2022 has been a phenomenal year for Nieve Holmes becoming the European Enduro Champion, and an ISDE Champion with Team Great Britain, so we thought it only right that she becomes the first racer to answer our Dirty Dozen questions this winter…
Images courtesy of ACU British ISDE Team – Tilde Tighe
DH: Do you have a Pre-Race Playlist you listen to, and if so, name a couple of tracks that are on it?
Nieve: I do listen to music on the way to races as usually our journeys are pretty long, but before a race I actually quite like silence, a bit weird really but it chills me out! Lol.
DH: When was the last time you cried?
Nieve: I had a little happy cry when I won the European Enduro Championship last weekend, it’s been a goal of mine for a while now and to finally achieve it, it felt amazing.
DH: What is your favourite inspirational quote?
Nieve: Train Hard – Race Easy
DH: Do you have any weird suspicions or pre-race rituals?
Nieve: I like to put my knee braces on and strap them up in a particular order! Other than that, nothing really. Apart from when I’m on the start ramp, I tend to fidget a hell of a lot!
DH: What drives you most to get up in the morning and go training?
Nieve: To be better than I was yesterday.
DH: If you didn’t race, what sport would you play?
Nieve: Before racing, I actually played football and rode horses competitively, so I guess it would be either one of those.
DH: What is your biggest Phobia?
Nieve: I don’t like Bees or Wasps!
DH: Who is your biggest sporting idol and why?
Nieve: Ricky Carmichael, he’s called the GOAT for a reason! He got there with hard work and dedication.
DH: Where do you see yourself in five years time?
Nieve: I would love to still be racing doing what I’m currently doing!
DH: What is your all-time favourite movie?
Nieve: That’s a tough one! Bike related : On any Sunday. Non bike related : there’s too many good ones to choose from…
DH: Who has had the biggest impact on your career?
Nieve: My parents for giving me the opportunities to ride and race. Chris Hockey for believing in me and helping me take those next steps these last few years!
DH: What is your philosophy on life?
Nieve: ‘If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done’.
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