We’re excited to spotlight our next Senior SLC member, Laura Pollard. Laura spreads kindness and positivity everywhere she goes! She has been such a positive part of our community, and it’s been really special to watch her growth over the years. We are so proud of Laura and know she will do great things!
What was your first impression when you started in the league? How did you feel about biking at that time?
When I signed up to ride in the league, I was not very passionate about biking, and especially not about the uphill. Once I got to ride with friends and teammates, I quickly realized how much more fun biking is with friends who are my pace rather than my super fast older siblings! Ever since joining the league and getting to race after COVID, I have loved biking and the cycling community.
In what ways have you noticed an increase in confidence, both on and off the bike, since joining the league?
Joining WSCL has increased my confidence on and off the bike through the coaching and opportunities for leadership. On the bike, getting feedback from coaches and teammates has improved my skills, along with being able to practice and train. Off the bike, WSCL has given me the opportunity to help coach younger riders on my team as well as build friendships where we all lift each other up.
How have you handled challenges or setbacks, such as difficult trials or races? What lessons have you learned from these experiences?
The main lesson I have learned through WSCL has been to have fun! I am a competitive person but my top priority at races is always to enjoy the race and the community. I have also learned to always give my best for the day and be proud of how I did and especially to be proud of the girls I race with.
What is your favorite part of being on the SLC?
My favorite part of being on the SLC has been helping with the behind-the-scenes of the races. A ton of work goes into logistics of the races, resolving issues, and continually making the league better, and I am proud to be able to help in a small way. I also have loved getting to know the other SLC members, through Zoom calls but mostly at the races.
What are your next steps after you graduate from high school?
After I graduate, I will attend Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts to study biochemistry! While there is not a cycling team there, I plan to join either the rowing or cross country running team as well as ride on my own and do local cyclocross races.
