On July 12 and 13, I
rode 207 miles in the Seattle to Portland Ride with my son Sean.
Four years ago, I
could never have imagined doing a ride like this. Even three years ago when I
did my first organized ride (the Tour De Cure) for 27 miles, I did not envision
that I would do back to back centuries. I still have about 30 pounds that I
would like to shed, but that extra weight has not stopped me in becoming more
fit that I have ever been in my life.
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| The route was mainly flat and as you can see here, just beautiful. |
I also could not
imagine four years ago that my adult son Sean would ride this event with me. He
was a great supporter and encouraged me when the route or the heat became hard.
I think there were times when I surprised him at my stamina (like riding by him
when he was trying to keep a slower base). He drafted me across many parts of
the route which saved my energy for when I needed it (the hills). Plus, he was
just good company. I would never recommend riding an event like the STP without
a companion.
Finally, as I rode along the route, I was amazed at the diversity of people that rode. All body types and sizes participated, including a few kids aged about 10-14. It was a long ride, but it was something many people could do with proper training. It was not a race, it was a cycling event.
What about you, have you ever wanted to challenge yourself with a physical event? Maybe for you it is not the STP or not even cycling. If I can do the STP, you can do something physical, too. I was never an athlete, I still do not consider myself to be. I am someone who got fit by cycling and in the process found that I enjoy cycling tremendously.
Enjoy your day and thanks for stopping by.
Michele
