Name: Rachel Andrea Atherton

Age: 18

Briefly describe yourself… I ride Downhill Mountainbikes for a living, which consists of throwing myself down a 1000m + mountain on a 7 inch travel bike. I hurl myself off rock drops twice my height, between trees, vertical descents and berms, at speeds of up to 40mph. My life is my passion, I love travelling the world with my friends, tasting the different cultures. To relax I surf, read books and ride motocross.

Describe your biggest adrenaline rush: It would have to be when I’m faced with a big jump that I’m scared of, I’ll sit for ages working up the courage to do it, launching myself in to the air, not knowing if you’ll land it okay is mental, its such a buzz!

What, or who, is your greatest inspiration and why? Ricky Charmichael is my hero, he trains so so hard and never gives up. I get inspired in most unusual situatuations, I’ll be eating a meal and suddenly that feeling of being on the top step, being up there above everyone will come to me and I’ll know that I can do it.

When are you happiest? When I’m at the top of a beautiful mountain looking out to the rest of the world, thinking how lucky I am. And when I’m at home with my family relaxing.

What’s your philosophy on life? To follow your instinct, follow your heart. There is only one person who knows whats going to work for you, and you do only have one chance.

What’s your greatest dream or hope? I hope to make it to the top in my sport, to be the very best, and i dream of a happy healthy life, full of love.

How do you stay fit and healthy? I have to train pretty hard to stay fit if I want to race so I’ll ride/exercise everyday, but it’s never a chore. I think that’s the secret, have fun! I’ll allways eat what my body feels like too, it’s important to eat a lot and get outside!

Favourite quote for the Cooler reader… “Dress for Success”

Picture by Robin Kitchin

Check out Rachel Atherton‘s blogs!