What was your most rewarding result (personally) in 2015?
Merle van Benthem: It’s not really a visible result, but overcoming my injuries the way I did meant the most to me this season. I fractured my back in the beginning of the season what put me off the bike for a couple of months, but still made the World Cup final in Manchester. And still got some important country points in when I torn my ACL completely just before Argentina and Rockhill. Who do you think kicked ass in the Elite Men class this year?
Merle van Benthem: Niek Kimmann for sure!
Who impressed you most in the Elite Women class?
Merle van Benthem: Mariana Pajon
Do you remember when you heard the news that BMX Plus! magazine was no more?
Merle van Benthem: Yeah I saw it on Instagram or Twitter. But was sad to see it go :( Have you been active on social media in 2015 and where can people follow you?
Merle van Benthem: Yeah I am,
Instagram : Merlevanbenthem
Twitter: Merlevanbenthem
Facebook: MerlevanBenthem75
What track did you like most in 2015?
Merle van Benthem: I always like racing at Papendal. Who did the best move on the track this year that you remember?
Merle van Benthem: Niek Kimmann winning the double dice at Papendal.
What race had the best race conditions?
Merle van Benthem: Manchester haha, no rain and no wind!
Where was the weather horrible to race in?
Merle van Benthem: Sweden SX and World champs in Zolder. Worst crash of 2015?
Merle van Benthem: Steven Cisar at the World Champs in Zolder.
Who had the best looking bike of 2015?
Merle van Benthem: Think our Meybo bikes looked great this year.
Best hotel/place you stayed at in 2015?
Merle van Benthem: Rio!
Worst travel experience this season?
Merle van Benthem: Everything went pretty smooth this year.
Best person you hung out with in 2015?
Merle van Benthem: My roomie (at worlds) Ruby Huisman and always good times with Melinda Mcleod and my boyfriend Liam.
Plans for 2016?
Merle van Benthem: Stay healthy and make the Olympic team.
Pics by Craig Dutton/BdJ