Elaine Nekritz hasn't had much time lately to pursue her passion of cycling. But that's OK--politics are keeping her off the pedals. As State Representative for the 57th House District, Nektriz represents Des Plaines, Niles, Glenview, Northbrook, Mount Prospect and Prospect Heights. And as the chief sponsor of House Bill 1248, she represents every cyclist in Illinois who hopes to legally share the roads. Nekritz also is on the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation Board of Directors. Whether you're in her district or not, I'd like to introduce Chicago Athlete readers to Rep. Nekritz.

Q: What is your background? A: I was born and raised in Wichita, KS. I have lived in Northbrook for 12 years. I am 45 years old and married to Barry Nekritz for almost 12 years. No kids. I don't really have any other hobbies and cycling is my passion in life.

Q: What did you do before being elected to the Illinois General Assembly? A: I am a non-practicing attorney. I practiced law for nine years with Altheimer & Gray (1982-'91). Since leaving law in 1991, I have worked in a bike shop (1992-'96) and for Senator Jeff Schoenberg in his district office (1997-2000). I also pursued numerous volunteer activities, including serving as a board member with the National Council of Jewish Women, as Chair of the Village of Northbrook Community Relations Commission and as Democratic Committeeman for Northfield Township.

Q: How are you involved with cyclists' rights legislation? A: I am the chief sponsor in the House of House Bill 1248--the legislation that seeks to restore bicyclists as intended users of the roads. I also introduced legislation regarding Safe Routes to School funding, but my focus right now is on getting the Bicycle Safety Restoration Act (HB 1248) through the legislature.

Q: How large of an issue is the bikers' rights campaign? A: It depends on who you ask. In the large scheme of things in Springfield, it is not a big issue. The legislation, however, has pitted some very strong interest groups against each other. The municipalities, including the City of Chicago, have come out strongly against HB 1248. They are concerned it will require them to keep their roads in perfect condition for cycling. The Illinois Trial Lawyers Association is supporting the bill in its current form and is resisting attempts to water it down.

Q: How can politicians affect cyclists' lives? A: Politicians set priorities for spending tax dollars. If cycling is a priority, we can promote safe cycling facilities--bike lanes, bike routes and bike paths. All of these can make cycling better at every level, whether for recreation, for commuting, for kids or for racing.

Q: What is Mayor Daley's influence on biking/bike laws in Chicago? A: Mayor Daley has had a significant influence on cycling in Chicago. To its credit, the City of Chicago has continued to develop bike lanes, bike routes and many other bike facilities in spite of the potential liability that it creates. Many other cities have not been so bold and have refused to proceed on bike facilities because of the liability issue.

Q: What is your history with biking? A: I started out as a triathlete in 1985 and did a couple of triathlons. I tried my first bike race in 1986, fell in love with it - even though I crashed out of my first race - and immediately gave up running and swimming. I worked my way to a Category I status and competed in many national level events.

Q: Does your job cut into your cycling schedule? A: Right now, being State Representative is a seven-day-a-week job, and it has dramatically cut into my cycling. The summer before I decided to run for State Rep., I rode 5,000 miles. Last summer, during the campaign, I probably rode 500. I currently ride only a couple of days a week, but now that the weather is better, I am hoping to take a bike to Springfield and find some time to ride in the early morning.

Q: Do you ever ride to Springfield? A: I have spoken with others in politics and in government who are interested in pursuing a ride to Springfield. There are several who are interested in putting it together. Alas, at this point, when I can only ride 25 to 30 miles a couple of days a week, the thought of riding 200 miles in two or three days is a little more than I can take.

Q: Where are your favorite spots to ride in Chicago? A: The velodrome in Northbrook would be one spot. As long as I am riding in a nice group of cyclists, I'm happy riding anywhere.

Q: What has cycling offered you throughout your life? A: It has provided me with a competitive outlet and also given me confidence that with hard work and dedication, I can be successful. That confidence has been very important in pursuing my political career.

To contact Rep. Nekritz's office, call (Springfield) 217-558-1004 or (Des Plaines) 847-257-0450 or email repnekritz@aol.com

Chris McNamara is a Chicago-area freelance writer.