Cooper Dendel, Professional Mountain Biker

Age: 23

Team: Quick Stop Bike Shop (title sponsor)

Sponsors: King Orchards, Trek, Bontrager, Podium Wear, Momentum Endurance, Frosty Treats, Hayes, Sun Ringle, Answer, Manitou, Honey Stinger

License: XC: Pro

Coach: Brian Matter (Momentum Endurance)

Location: Marquette MI

Favorite race: Marquette Trails Festival

Bike: Trek Superfly FS 9.9 XTR

About me: I started mountain bike racing 5 years ago and fell in LOVE. I race mostly in the Upper Peninsula and Wisconsin but make the trip down to Traverse City every year to compete in the Iceman Cometh challenge. Although this style race is not my favorite, it is pretty exciting lining up next to Olympians and world class athletes. My favorite races have mostly technical single track trail, and living in Marquette, I am fortunate enough to have miles and miles of single track right out my back door!

I have made drinking a glass of cherry juice part of my after ride routine, and it is not only refreshing but helps my body feel better quicker after tough workouts. One of my favorite things to make is carbonated water, add cherry juice concentrate, and a squeeze of lime.

Follow me on Instagram and twitter: @cooperdendel