Allison Spain
“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”-John Maxwell
D.O.B.: July 16th, 1998
Location: Boise, Idaho
Current City: Boise
Height: 5’4”
Specialty: Road and Circuit racing; Hills
Previous sports: Cross Country, Cycling
High school: Mountain View High School
Nickname: Ali
Years racing: 2
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I was born and raised in Idaho and grew up dancing, playing soccer, and downhill skiing (not farming on a potato farm). I started cycling freshman year with motivation from my mom, who has been passionate for the sport her entire life. I am an only child and have been racing for about two years off and on due to accidents/injuries. I love to meet new people and have a lot of fun, and I am very motivated and driven to (hopefully) make podium someday at a large race. I am excited for a new year of racing and new opportunities to create more acquaintances and friends.
Career Highlights
2014
- 9th Jr Road Nationals Criterium
- 3rd State Road Race Championship
- 5th Sea Otter Classic Road Race
- 1st State Criterium Champion 15/16
- 2nd State Criterium Championship 3/4
2013
- 3rd State Cyclocross Championships
- 2nd State Championship TT
- 6th Sea Otter Classic Road
- 4th Northwest Juniors Classic Stage Race Overall
What inspired you to start bike racing?
I was continually injured when I pursued a running career so I figured a bike would help my joints plus I wanted to try something new. The TWENTY16 Pro team came through Boise when I was 5 or 6 years old, and I told my mom how much I wanted to be one of them.
Who is an inspiration to you in your life, both on and off the bike?
My dad, because he loves setting goals and feeling accomplished even through extremely tough obstacles. I have learned from him that perseverance is a key to success, and I shouldn’t be stressed or unhappy when pursing any of my passions. Independence can still be obtained with help from others, and I gain inspiration from those who support me and guide me.
Favorite subject in school...?
English/Journalism
Favorite meal when training?
Spaghetti, Garlic bread and Fresh Salad...Oh and chocolate milk!!
The best thing about racing bikes?
The adrenaline rush of making attacks or dropping the other teams whom you thought you couldn’t beat. The feeling of accomplishment during both training and racing, even if you don’t win first place.
Favorite place you’ve raced your bike and why?
Sea Otter, California because of the warm weather and pretty big crowds!
Favorite cross training or off season activity?
Toss up between Cyclocross and Nordic Skiing
Best advice to give the student athlete
Always have faith in yourself and understand that the mind is the most powerful tool for anything and everything; learn how to use it to your advantage.
Favorite things to do off the bike:
1. Nordic Ski
2. Shop
3. Spend time with friends
4. Babysit
5. Go camping/hiking
Top 10 warmup/pre-race songs on your iPod:
1. Hella Good
2. Good Day by Nappy Roots
3. Helena Beat by Foster the People
4. SOS by Rihanna
5. Tongues by Joywave
6. Free Stress Test by Professor Murder
7. Noise by FM Belfast
8. Running Through My Mind by The Black Hollies
9. Dashboard by Modest Mouse
10. Gasoline by Audioslave
TWENTY16 has an emphasis on education with the initiation of our Junior Scholarship program in 2015.
Explain why it is important for an athlete to pursue education by going on to college after high school.
An athlete who has recognition and potential throughout high school is more likely to be supported in college, and they already have a great start to transition their abilities to their future. It is also important to acknowledge academic and sports-related scholarships available, as most athletes have higher expectations for grades and commitments to their success. I know that education lasts a lifetime, so even if someone in high school is set on becoming a full time professional athlete, it is always important to have something to fall back on.
