BY STEVE HASSEY

In a Warpath survey conducted in February of 2014, 96.5 percent of Mariemont’s Class of 2014 indicated that they would pursue a post-secondary education.  Kyle Grau, member of Mariemont’s Class of 2013, has taken a different route, one filled with dirt and plenty of bicycles.

“Going into senior year I had already decided I didn’t want to begin college right away.  As school is a big commitment, I didn’t want any distractions while pursuing my cycling career,” said Grau.

Instead, the cyclist has been busy with cycling races around the country.  In the past year alone, he has won the Dual Slalom National Championship, taken first place in several regional events, and finished in the top twenty in multiple national competitions.

Dual slalom, the event in which Grau took national gold, is a two-man race on a dirt hill.

To pursue this career, Grau has had to move from city to city and race to race.  However, in the winter he gets some down time to train in California.

“Typically, during the off-season I try and locate myself to areas that allow me to ride all winter long. For example, this past winter I moved out to Santa Cruz, California. Its cooperating weather and renowned trail system made for an ideal training location,” said Grau.

The Mariemont graduate hopes to one day make a living from his biking passion.  For the time being, however, he receives prize money from races.

“The top thirty in the world are making substantial salaries, and are able to comfortably race for a ‘living.’  I hope that’s me, one day.”

Even with his success in the past year, Grau still hopes to continue improving.

“With every year I’m gaining more and more experience helping me to achieve better results.”