What is your favorite thing about riding? The ability to enjoy the outdoors either by myself or with a group of friends!
Why did you join MVBC, and what have you enjoyed most? I started cycling with MVBC in 2007. A work buddy wanted me to ride with him. As the group took off and left us behind, I realized I needed a new bike. Barb Padula was the ride leader and called to make sure I was okay. When she heard of my plan to get a new bike, she drove me to Dick Sonne’s Cycles, Fitness & Skis that weekend and had me on the road next ride! I have met so many wonderful friends through the club.
How many miles a year do you typically ride? Typically about 2,000 miles a year; the most was 5,000 one year.
What is your favorite route*? Westmoreland to Vernon Center on Bleeker Road and Beaver Meadow Road. Bleeker and Beaver Meadow are my favorite roads because both have very little traffic, and on a hot day, they are fast, shady, and cool.
What’s your funniest cycling memory? One year I ended up doing time trials because Don Whiting told me that is a way to become a stronger rider. In 2014, I ended up tying with Margaret Thompson for the pink jersey. Well. My “love” for the color pink immediately made me tell the race director to just give Margaret the jersey! Then I found out the color didn’t have to be pink, so I settled on a lilac color and laugh every time I look at my prize. Ha!
What is the best advice you have for a new rider? You can ride any hill if you just go your own speed. Don’t worry or try to keep pace with the strongest or fastest rider. I am not the fastest rider, but I work hard and have managed to earn 6 time trial jerseys!
*Chris’s favorite route: 26 miles.