I did a lot of cycling while in college (84-89). It was a wonderful way to release tension associated with my course work. It also was a great way to avoid the parking hassles that existed on campus. Whenever the weather permitted I would make a 20-25 mile commute (one way) from home to campus. Sadly, upon completing my graduate degree and taking a full-time job my bike was put into storage and sat for nearly 15 years. Four years ago I pulled my bike out, dusted it off, had it serviced and returned to the wonderful world of cycling. With each passing year I have grown more passionate about my riding and I have learned I'm capable of a lot more then I gave myself credit for. I just turned 46 and I now am back to what I weighed when I graduated from high school in 1980 (120 lbs). I did not pull my bike out to work off weight simply to revisit something I loved many years ago. However, since returning to cycling I have dropped 20 pounds (the past two years) and my body is looking pretty darn good .

I ride because I love it. Riding gives me a sense of freedom I've never experienced with any other activity I have tried. The stronger I become on my bike the more I want to ride. I guess some would call this an obession. I view it as a healthy way to work of stress, stay healthy and spend a lot of my free time with some great people. I ride because it is fun and it allows me to eat some of my favorite foods (in moderation).