Leigh Donovan and Jennifer Gabrielli

For TANGERINE owners, Leigh Donovan and Jennifer Gabrielli, owning a clothing boutique was the farthest thing from their minds. Leigh was enjoying huge success as a professional mountain bike racer, with over ten years in the hub of the cycling community, she accumulated national and world championship titles, winning countless events in both BMX and downhill mountain biking.

Leigh could be seen in any mountain bike magazine (racing or through interviews) or atop the podium every weekend. A former World Champion, Leigh was looking forward to a long, fulfilling career in the cycling industry.
While Jennifer dabbled in bike racing (that's how the girls met), her real talent was in the field marketing and public relations and for nearly 10 years, she headed up marketing departments in the action sports industry, fitting in some racing on the side.

In 1999, the girls landed the same sponsor and became teammates, racing for Intense Cycles, a Temecula-based custom mountain bike manufacturer. Leigh and Jennifer became fast friends and kept in touch after the season ended. In 2001, following Leigh's retirement from pro racing, Jenn tipped her off to job in her field and once again, the girls were working together and having lots of fun.

It was at a trade show in Las Vegas in 2002 when the girls began making plans to open a clothing store together.
Exactly one year later, the duo signed their lease at the Bel Villaggio shopping center (which was yet to break ground at the time).

This summer, Tangerine is celebrating its SEVEN year anniversary and the girls have not looked back.  The store has gained a reputation for having great clothes and fabulous service.
Leigh and Jennifer also realize the importance of giving back to their community and Tangerine has become a well-known contributor to local organizations and individuals in need.