Today, I rode out in Hanover with the boys from Team in Training. I haven't ridden much out there - and I'm wondering why. It's so pretty. We did a 50-miler that included the three sisters and their crazy cousin. The hills aren't really that bad, particularly in comparison to the mighty Ironman Lake Placid bike course or the Blue Ridge parkway (granted, both of those rides take place in actual mountain ranges). I think it's just the second sister that is surprisingly (as in granny gear surprising) steep.
Anyway, I heard myself saying to one of my riding partners that I "used to be a triathlete."
Weird - what a difference a year makes.
My comment reflects, I think (here goes a little self-analysis), a defense mechanism on one hand - and a positive outlook on the other.
I have tried a little running - and...big ouch. My knees did not appreciate that. I'm not sure they really ever will.
And so, I find myself focusing instead on what I can do.
I can ride my bike. It's not quite as convenient as running, but what is?
Ironically, we rode the last 30 miles of our ride with Casey. Casey won (yes, won) the Richmond marathon two years ago (and qualified for the Olympic marathon trials in the process). Now, she's sidelined with a major hip injury (and it's up in the air if she can run again).
And there she was, riding right along with us.
Life is unpredictable. It can be mean. It can be unfair.
To quote some little note my mom used to have hanging in her kitchen, "When God sends us on stony paths, he provides strong shoes."
These days, my sweet Sidi cycling shoes are the strongest ones I wear.
6 comments:
If my blog ever grows up, I want it to be just like your blog.
When you get a lemon or two, just keep making lemonaide. I will have to try this biking myself someday.
I love you and your outlook. Can't wait to see you in November!
great blog!
we're in the same neck of the woods if you'd ever like to try out Crossfit to supplement your endurance training.
Hugs. Whatever you are doing, we want to be with you - you make everything special and fun. When are we riding, btw - got some miles to put in before our century!
SQ,
You are one totally awesome individual. I loved reading this and can't wait to go one some rides with you in the near future. And I totally remember the girl, Casey, who won the Richmond Marathon. Incredibly memorable.
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