Yukie had a difficult year in 2004 during which she fended off a variety of medical ailments that prevented her from taking the start line of many races. For 2005, she is looking foward to little redemption and is highly motivated to contribute to the team's successes. Originally from Japan, Yukie moved to California in 1997 along with her husband, Masayoshi, and their two cats. She started riding in 2001, but she puts it, "without any idea of what bike racing was all about." Not surprisingly, the 2001 season saw many ups and downs for Yukie, and made for some interesting stories, as well as scars. Since her first season in 2001, each year has seen Yukie make steady progress toward becoming an elite level rider. A phenomenal climber, Yukie demonstrated her climbing prowess this past season at the Cascade Classic where she nearly climbed her way onto the podium. Her goals for 2004 are to race with her trademark aggressive style but with an eye to using that aggression to the benefit of her teammates. Off the bike, she enjoys cooking, eating, movies, and uses any excuse to spend time with her "Fair Lady" (1972 Datsun 240Z -- even though she gives her grief now and then)