Next to my dearest husband, Richie is my fave 'cross star! He has the best line on the sport, building bikes, living life, and surrounding himself with wonderful people. My time living in my car during 2006 and knocking around with his cyclocross crew was something I remember often and fondly. Okay, the living in the car part was a bit tough, but hey...I was livin the dream.
I got my weekly email from e-Richie today.
Every time I hear from that guy I am reminded again how much I love the sport of cyclocross. To race again? Probably not. But to celebrate? Absolutely!
I remember how time and again, eyeballs bleeding and tongue hanging out, every muscle screaming for mercy...I went back to the well. Again and again. Asking my body for one more pedal stroke. One more barrier cleared without bashing my shin. One more spandexed butt to chase down and pass in my quest for whatever private (or public) podium I pursued. I remember how I rode out of my gourd during the 2006 National Championships and surprised everybody. I learned some lessons about myself that day and still tap into them from time to time. It was an out-of-body experience, watching myself ride up there with America's best. I will never forget it.
(And that wasn't even my most memorable race, if THAT gives you any idea of how deep a passion for 'cross one can have.)
But enough me-ness (hello...pro cycling-bred habit!). Let's celebrate the one who makes the most lovely of bikes. Bikes people wait for 4 years to own, gladly giving him their money in advance just to have a chance to ride such a magical chrome pony.
Keep on keepin on, e-Richie. I will see you at HPCX!
Meow.
1 comment:
Fantastic post!! It's amazing what your body can accomplish when you put everything in sync. Makes me miss soccer these days... the joys of injuries.
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