Sept 4th, 09.

Canterbury's Josie Giddens is back home in New Zealand after a successful season racing in America.

When she was in the US, the 24 year old based herself in Washington DC with her team, Hub Racing.

"I absolutely love racing over here," Giddens told RoadCycling.co.nz after her first podium result in July. 

"I am definitely in my element when I get to race with the big women's fields."

"I'm not saying that I can always hang in there with them, but it's the first step and it's all pretty exciting to look forward to a future in this sport," she said.


Best ride/result of the season
Winning my first race in the States during Superweek, Chicago. (Read Josie's race report...)

Next races / goals?
My last international racing will be Oceanias [track racing] in Invercargill during November.

Best experience (on or off the bike)?
Racing with Jeannie Longo during Fitchberg Tour and with Ina Teutenberg when the women's field caught the cat1 men's field during Liberty Classic and Ina called the men a bunch of pussys! Ha ha! They are both Massive Legends in women's cycling.

Were you happy with your 2009 International season?
There is definitely room for improvement. I can't wait for the 2010 season!

When are you back in NZ?
Now. Back at work which is a massive reality check. Three months off to race was a dream!!

Are you planning on riding: Taupo Challenge, Festival of Cycling, Elite Nationals?
I will do Festival of Cycling and Elite Nationals since they are both in ChCh.

Main goal for the NZ season?
What every rider wants I guess .... Form, results and to be injury free.

Related articles on Josie Giddens international season

• Jul 16th - Giddens hits the ground running
• Aug 3rd - Giddens has super week at SuperWeek