While it was not a big surprise anymore, my asthma caused me more problems last weekend during the world cup finals in Schladming, Austria. I still tried to get the body ready for one last effort, but my body just said NO! I was breathing very heavy for 4 laps, suffering badly, so finally when I realized it would not get better, I pulled out. Now I will stop all intensive training and races for this year. I will begin some tests with my doctor and do everything possible to fight this issue. I plan to take an extended off season, around 2-3 months without hard anaerobic training, so that my system can get its strength back.

During this time I am going to be working on my plan of attack for the coming four years. I have learnt a lot and have some good new idea's on how to get myself fitter and faster then before. This is in the end what excites me the most about racing... the simple goal of just going faster!

But I will also begin some studies as well. With the help of SPARC in New Zealand, I will receive funding to pay for my education. I will be doing some french studies to improve my communication skills and then I will begin a degree in sports management through Massey. Its going to be a big change for me, but I think I'll enjoy it. Also the balance will be good for me and hopefully even help my riding.  ¶ 4:41 PM