! The course was dry and hard packed for the World Cup race we competed in April 1999, but it may be a 180 for this time of year. I am wondering if it rains, will the dirt turn to greased lightening or the mud that gums up and makes the bike a hundred pounds? Time will tell. Having raced the course before, I have a feel for it, and I like it. Power hills and some fun turning bits, not too technical but at race pace plenty difficult. My mom, brother, boyfriend, boyfriend's mom, my mentor and his wife, my friend and former coach and his son are all coming to the Games. I am so happy they will all be there to experience my dream come true. I hope I will get a chance to see them before the race, but if not I know I will hear them cheering. My mom typically finds a special place to watch and yell. I am lucky enough to have Stephane Girard, the U.S. National and Olympic Team Coach and my personal coach, there to guide and help me reach my goals. In addition, all the wonderful friends and supporters that will be cheering at the TV! It has been a lot of roads and trails to get to the games and so many people have helped me in my quest. I am very grateful to you all. Now I had better get some rest before my whirlwind packing starts in the morning. I will let you all know how it goes in a month. More later. -- Ruthie
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