People ask me why I love riding the bike and why I am so fanatical about it. The answer is simple: CHANCES. Now some of you maybe a bit confused at the answer, so let me explain:
1. As I am coasting down the wonderful Newport Beach coastline on PCH, there is a chance that my doctor will give me some positive news on my next physical.
2. As I am drafting a paceline down the Santa Ana River trail from Yorba Linda to Huntington Beach, there is a chance that I won’t gain an ounce of weight from the pasta dinner I had the evening before.
3. As I am keeping an 18-20mph pace on the LA River trail to Long Beach, there is a chance that I may be able to walk both my girls down the aisle.
4. As I am sprinting to the finish line on the Palm Springs Century ride, there is a chance that I may not need to resort to an electric scooter when taking my future grandkids to Disneyland.
5. As I am climbing the famous hill of Torry Pines on the MS150 Bay-to-Bay ride, there is a chance that I may get to see my future grandchildren get married.
6. As I am riding through the lush vineyards surrounding Solvang, there is a chance that I may be able to celebrate my 50th wedding anniversary with my wife.
7. As I am climbing the majestic, yet treacherous, Azusa Canyon to Crystal Lake, there is a chance I may be able to tie my own shoes at the age of 70.
8. As I am watching the beautiful sunset on top of Santiago Canyon during a gel stop, there is a chance that I may witness the birth of my first great-grandchild.
9. As I am battling the headwinds during the Sea Otter Classics in the scenic roads of Salinas County, there is a chance I may get to witness the return of Halley’s Comet.
10. As I am walking my bike back into the garage after an 80+ mile around Orange County’s best riding spots, there is a chance that I may have kept death at bay for one more day.
I fully know that nothing in life is guaranteed and that my life can end at any moment. But if there is a chance that any of these can come true every time I hop on the saddle, then I believe it is a chance worth taking.
That is why I ride.
Near Crystal Cove along PCH in Newport Beach, CA.