In an exclusive for InnerVoice, 22-year old mountain biker Kate Courtney shares what was going through her mind as she won her first Elite world championship last weekend in Switzerland.
When I saw Annika Langvad get off her bike, I was still completely focused on executing my race plan. At that moment, I tried to bring my attention to riding that section clean, and to the best of my ability. I knew that I had recovered well from the climb and had a bit of energy left to really push through those last technical sections. It’s hard to tell from the video or pictures, but the last few sections of the course require a really interesting combination of power and technical skill. Being a bit more recovered from the climb, I could pedal through those sections and carry momentum on the second half of the course.
Even when I was leading on the final lap, my inner voice didn’t change. I had the same internal dialogue as I’d had for much of the race.
"Keep it smooth, nail these technical sections, stay focused."
I thought only about riding to the best of my ability, and I hoped that if I rode like a champion, my best on the day might be the best in the world!
My parents were both standing at the finish line which was an absolutely incredible moment. They have been such an important part of my village, and have done so much to support me. To share that moment with them was beyond words, and I can tell you there wasn’t a dry eye in sight.
I also got to give my dad the Tissot World Champion watch that I got on the podium. My dad has been there every step of the way - riding with me in the rain, working on my bike, or encouraging me to set my sights high and believe in myself. To share that moment with him and be able to give him a gift that money can’t buy was one of the most memorable moments of my life. Plus, I think he earned it with all those rides in the rain.
© 2026 InnerVoice
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