Niki
Gudex has fast become one of the most talked about women in
the Australian mountain bike industry. Although she has only
been competing in the sport for just on three years, Niki is
already ranked as the number 2 female rider in Australia for
downhill mountain biking.
BIKEsutra:I know you must have been asked this many times before,
but how did you get started in mountain biking, especially competitive
downhill racing?
Niki:
After a back injury from snowboarding I wanted to find a sport
that would allow me to get fit. To make a long story short,
basically I went into a bike shop, where the guy working there
asked me if I raced. At that point I still didn't know that
the sport of mountain biking existed. By the time I walked out
of that shop I had decided I would get a mountain bike. A few
days after I got the bike I took it to a mountain bike race.
I didn't know anyone there, since all my friends were only into
skating and snowboarding, but everyone was really friendly and
I had a great time. From that day forward it has been bikes,
bike, bikes...
BIKEsutra:What is your greatest achievement to date in terms
of competitive racing?
Niki:
I would probably have to say representing Australia at the
World Championships in Vail, USA. Not so much because of my
result (it was my first overseas event), but just to be part
of the sport at its highest level, and to be there as a representative
of Australia. It definitely adds an entirely different dimension
to competing. I came home proud of what I had achieved, and
with a clearer focus on what my ultimate goals are.
BIKEsutra:I hear you are also studying, as well as modelling.
How do you find the time to do both, as well as compete in national
and overseas events?
Niki:
It can get pretty busy at times, but it is like racing.
You just have to commit and do your best. The harder you work
for something, the more personally rewarding it is.
BIKEsutra:Tell us something about Niki Gudex that we don't
know.
Niki:
I have a gorgeous Burmese kitten called Tiger.
BIKEsutra:What is your fitness regime like?
Niki:
This off-season I have made some major changes in order
to focus on my priorities, training and studying. In the past
it has been difficult to train the way I know I should. I have
just moved to a place on the beach, which is close to university,
but more importantly has much better training opportunities.
There are trails to ride and friends to ride with.
BIKEsutra:Describe in one word what you are feeling at the
very point when you are given the start signal during competitive
downhilling.
Niki:
Focus.
BIKEsutra:What have you learnt from graphic designing, mountain
biking and modelling, that can be applied over all these 3 interests
of yours?
Niki:
To be passionate, honest, creative, to inspire and be inspired.
To work hard, to believe and to have fun. To enjoy what you
are doing.
BIKEsutra:What would you say to younger riders who aspire to
be like you? Any words of wisdom/encouragement?
Niki:
Everyone is different, we each have unique qualities, it
is inspiring to see people achieve their potential. Just get
out there, ride, be active, get involved, but most importantly
have fun. If you enjoy what you do things will work out for
you. Be proud of what you do and trust your instincts.
BIKEsutra:What would you say drives and motivates you everyday?
Niki:
Curiosity and a drive to do my best.
We would like to thank Niki for the interview and wish
her all the best for her future endeavours!
