Week 227

Positive post Sunday, June 27, 2021- Week 227. 

Those that know me well, know my passion for cycling.  So, it should not be a surprise that my Positive Post Sunday for this week is focused on cycling.  Especially since the 2021Tour de France (TdF) started yesterday!  I got up early this morning to watch stage 2 while writing this PPS.  Although I might need to Fact Check this, it’s my understanding that the TdF started in 1903 and has been held annually ever since except when it was stopped for the two world wars.

As I watch the TdF, my mind wanders around the many experiences I have had with cycling (getting my first bike from Santa, teaching my kids how to ride, trying to ride on a tandem with Michele – I love you honey😊, hosting professional cyclists during the Redlands Bicycle Classic (RBC) some who have raced in the TdF, racing myself for a few years, riding each week with my buddies, and the list goes on).  

Cycling is unquestionably a huge part of my life.  Although some may say that cycling has almost taken my life a few times, I would argue that it has saved my life many times over.  Cycling is the foundation of my physical and mental health which keeps my body and mind in good shape so I can continue to be there for my family.  Through cycling, I have also been blessed to meet many of my closest friends whom I have celebrated the good times in our lives with as well as supporting each other during the challenges.

Coincidentally, as I’m multitasking, writing this PPS and watching the TdF, Chris Horner, a member of the NBC broadcast team covering the TdF, popped up on my TV.  Chris was on several teams we hosted during the RBC, including the Miller Lite team, the first team we hosted in1994.  Over the years, Chris has become one of those close friends.  Our family hosted numerous cyclists over a 15-year period of time and if you asked them who their favorite cyclist was, they would unequivocally say Chris.  

I need to get back to watching the TdF and go on a ride before it gets too hot!!  But before I do, let me first share a few cycling quotes I believe have meaning beyond just riding and, of course, my traditional few questions.

“A bicycle ride around the world begins with a single pedal stroke”

Scott Stoll, a Community Professor who traveled around the world on his bicycle

“Crashing is part of cycling as crying is part of love”

Johan Museeuw, former pro rider, twice world champion

“When I’m riding my bike, I’m at peace and with a clear mind, it’s some of my best thinking time”

Dan Rendler, cyclist and author of Positive Post Sundays

What is the cycling example in your life that makes you feel “REALLY DAMN AWESOME”?

“I just need to ride my bike”, what do you just need to do to for your mental and physical wellbeing?

Einstein thought of the Theory of Relativity while riding his bicycle, what do you think of when you ride your bike?