The Kelli Samuelson interview. BOTP - Ep.10
Hello there ladies and gentlemen,
The blog today is pretty much written in a belated sense, which I do apologise for! I tried desperately to make sure this one was out for International Woman's Day but as life would have it I was crazier then when Britney decided to shave her head an so forth, you get me?
Anyways less of the crazy today which is always a bonus, right?
Kelli Samuelson, fuck yeah the lady knows whats up inside and out of the cycling world! Since I became obsessed with fixed riding I've always been a sure fan of Cinelli / Chrome team, also another name to look at from the team would be Alfred Bobe Jr another influence of mine and most likely the reason I ride Cinelli personally! Please do check out both these names on youtube or social media, whatever you kids do these days!
Right back to the main purpose of this wonderful opportunity!
Hey Kelli, huge thanks again for the answers, lets get to it!
What's the first memory / memories of being on and around bikes?
Kelli : I always rode for fun as a child, but my first memory was right after I'd learnt to ride when I was maybe 4-5. I thought I was super skilled and tried riding with no hands at the same time. Lets just say it didn't end well!
Well we've all had our fair share of silly but fun memories especially on bikes, I think my favourite would be my father attempting to teach me how to ride my first 'big boys' bike on ice after a fair amount of brandy... mistakes were made!
Was there / is there any other paths you'd like to pursue in your life?
Kelli : I am constantly trying to push myself in all aspects. I would ideally love to grow LA Sweat* into one of the top women's team in the world. I would love to be able support an amazing group of women fully.
Now this is a great tie in point for International Women's day, so below is all the information on LA Sweat and from what I've watched personally and read you've been known as the mom and to never let anyone go without if you can help no matter what it may take. Which to me is already inspiring and hopefully to my readers once they've taken a look into who you're and what you're doing within female cycling! Big love!
How did racing at Criterium level happen, where did it all stem from?
Kelli : I was always drawn to crits, an coming from the fixed world road racing wasn't really a thing. When I found crits and red hook, I was hooked! They are also great for creating a fan base. It's something people can come to and be apart of, it's a community not just a race.
So this year for me is the first year of entering alley cats and working my way towards hopefully racing and its great to see huge groups and communities of fixed gear / bike lovers together! I honestly cannot wait for this year to pan out with travel and meetings!
I've noticed you've been having some adventure rides with friends on a more personal level, how do they differ to travelling with a pro team? Also how do they effect mind and body?
Kelli : I love bike packing, for me its a very personal thing. I am able to just do my thing and not have to worry about logistics. Running the team (LA Sweat) is basically like being a mom, mechanic a boss and everything in between.
We all need an escape from the heavy lives we choose to pursue, especially coming from a professional status into a business / managing a team of talented riders everyday. I can imagine how free an liberating the bike packing has been for you, heres to a successful future in both LA Sweat and your bike packing!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? On and off the bike..
Kelli : I honestly have no idea. Life to short and that seems a life time away!
I couldn't agree more with you more here Kelli, I guess they say we all have our paths in life but why should we follow them? What else is out there waiting for us and how will we ever know if we don't get out there and find out?!
Last question,
Could you give us a few words of wisdom, towards aspiring riders like myself and veterans alike?
Kelli : I have always lived by the 'if you're not having fun then don't do it'. In terms of riding, stop comparing yourselves to others. You don't have to be the fastest or the strongest, just be yourself and do what makes you happy. And if you want something bad enough go for it, work your arse off and you will get there!
Kelli : Last of all be nice, you never know you might effect someones life.
Well, save the best for last they say and well damn I couldn't of said it better myself!
BE NICE!
No matter what sport, career, hobby or community you're apart of just be nice because lets face it there to much hatred, jealousy and evil in the world, we might as well add a little happiness and friendships right!?
Again, biggest thank you to Kelli Samuelson for everything especially donating her time and words in such a busy time of her life. Also big shout out to all of you women out there pushing boundaries or just chilling and eating malteasers, having a laugh with your girls, you're appreciated by many and sadly ignored by a minority!
Peace out girls!....an guys.
Web pages as follows :
LA Sweat : http://www.la-sweat.com Have a read, get inspired!
Instagram : Kellisam Again give her an add, keep up on recent news and rides, its all good fun!