Ten years ago, I found myself standing at the crossroads of curiosity and possibility. It was then that a friend's decision to dive into the world of triathlons sparked a flame within me, igniting a passion for cycling that would shape the course of my life in ways I never anticipated.
Credit where credit is due – it was my friend's leap into triathlon training that first introduced me to the exhilarating world of cycling. However, his brief stint in the sport came to an abrupt halt after a series of encounters with less-than-friendly drivers left him shaken. Yet, from those early experiences, my own journey on two wheels began to unfold.
Beyond the influence of my friend's pursuits, another factor played a pivotal role in my decision to take up cycling – the opportunity to share this newfound hobby with my father. A weekend explorer and cycling enthusiast himself, my father's passion for the open road sparked a desire within me to experience the same sense of freedom and adventure.
Unlike my brother, who effortlessly excelled in endurance sports with the ability to run a 5 minute mile without any training, I had always gravitated towards basketball and at the time was in the weight room every day. However, a persistent back issue and the desire to preserve my joint health in hopes I'll be able to play sports with my son, led me to seek out alternative avenues for staying active. Little did I know, cycling would soon become not just a hobby, but a way of life.
My journey into cycling was not without its challenges – from enduring the discomfort of a sore saddle to tackling steep inclines that tested my resolve. Yet, with each pedal stroke, my passion for the sport only grew stronger, fueled by the thrill of conquering new obstacles and pushing my limits.
Balancing Act: As my love for cycling deepened, so too did the challenge of striking a balance between my time on the road and my responsibilities at home. Though my wife may not have shared my enthusiasm for cycling at first, her unwavering support and willingness to join me on adventures have made all the difference and she has helped me with some of my most memorable rides!
Looking Ahead: Now, with the addition of a little one to our family, my time on the road has become more limited, although I'm not complaining (he's pure joy). Yet, even amidst the chaos of parenthood, cycling remains a source of solace, offering moments of escape and reflection in the midst of daily life.
As I embark on this journey of sharing my cycling adventures through this blog, I hope to inspire others to embrace the thrill of the open road and discover the joy that cycling has brought into my life.
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