After a dominant performance as a Semi Pro in 2005, 19 year old Ryan Condrashoff shares his fresh experiences and perspectives as he makes his way through his first season as a pro.


Last year you won the US Semi-Pro Downhill series. What did this accomplishment mean to you?  It showed me that I was capable of putting a good season together and it was great to win the overall. I was more looking to win the national champs at Mammoth but I was definitely stoked to get the overall. I felt I needed to string together consistent results so that I would have something to stand on when I turned pro.


During your first year as a pro, what has been the biggest surprise? The level of riding is so much higher. Qualifying is so much more difficult because the times are faster but you do get the opportunity to get more runs. I knew I was going to have to improve to even qualify and be competitive but I realize now how much focus and dedication it really takes to grow myself as a rider.

What were your overall impressions of your first World Cup at Mt. Saint Anne? You know all the big names and you know they’re fast but when you see how fast they hit stuff up close it really blows you away. Then you see some guys you never heard of on gear you’ve never seen and they come by totally pinned. It’s totally crazy.

How much more are you pushing yourself to become faster?Definitely taking more chances in my race runs because of the pressure to perform at a higher level. I also have found some of my limits and some areas I can grow more as a rider. In Semi Pro it was easier for me to calm down and ride with confidence but the new pressures of being a pro  definitely cause me to make mistakes and expose areas I can improve in.

 

                  

Would you rather win a 4x or DH national?

 Downhill for sure as I like to think of myself first as a downhiller. 4x is like a fun event to ride while I am at a race.

What do you think about the Nationals being held in Sonoma?It’s sort of a let down track wise, but given the circumstances, I am glad that there is still an event so it doesn’t bother me all that much. Plus it’s close to home, which helps the race budget.

Should Drew Powers wear a helmet or would a bump or two help more than hurt?While he’s dirt jumping for sure, but the guy is crazy enough so maybe he doesn’t need one after all.

What course best suits your style? Courses like Deer Valley that have various elements and high speed finishes. I was disappointed this year because I flatted there but I am a fan of the complete, well balanced, downhill courses.

Did you watch any of the World Cup? World Cup of soccer?

One night with Jessica Simpson or one week in Whistler? Whistler all the way.

WORD ASSOCIATION WITH CONDRO


NORBA   Hates you
Taylor Hicks  Who?
Eggbeater Hmm, trying to think of something smart here, don’t write that down.
Chain lube Hella Greasy
Skinsuit Jared Graves , because he is so anti-skinsuit
Juano The man-o