Heartache & Handlebars

How has cycling influenced your physical & mental health?

Cycling has had a significant impact on my physical and mental health. While I've always been active, cycling helped me uncover heart issues that I was unaware of. I have a genetic predisposition to heart disease suffered a heart attack during a Zwift race at age 43. Since that time, I've been able to address the heart issues with surgery and medicine, and still enjoy riding several events per year.

Is cycling social or solitary for you?

Both. I enjoy doing solo workouts and the occasional shake-out, but also really enjoy riding with my club and larger events.

Do you enjoy participating in cycling events or competitions? Are you competitive against the field or just yourself?

I love events. I love the community around cycling. While I'm incredibly competitive, I generally compete with myself or bragging rights with my club. I don't do events to race competitively.

Have you made any lifestyle adjustments as a result of your cycling habit?

I eat a little better, I train a little harder, and I drink a lot less. Those things are easy when you see the gains.

Have you introduced anyone else to cycling? If so, what was their response?

A few. So far, they seem to enjoy the sport and embrace the culture.

In your own words, how has cycling changed your life?

I rode BMX as a kid but rediscovered cycling during Covid. During this time, I became passionate about road cycling, and later gravel. I fell in love with the culture, the personal challenge, and the health benefits. As an Executive, I spend a lot of time at a desk and in meetings. It's nice to balance that work with the physical exertion and the mental freedom of cycling. - Coloradotown, USA

What is your biggest personal cycling achievement or most memorable experience?

I think my biggest achievement is doing the Triple Bypass post heart attack. But my favorite experiences are the race weekends away with the boys. We support each other and don't take ourselves too seriously. We're just there for the good times.

Have you experienced any challenges or setbacks related to cycling? How did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge is balancing what I "want" to do with what I "should" do. I want to push myself to the limit and I want to compete. I just have to temper those expectations with what is safe for my body. Heart issues suck. Asthma sucks. Aging sucks. My head wants to compete.

If you could ride your bike anywhere in the world, where would that be and why?

I love climbing. Whether it's the historic climbs of France and Italy or isolated mountain landscapes, I just want the challenge.