All of us well know that the economy has been less than stellar this last year but my year on the bike has been a good one. In fact, it was my best one yet. There were several key goals that I had put for myself that I was finally able to accomplish - a sub 5 hour century, STP in less than 12 total hours, a gold medal at the Tour of Tucson, and upgrading my bike to have Dura Ace components and Mavic wheels.
I was able to ride 400 more miles than last year, totaling 5,750 miles, 343 hours, spread across 176 rides - 7 rides greater than 100 miles, 33 rides more than 50 miles. My wheels took a West Coast sweep, hitting the pavement in California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona and I spent some time on an exercise bike in Illnois.
There were some magnificent rides along the way that made all the miles so enjoyable. Solvang with my Pops and Jens and then down the PCH with Jens, the hills of Ramona (Thanks Bob!), STP without rain with Mark pulling me home, Bald Peak with Craig, doing the 50 miler with Craig and then again with the Scouts, cruising the Vine Ride with Glenn, riding in all different types of weather and temperatures and many others but the top pick, Friday before the STP with Christine. Granted, the topper wasn't a ride but it was related to a ride.
Cycling again this year has given me not only a hobby, health, and sanity, it has been a vehicle to reconnect with family and friends. I really appreciate my family, especially Christine, for the patience and support of my passion (laundry, the "could you get me _____ please for my ride" calls, early morning alarm clocks, food, etc.). I could not have done all this without the help.
I don't know what is in store for 2010. I hope to ride STP again, the Mt. Shasta Challenge, the Vine Ride, and the Tour of Tucson. As with most of us, the economy will dictate the rides I do this year again. What I do know is that my Ferrari red Specialized Tarmac will be out and about in Yamhill and Washington counties.
See you on the road....
