How long have you been cycling? My dad bought me my first Schwinn bike for a first communion gift, and I’ve loved all things bikes ever since. I started serious road biking about fifteen years ago when a friend challenged me to train for the Utica Ride For Missing Children. After that, I moved and got involved in the RFMC as a shepherd and committee member in the Syracuse and Finger Lakes areas.
How many miles a year do you typically ride? Up to 100 miles per week during the riding season.
What is your greatest cycling accomplishment? I completed a Touring Leadership Course with Adventure Cycling Association in Florida, planning to lead tours after I retired. Although I decided it was more fun to ride for pleasure than to lead tours, it was an amazing experience living with people from all over the country and simply existing with only a bike for transportation.
Why did you join MVBC, and what have you enjoyed most? I’m not a fan of riding alone. In the past, I experienced a crash and have friends who have been seriously injured while riding alone. Four years ago, I moved back to the Utica area to take care of my mom before she passed. I joined the club to find like-minded people to ride with. I’ve met great people.
What’s your favorite place to ride? In this area, I enjoy going out of Hamilton College to Madison County. In Syracuse, my favorite hill climb is called 13 Curves. I also enjoy the organized events by Cycle Adirondacks. They’re very well done.
What’s your funniest moment on the bike? While following a friend who was taking a curve too fast, I watched him fly off his bike, do some somersaults, and disappear into a ditch full of tall grass. I was terrified and went looking for him. He popped his head up and said, “I’m fine!” Not a scratch on him. When I think about the scene, it’s hysterical.
What is one future cycling goal you have? I’d like to do a bike and barge tour to visit the historic WWII sites in Normandy, France.
What’s the best advice you have for a new rider? When you’re learning to climb a hill, don’t look at the top. Keep your eyes on the road ahead of you.