Getting to Know You!

[ChocolatePizzaR]

Real name: Tara

Where do you live? Westford, MA, but I grew up outside Burlington Vermont and that still feels like home too.

Explanation of your handle: My handle is usually ChocolatePizzaRedWine, for the three reasons I started riding, but this board shortened it.

Explanation of your avatar: Haven't found a suitable one yet...

Age (general or specific): 40-something, but I feel 20-something.

Occupation: I teach things... Indoor cycling, water aerobics, children's swim lessons currently.

Favorite bike: My high-end Sequoia Specialized. Very cushy. I'm willing to sacrifice a little speed for comfort.

What's in your stable? See above, plus a Giant MB and a couple of old Trek hand-me-downs from my hubby.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 40mph going down a hill in Harvard MA. I usually "whoop!" when I break the speed limit on my bike, but not that time. I was too scared!

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I'll have to figure out how to do that.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "I weigh 129 pounds."

Most memorable moment on my bike: Finishing my first century a month before I turned 40.

Why? When I was young, I was diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease called myasthenia gravis. My parents were told that I'd be in a wheelchair by the time I was 25, I wouldn't be able to lift my arms by the time I was 30, and I'd be dead shortly thereafter. Thanks to some medical advances and a lot of luck, I'm not. Riding 100 miles in one day was something I never dreamed I could do. I cried when I crossed the finishline.

Most fun ever had on a bike? It's all fun!