If Switzerland’s Kathrin Stirnemann could make one request to the organizers of the DCM Cape Pioneer Trek (17-22 October), it would certainly be that there should be no cows along the route.
There’s a very good reason for this request.
Although mountain biking and survival stories have become synonymous over the years, Stirnemann’s story remains unique. Her adventure story took place last year while she was busy doing what she loves most: riding her mountain bike.
“A cow came running straight at me and then she kicked me off my bike. I had blue bruises all over my body and some scrapes as well,” Stirnemann explained. “I guess I shouldn’t complain because it could have been worse. Luckily the cow didn’t fall on me or jump upon me. However, since that incident I cannot help to be scared stiff of cows.”
Despite this ‘mad cow fear’ of hers, Stirnemann has no fear of coming out to race in South Africa, country of the Big Five.
According to Stirnemann, she didn’t hesitate for a moment when Carel Herholdt, organizer, phoned to invite her to compete in the DCM Cape Pioneer Trek.
“I heard from other riders about their amazing experiences during the six-day tour and I saw pictures of the beautiful South African landscape. So when I received an invitation from Carel, it was an easy decision to make.”
Even though it will be the first time that she will compete in a multi-stage event, it is safe to say that Stirnemann will be a podium contender.
Her racing CV provides impressive reading. She is a former junior Swiss cross-country champion, as well as winner of a junior World Cup race; finished 4th in a Junior World Cross-Country Championship; finished second in the U23-race at the European Championship and was second during the U23-race at this year’s World Cup event at Dalby Forest.
According to Stirnemann she has been riding her mountain bike for about 17 years.
“I started to ride my mountain bike when I was 5 years old. My dad taught my brother and me to play with the bike like with other toys. “
She still remembers her first race.
“It was a children’s race in my hometown. I raced with the boys and managed to finish third overall. I was so proud of winning my first trophy in my first race.
“Since then I have raced all the children’s categories in the Swiss Cup series. At first I did it just for fun, not really doing any serious training, so I had a normal childhood until I was 15.
“I only became serious about mountain biking when, as a 15 year old, I was selected for the Swiss junior team.”
When asked about the most memorable moment of her mountain biking career, Stirnemann didn’t hesitate, “Winning gold as a junior rider at the European Cross-Country Championship.
“It was an indescribable moment when I put on the championship jersey and received the gold medal. Then they played the national anthem of Switzerland just for me. Wow, I still get goose bumps when I think back to this moment.
“There were other memorable moments. Actually, every time I got onto the podium it was a great moment for me.”
Stirnemann’s ultimate goal is to win a medal at a World Championship.
“I won’t stop racing competitively until I win a medal at a World Championship. Another important goal of mine is to represent Switzerland at the Olympic Games.’’