01st Aug 2007
Last of the Mohicans
Cycling has turned into more of a long-term endeavour than I initially expected. When I decided to ride full-time to see what I could do at the age of 19 I thought that by the age of 30 I would have achieved pro-dom and moved on to bigger and better things – namely family and a University degree leading to some sort of top-exec-suit job. Little did I know what I was getting involved in.
Ten-plus years later and I’m still at it, racing full-time, and this despite having retired on more than one occasion (see earlier interview with Jake for full-details). On occasion I feel a bit like the last of the Mohicans; not too many of the people that I started riding with are still racing, let alone riding.
This last week was a treat as I had one of my oldest friends, Juan, with whom I started riding, in town for a visit. As a teenager on summer vacation the days were filled up with riding, the Tour (it always felt like once the Tour was over so was summer) and part-time work. There were three of us that used to get out each day: Juan, John and myself. During Juan’s visit all three of us got out together for the first time in years. What a blast from the past. On the bike with these guys I was reminded why I loved this sport so much. We cruised and had a great time.
A subtle reminder as to why I liked the sport was just what I needed last week. At the time I was questioning the meaning of life, spending the nights tossing and turning and generally walking around with a brain like a mushy vegetable. In short I was completely cracked mentally. Despite obvious symptoms I didn’t immediately diagnose my ailment, making for a tough week of self-loathing and general melancholy.
This week I’ve done nothing but sleep, sleep and sleep some more. Four twelve hour nights of sleep was just what I needed to get things back on track. A few more days of rest and it’s time to start prepping up for the last bit of the season. Now that I’ve ridden again with my amigos and been reminded how much I love the bike I’m good to go. Bring it on.
Yup, cycling is sweet, especially with my 2 other amigos.
Although as you know I don't ride as much these days as I use to (cause I have one of suit-exec-jobs you mentioned in your other posting) today I did my usual Sunday ride. It consisted of another 110km solo ride, which I started in the rain (Why!!?? Cause I am still hardcore, maybe?).
I spend 2 hours of the ride in serious downpours - the sky was so dark that it looked like all that was missing was the tornado. Despite the knowledge that I would have to wash my bike when I got home, I enjoyed every km!
Glad the 3 amigos were able to ride again, and until the next time.
JCS
PS - If JP & I make it out the Pyrenees next month, it'll be too bad that you are not with. Then again, you would probably rip our legs off. :)
I remember the 3 amigos, the Juan "The King of Spain" , John on the TVT and Andrew with the tattoo, of the Campy logo (before the maple leaf). That was some good times back then. I always enjoyed the ride after it was over, just crusing back into the city after a good session. Good times.. good times
P.S. Drop me an email - I have a few q's for ya.