Rich Houseman
Hometown Temecula, CA Years Competing 18
Nicknames Big House
Team ODI Specialized
Discipline DS, 4X, DH
Honors 2008 US National 4X Champ, 2007 US 4X Overall Champ, and 1996 Jr National DH Champ
03.30.11 The Rich Houseman Report Read more »
How does FOX contribute to your success?
FOX provides me with the best product on the market, and they continue to progress suspension technology.
Tell us about your bike/vehicle setup.
Specialized Demo 8
What else is in your garage?
Lots of Kenda tires, baby strollers, and a few posters.
What's your training regimen?
With a full-time job at www.hookit.com, and 2 baby girls, my training has taken a back seat over the years. But I do try to ride at least 2 days a week.
Any major injuries, and how did you recover?
Broken ankle, and shoulder surgery. Fortunately my wife is an orthopedic PA!
What's your typical pre-race/event meal? Guilty pleasure?
I never really had one particular meal.
How do you determine which races or events to enter each year?
Is it within driving distance, and can I sleep in my own bed.
What motivated you to get started professionally?
My little brother had been racing MTB for about a year before I started. I wanted to go out and beat him!
What separates you from other professional athletes?
Being a professional comes with lots of responsibilities, I know what it takes to represent my sponsors on and off the track.
What would you be doing if you weren't a professional athlete?
Working a full-time job, and being a daddy... wait, I'm already doing that!
What's the best thing about being a professional athlete?
Riding the best product, travelling to cool locations, and being a role model for the younger kids.
What other sports are you interested in?
Motocross, basketball, and ping-pong.
Any advice to the readers dreaming to turn pro?
Again, being a pro is not just about riding your bike fast. Learn to represent your sponsors, interact with the media and fans, and everything else will fall into place.
What are your favorite magazines and websites?
www.hookit.com
Favorite movie quote?
"Oh YA" - Despicable Me
Who is your hero?
My wife
Are you a Mac or PC? PC
Top 3 bands Pearl Jam, Pennywise, and Rise Against
Greatest strength Experience
Most frustrating challenge Finding time to ride
