Installment #2
By Ryan Cleek
photos courtesy of sponsorhouse.com
The Sponsorhouse.com feature rider interview series continues with 17-year-old pro downhiller from Santa Barbara, California, Duncan Riffle. Last season, he made his mark in downhill by taking fifth in the Junior World Championships, and winning the Semi-pro National Championship, with series wins in Big Bear, California and Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho. Only 17, Duncan has the talent to find the podium for many years to come. To learn more about Duncan Riffle, read the interview below, and check out his bio at sponsorhouse.com.
Full Name: Duncan Laird Riffle
Age: 17
Nickname: Blump-kin
Sponsors: Spy Optics, Fox Racing Shocks, Chumba Bikes, Azonic, Magura, Michelin, Truvativ, ODI, Chris King, WTB, Time
How long have you been racing mountain bikes?
I started in 1998. My first race was at Castaic Lake when I was 10 years old.
What is your favorite racecourse?
My favorite courses are Lugano, Switzerland and Fort William in Scotland.
Describe your riding style?
A lot like Bubba, levers straight up.
,b>What was your most memorable moment, race, or event?
It?s hard to say, this year I have had a ton of opportunities to travel and race some of the best courses in the world, so each event just adds another memorable moment.
Worst crash?
I ruptured my spleen, and a bunch of others that rang my bell.
Who are some of your biggest influences in mountain biking?
My teammates, Shaums March, Lisa Sher, and Lars Tribus, have all been huge influences to me. Shaums is one of the most approachable and friendly pros on the circuit. I learned a lot out the business of sponsorship from Lisa, and Lars impressed me with his positive outlook on riding.
How important is the support from sponsors?
Racing is expensive, without sponsors, it would be hard to afford the bikes, gear and traveling costs to Europe and Canada.
What do sponsors look for in a rider?
It depends on the company. Most are looking for a certain image, someone who stands out above the rest. It?s important to be approachable, and promote their product.
Do you have advice for riders in search of sponsorship?
Don?t be afraid to get your face out there. Go to as many races and events as you can. Despite your results, keep a positive attitude.
What are you goals, both long-and-short-term?
This season, I want to finish in the top 15 in the Pro men NORBA circuit, and do my best in the National and World Championships. I just stay positive, and have fun riding my bike. I?ll also do some video projects this winter.
Who would you like to give thanks?
My parents, without their support none of this would be possible. My sponsors, Spy Optics, Fox Racing Shox, my boys over a Magura, Tam Mojo, Michelin, Dylan at Truvativ, Shaums, Lars, Lisa and of course Nobman. Plus, everyone else who?s helped me along the way.
Click here to go to Duncan's bio.
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