Gunn-Rita: New challenges in a new year

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Merida sponsored world champions Rui Costa and Gunn Rita Dahle-Flesjaa(Image credit: Multivan Merida Biking Team)

A New Year lies ahead of us, with new challenges, opportunities and experiences. Mostly a mix of excitement and enjoyment, but also a flavour of trepidation. I live in the belief that anything is possible if one really wants it and is prepared to work hard every day to reach the goal.

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Norwegian cross country mountain bike racer Gunn-Rita Dahle Flesjå is a favorite on the international mountain bike circuit. For years, she has delighted loyal fans as she raced her heart out in cross country and marathon events.

She made an impressive comeback in 2008 after a season of illness. In 2008, she won the Madrid, Spain, round of the UCI World Cup and the UCI Marathon World Championships and finished 12th in the World Cup final standings.

Dahle Flesjå then took on the challenge of motherhood in 2009 when she gave birth to her first child in the spring. With the support of her husband Kenneth Flesjå and her family, she returned to competition within a few months after becoming a mother.

Dahle Flesjå was World Champion in 2002, 2004, 2005, and 2006, plus Olympic champion in 2004. In 2003 to 2006, she dominated the sport, winning the World Cup overall.

Follow her faithfully recounted exploits on Cyclingnews as she balances the roles of mother and elite racer. Or, for more Gunn-Rita, see her personal website:

www.gunnrita.com