Daddy-o

It goes without saying, we had a great Palomar Mountain Tweetup yesterday. Wonderful folks and weather. Even a first-time ascent for some, including @mneedham. For others, such as @RideEscapade, @dhaley, and @gman920, it was another chance to experience the beauty of a world-class climb. For me, a time of reflection and maximum heart rate. I have learned to love that mountain and what it represents: challenge, triumph and humility. Riding on it the day before Father’s Day held particular special meaning. Sharing time with riders whose children may be running about in diapers stirred up fantastic memories. Different chapters of life. Growing pains. Sleepless nights. Seems a lifetime ago. Parenthood shapes our world view and keeps us awake to the possibilities in front of us. Striving always. Celebrating the wins. Accepting the losses. Without our families and their support, we wouldn’t be able to devote a big portion of Saturday in the saddle to chase our bicycle dreams.

This morning, I awoke to hand-written messages from my wife and our two daughters. The dogs watched as cards were ripped opened, read and digested. Eyes welled up momentarily. The words on paper mean more to me now than ever before. I can’t stop thinking about them and this: Family is forever. We are so damn lucky. Happy Father’s Day.

Daddy needs a new pair of shoes Q: The offseason is the perfect time to do what? Eat and sleep with abandon Experience the horrors of U.S. air travel Watch pro cycling DVDs Try out new cycling shoes for no apparent reason A: For me, #4 rocketed to top position this month. Of course, I’ve enjoyed my...
If I could change the world If I could change the world, we’d smile at least 10 times a day. If I could change the world, every compliment would be genuinely pure. If I could change the world, we’d listen more. If I could change the world, we’d talk less. If I could change the world,...
Bonktown There comes an occasional time in the life of every road cyclist when things go bonk. The bonk doesn’t gently tap you on the shoulder from behind. It punches you in the face with such power, you swear you just absorbed the left hook of Mike Tyson — in a very...
The ‘Deal Kitchen’ Here’s the deal: You get one shot. No matter who you are. Whether you’re good, bad or indifferent. Whether at the peak of youth, in the final stages, or barely beyond the start line at the highest professional levels. So much can happen. The seemingly impossible can go two directions so...
Post-ride You know the sensation — the rush. Endorphins take hold shortly after finishing a big day on the bike. Nothing compares. At least nothing I can think of. It’s a happy place. After the last climb, the final pull at 30 mph, and the dismount, all is right with the...