Cycling

 My cycling life began in 1999, the year I took part in my first long-distance event, riding 500 miles over six days from Minneapolis to Chicago.  Since then I’ve pedaled thousands of miles, for recreation, fitness and competition. 

 I rode in three AIDS Rides, in 1999, 2000 and 2001, all on a hybrid bike that I continued riding regularly throughout 2002 and 2003.  My first road bike finally came in 2004, and from there my cycling literally took off!  

After months of consistent road cycling throughout 2004 and 2005, including several centuries, 2006 introduced me to a new aspect of the sport.  Gay Games VII in Chicago was my first experience at racing, and I instantly fell in love with it! 

 

 2007 was my year of the most centuries I’ve done in a 12-month period.  By 2008 my bicycle was definitely showing its age.  That summer I purchased a Cannondale Six13, a definite upgrade that came just in time for my first race of that year: The Brentwood Grand Prix.  2008 became my most active year, as I logged more than 6,200 miles in the saddle.

 I participated in a total of 11 road races and criteriums in 2009, along with becoming a member of Velo Club La Grange.  In 2010, I happily upgraded from Cat 5 to Cat 4.

 Accidents do sometimes happen, which are simply par for the course.

After 4700 miles in 2012 and 5700 in 2013, 2014 broke my annual mileage record– surpassing 2008 even– topping off at 6350.  Today I continue to maintain my weekly cycling performance, while challenging myself to become an even more accomplished road cyclist.