Young as I feel! But am I mad?
Hi out there! I've just bought a Tricross Sport - at the age of 69! I always loved touring on a road bike when I was young, and from time to time over the years did a spate of morning training runs as I always felt good after them. This new bike is so that I can do a wider variety of riding - woodland trails, cycle paths etc - though NOT mountain bike racing. Round here it is VERY hilly and though I have this dream of cycling on ""till I bid the world good-bye" I hope the cycling might keep it at bay awhile yet! Is there anyone of the same mindset out there to tell me I am not crazy? - I get funny looks from my friends if I say I am in training for the Alps!
Young as I feel - But am I mad?
Thank you to all you lovely cycling ladies who are cheering me on; I feel so happy about finding this great forum! Now I know there are others like me who like the wind in their hair, the pleasure of feeling their bodies working hard to get uphill, the thrill of the descent, and the joy of looking at the landscape quietly and travelling at a speed which gives you time to take it in, whatever the age. In some magical way cycling also seems to erase negative thoughts. I can set out feeling really snarly but after an hour on the bike !the world seems a great place again!
Happy hours in the saddle to you all!
Thanks - and first attempt.
Big thanks to Caecilia for the radio item on Madeleine McGroom, who rode up l'Alpe d'Huez - there is inspiration for me! Alpine passes are exactly what I want to do! Luckily I have an ever-encouraging husband so I am hoping to achieve.
Also to SouthernBelle who linked me up with photos of all manner of cyclists - men too! supporting the Breast Cancer ride. I loved the WICKED logo. As a Survivor of some 13 years I thank all of you who supported the event on behalf of those who will profit by it later.
Took my new bike out for its first airing today (only got it home last weekend and was too busy to take it out :o( ) This was quite hilarious. I sneaked out early to have a secret trial - only to find workmen on a neighbour's roof! This was especially embarassing as we live on a hill and I got very muddled up by the three chainrings and the hand-shifters on the bars (my last bike had them on the down tube and only 2 chainrings) I had to get off to see what on earth was happening three times! aargh! then again the saddle was not quite right - so I did not make the graceful impression I had intended at all!
Going back with my tail between my legs resolved to get up even earlier tomorrow to beat the crowds, before they charge admission! I know one thing, though. Once I get the gear shifting right I am going to have one whole whale of a time!
