Heinrich Suechting

Tell us something about yourself, who are you and what makes you tick?
I'm Heinrich, I'm 19 years old and I love mountain biking! I grew up in flat Berlin and started there early with motocross riding. From the age of 14 I rode more and more MTB and quickly fell in love with the sport.

Racing or just riding? And why?
Very difficult question, because I really enjoy doing both. Hometrail laps and parkdays with friends are always super fun and I can hardly get enough of them. Racing is a different kind of fun for me. Even though you always put a bit of pressure on yourself there, I find it very interesting to analyze your own riding in detail and to perfect it. When you get a good run at the end, or even end up on the podium, there's hardly a better feeling.

What is your best MTB experience so far?
Besides many bike park trips, which I remember fondly, I always enjoy how well the MTB scene is networked and almost everyone gets along with each other. Making new acquaintances and friends is a great experience every time and, in my opinion, one of the most valuable things about MTB.

Why do you love MTB riding?
Besides the social interaction, MTB riding is in my eyes, simply the ideal sport. You get out of the city and can explore both the local forest and, for example, the mountains and gelaterias of the Ligurian coast, while still doing a joint-friendly and adventurous workout. In addition, when I ride a trail a little faster or a race run, I can completely clear my head of everyday problems. In those moments, it's just me and the trail, and I only know that feeling from sports like mountain biking.

What are you most proud of in your MTB career so far?
I am proud of the fact that I have always competed very independently and with little support. For example, I almost always travel to the races by train and often just stay in a tent. That's how I became German U19 champion, for example. It's also a big honor for me every time i can compete in the World Cup.

Some advice that you would give to a young MTB kid who would also like to become a pro rider one day.
You shouldn't try too hard to become a pro. It's best to just get lots and lots of hours on the bike and keep it fun. If you ride a lot, the progress comes all by itself, here applies: Practice makes perfect!