Locals: Trek's Cole Picchiottino - Video

Welcome back to Locals for episode six. This week we headed out to Murrieta, CA to the home of our smartest member of this series, Cole Picchiottino. Cole is one of the few racers ambitious enough to conquer a full college schedule plus full racing schedule. Just one is enough to stress out the average person but Cole manages to push both to a higher level. You can definitely say he's a product of his environment. His father Terry, a middle school principle and maniac on a bike, has passed on his best qualities and work ethics. With a family deeply rooted in racing, Cole has grown up with the support and motivation to conquer all in his path. We were excited to tap into that multi-generational radness by shooting him on some trails that his Dad and Uncle grew up shredding.


At just 20, this young gun has racing experience well beyond his years. Cole started his racing career with cross-country and motocross. Trying his hand at all disciplines of two-wheeled racing, Cole found his true passion to be DH. He quickly honed in his speed on the big bike and earn spots for the USA Junior Worlds team both years he was eligible. This and his commanding performances in the national rounds caught the eye of Trek. Seeing Cole’s intelligence and speed, they selected him to spearhead their Trek Test Team. A race team that doubles as an outlet for Trek to test new and boundary-pushing technologies between the tape. Although we can't go into specifics, a closer look at his bike would leave you flabbergasted.


Picchiottino’s knowledge is not limited to things with wheels. Outside of racing he is on track for a degree in Biomedical Engineering. Usually, people with that kind of thinking capacity stay away from dangerous action sports but Cole uses it to his advantage. Breaking down courses and riding techniques into a science. This gives him the confidence that every line, pump and pedal he takes is the fastest option. Balancing a fully loaded school schedule and race schedule is a full-time job. With such a busy schedule Cole has to always be thinking ahead. Making sure to leave time to have fun on the surfboard and moto is equally important as hitting the gym. Despite all this going on, he even finds time to substitute teach on the side to bring in some funds.


2016 race season has already started for Chipmunk. Living close to Fontucky allows him to get a jump on the year and just like every other aspect of his life, he uses it to its fullest extent. He’s the only racer we know to compete in XC, Enduro, Super D and DH at all Fontana events. On a larger scale, he plans to race the entire Pro GRT series as well as a 3/4 World Cup season. Cole’s first World Cup of the season will be Fort Bill and he will stay on to complete the rest of the schedule. If you're an aspiring racer/student, throw Cole's name in the face of anyone who says you can't do it. This sport is all about what you can do with what's between your ears. If pursuing higher knowledge allows you to build more confidence and speed, then don't shy away from the challenge. Keep your eyes on the prize and get er' done!

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MENTIONS: @suspended-productions / @crazycole / @trek

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