By the time 2001 rolled around, I was riding well, but always felt timid because my knees had been reconstructed four times. I knew the next time I ripped my knee apart I would have to call it quits because the surgeons had already taken all the cartilage out of my knees. The UGP Roots contest was my last contest. In my last run I wrecked myself on a downside feeble across the sub box, as I came into the quarter my foot planted and knee popped out of place. By the time I got up I knew it was all over and the next phase of my life would begin, after another surgery of course.
After reconstruction and rehab #5, I went back to college, got my B.A. in Business, and minored in graphic design. Every time I was hurt, I ended up shooting photography and had an interest in graphic design so I was able to get a formal education in those interests. For a few years I was a freelance web developer/photographer working with agencies in the Monterey Bay area that needed my help. As a freelancer, income always fluctuates and can be frustrating, so I decided to focus on getting into an agency working on print, web and photography projects. I've been at Full Steam, a full service marketing agency for a year and a half now. I work in all departments of the company and work on the photography projects. It's great when you work with talented individuals as a team because you not only meet the clients’ expectations, but you meet your own.
Riding has definitely taken a back seat in my life. Although I miss the traveling and riding with great riders, I appreciate the fact that when I ride, it's completely on my own terms. The pain of progression has taken a backseat and made room for only the good times. – Joey Garcia
