Personally, I think the responses may have been not the usual TE "welcoming" because the OP made it clear that she "wanted to play with the boys" and that generally, we seem like a bunch of wussies. I fully own up to that label, but I wouldn't put Nerdgirl down for doing what she likes. But, it was the way she said it. Condescending, if you ask me, because I don't think there's that many men I know, who ride, that would want to do downhill. It's fine if you do, but at least for me, I care more about preserving my bones. I guess that's why I don't do much mountain biking anymore.
This is why, sometimes, I prefer to ride/lead rides for with people just starting out, or who ride slower than me. They are so appreciative. I mean, I know there's people out there a lot tougher than this 56 year old woman, but on the other hand, most of the women I know can't fathom doing what I do.
It's the way you say it...