How Cruz's family helped him become one of the most humble and exciting competitors in downhill racing
Tegan Cruz is just 16 years old, which makes him the youngest member of the RockShox Trek Race Team, itself the youngest team on the downhill racing circuit. His first season was a whirlwind of learning experiences that featured two U17 gold medals at Crankworx Innsbruck, and a step up to the Pro category at Crankworx Whistler, where he took 10th in the infamous Psychosis Downhill event.
Cruz is going to be even busier next season. In 2022, he’ll take on the junior UCI MTB World Cup circuit for the first time, beginning on March 26 in Lourdes, alongside teammates Jamie Edmondson and 2021 elite women’s overall World Cup winner Vali Höll.
RockShox recently looked back at Cruz’s year, and shed light on how his family, including older brother Lucas, shaped him into a humble and determined competitor. Watch the video below, and read the story here.
Last year, Cruz also traveled with Edmondson and Höll as they raced in Europe. The experience only made him more excited to head overseas again in 2022.
“The whole time I was there, it was amazing to watch and learn before my first year racing as a junior,” Cruz said. “The whole time watching them ride, I just wished I was out there. I’m excited to fully be in the big show next year.”
Every race with Cruz this season will be an adventure, and you won’t want to miss a minute.
