This week is the tour of Utah. It has been great to follow some of the stories. But this puts a whole new class of riders into perspective for me. These are the pros... these are the guys that compete in the Tour De France and the Olympics. These are they who have a career in cycling who dedicate their time and efforts every day into racing. These are they who are the creme of the crop, the hopefuls, the worn out and the rising generation of cyclists.
Good luck to all those cyclists that are in this group, whether it is your debut or you have been doing this all your career. Utah is no child's playground for cycling. This is your chance to be the best you can be and help those future hopefuls improve themselves.
I think I'm slowly realizing that my dreams of an Olympic appearance is just never going to happen. My heart is somewhat saddened by this journey because I'll never know what could have been if I had only done things a little different many years ago. I believe in myself, but I'm afraid my age and timing in coming to this sport are completely off the charts for an Olympic dream. I don't think I ever felt like I had a chance at a medal in the Olympics but it was worth a look.
Did I honestly think I could do it? My destination was an Olympic debut but my journey has been much wider. I have ridden almost 5000 miles since last September that is more miles on Bicycle than I ever had put on in my life. I will probably round out the complete year of cycling (sep 2009 - sep 2010) with almost 6000 miles under my belt. I have lost nearly 30 lbs... mostly to hard work and a little dieting. I feel great, I feel better about myself and who I am. I have seen much of the Valley that I love. I love my surroundings and where I live. I enjoy meeting new people and making new friends, something I haven't done in years. Cycling has brought out a side of me I haven't seen since High School. It has been something I miss. It has restored confidence in myself to a degree I never thought possible.
I have a greater appreciation for all those that take on this challenging sport. I respect you and what you have accomplished. I watch out for you as I pass through the canyon each day and I pray for our safety each day we ride.
Do I have regrets in this journey? The only regret is that I wish I would have started this journey much sooner, say in my early 20's, instead of mid 30's. I don't know where it would have taken me but it's something I'll just never know and I can only speculate.
My only dream now is to compete in the LOTOJA Classic this fall. I have signed up and the journey has brought me here. I don't know what will come of it and I hope I do my best. It's all I can ask of myself... It's all anyone can ask for.
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