Cyclocross Racing

An Interview with Cyclocross Racer Laura Van Gilder

by Kathryn C. Wilder, Ph.D.

As a sports psychologist and researcher, I have been working with, 17-year cycling veteran, Laura Van Gilder since this past March, focusing on performance enhancement in both road cycling, and cyclocross. The following is a testimonial that Van Gilder provided for me. "Sports psychology is an important aspect of an athletes' success. Working with Dr. K.C. Wilder this past season has put a new perspective on my outlook and preparation for my sport. Mental training is an important element that completes an athlete's preparedness. My interactions with Dr. K.C. have helped me gain the insight necessary to retain the inner focus and drive which is needed to remain successful and motivated."

The focus of this interview: 1. Why cyclo-cross? 2. How do you evaluate your performance in a cyclo-cross race?

Dr. K.C. Wilder: What do you like about cyclo-cross racing?

Laura VanGilder (LVG): I like cyclo-cross because it is fast paced, and it is a short intense, 40 minute discipline. You focus entirely on yourself as a rider, and at the end of the day you know--this one is on me. I like to rely on myself, and come away from a race knowing that I did the best that I could.

Dr. K.C.: What is so unique about a cyclo-cross race?

LVG: The different variables that you face race upon race, and even within a race. The barriers, and how to navigate them on each lap make it a lot of fun. After the barriers there may be an uphill run, then you may have to deal with an off-camber turn. Each lap the course changes, for example, it may become muddier, and therefore you have to constantly evaluate, and re-evaluate the best lines to take on the course.

Dr. K.C.: When you finish a race how do you evaluate your performance?

LVG: When I finish a cyclo-cross race I am less harsh on myself than in a criterium. Any disappointment that I may feel doesn't linger, and I am pro-active, and positive about it. I think to myself, what technique can I work on this week to improve my cyclo-cross skills? I take charge, and realize my mistakes, and then they turn into challenges for my next 'cross race. I am always looking to improve my ‘cross techniques, skills, and mental strategies that I bring to a race.

Dr. K.C.: You mentioned being pro-active. Why is this so important?

LVG: It is important to me because I have high expectations for myself in every race. If I am pro-active post-race, then I am more positive, I am challenged, and more prepared for my next race. Also, since cross is individualistic it is real easy for me to focus on something that is so clean, and in my control.

Take a moment to reflect on your own performance in cyclo-cross, or the cycling discipline in which you specialize. Why do you race? How do you evaluate your performance in a race? How do you evaluate your performance post-race? Why is being pro-active important to you, and your performance? In sport psychology, we can teach you, the athlete how to: think effectively, have confidence, and execute a consistent philosophy of competition. We can teach you about dreams, positive psychology, free-will, and mental preparation, but it is your responsibility to put these concepts into action in a race situation. Recognize your own freedom, develop self-awareness, and then go ahead—do the work to become your champion self!

Dr. Kathryn C. Wilder is a renowned Sport Psychologist and Adjunct Professor with a doctorate in sport psychology, and a supporting area in counseling. She is a well published author, national champion athlete, and applied performance educator.