How Pro DH Mountain Biker Neko Mulally Built His Path to Success

We learn how Neko found his passion for mountain biking, where he likes to ride, and how he feels about crashing.
By Jeff Barber
   Last Updated:
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Photo provided by Neko Mulally.

Neko Mulally is a professional downhill mountain bike racer and three time US National Champion. He’s also the co-founder of Windrock Bike Park in Tennessee and is currently part of the Intense DH Factory Racing team.

In this conversation, we ask Neko:

  • How did you find your passion for mountain biking at such an early age?
  • What’s it like racing the World Cup on familiar trails at Snowshoe, West Virginia?
  • What have you learned through the experience of building and operating Windrock Bike park?
  • When you’re not riding park, where do you like to ride? Do you have a favorite trail?
  • Why do you think people are so interested in how much money professional mountain bikers earn? Did money play into your decision to pursue a career in racing?
  • Do today’s young mountain bike athletes have advantages or opportunities you didn’t have growing up?
  • Do you have to live at the base of a mountain resort to become a pro downhiller?
  • How do you feel about crashing? Is it true that if you’re not crashing, you’re not learning?
  • Do you have any tips for avoiding serious injury when you do fall?
  • What does your preparation for the World Cup season look like?
  • How do strength and endurance training play into getting ready for competition?
  • What’s are the best and worst parts about traveling the world to race mountain bikes?

Neko tells us, “As a downhill rider, to find the edge, you have to go past it.”

Visit NekoMulally.com to purchase this year’s Bike Giveaway Fundraiser Poster and follow Neko on Instagram @nekomulally.

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