Pioneer in women's slopestyle: Kathi Kuypers
Kathi Kuypers is one of the best-known female freeriders in Germany. The Upper Bavarian is committed to ensuring that women's sport gets a bigger stage. She has always wanted to say these things!
35-year-old Kathi Kuypers grew up in Bruckmühl in Upper Bavaria on the edge of the Alps and now lives in Bad Aibling. 26Trix, Swatch Rocket Air, Audi Nines, Crankworx Slopestyle - Kathi is at home on the big stages of freestyle mountain biking. As a slopestyle pioneer, she is one of the most influential figures on the scene, far beyond the borders of Germany. The passionate skier is not only a professional biker, but also a qualified osteopath. When she's not working on new tricks, she's out in the mountains - always in search of the next adventure.
Kathi Kuypers has always wanted to say this
I'm more into old, cool cars than new Porsches or Lamborghinis. I prefer character to big money - the main thing is honest, loud and a bit old school. My 50cc Suzuki is a piece of junk, but I adore it.
Tricks that I haven't practised to the hilt at home, I don't try at contests. Safety first, ego last - that's my thing!
Dirt, downhill, e-MTB, marathon, enduro or slopestyle - I've ridden every MTB discipline. My motto: the main thing is two wheels.
My happy place? Somewhere between dirt jumps, campfires and friends.
Brandon Semenuk once said to me: "You are just as good as your environment." - He meant that you automatically grow when you ride with people who are passionate, creative and motivated. It's not about who's better - it's about pushing each other and having fun.
My great role model is the skier Sarah Burke
I studied osteopathy to reduce the physical impact of cycling and help the next generation of riders have a healthy, long-term career.
My great role model is the skier Sarah Burke. She fought for women to be allowed to take part in the X Games. Unfortunately, she died in the halfpipe due to a head injury after a fall, but her spirit still inspires me today. A true pioneer!
I don't believe religiously, but I do believe in fate and karma. Everything you give finds its way back - sometimes in a surprising way.
I have a built-in helper gene - that's probably because I'm a big sister. I just can't help but take care of things.
On the podium? I don't like being cheered at all. It makes me feel uncomfortable. I prefer to celebrate with people later.
I am an absolute dancing mouse. After the contest, you're guaranteed to find me at the after-show party.
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Dimitri Lehner
Editor
