My 2009 Goals

Last year was a disappointing year for me on the bike. I set a goal for myself at the start of the season, and then I wavered. I started my training late, and tried to play catch up. Then I got injured, then sick. I tried to pick the training back up, but my head, and my heart, just wasn't in it. I ended up abandoning my goal, and doing just enough riding to keep myself fit throughout the season. A far cry from my two previous seasons. And I felt it. Not so much in my body, but in my head, and my heart. Giving up nagged me. Stayed with me. Lots of people reassured me that taking a year off was fine. Normal even. But to me, it wasn't.

I don't want that feeling again. So this year I am going public. I am sharing my goals with all of you. And, to prevent myself from being lulled into light training caused by the secure feeling of knowing I have done this before, I am going extra aggressive this year. Adding events that I have always wanted to do, but never prepared for. I am starting my training now, and I want to rely on all of you to keep me motivated (even better if you want to ride with me) and focused throughout the season.My season will start Friday May 15th, when I participate in the 100 mile Ride for Missing Children. This is a truly unique event which benefits the local Rochester Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The ride will criss cross Monroe County, making stops at local Elementary Schools, where the children will greet us, and receive a 20 program on safety.I will quickly turn around, and on Sunday June 7th will join team Mary's Gang/The Bike Zone to complete the 100 mile Tour de Cure. The Tour de Cure benefits the American Diabetes Association, and this years ride begins in beautiful Mendon Ponds Park before heading out for a 100 mile loop around the region.Finally, as in years past, I will wrap up my season the weekend of August 23 by participating in the Philadelphia LIVESTRONG Challenge. Finding a cure for Cancer, and supporting agency's like the Lance Armstrong Foundation are critical, and requires everyone's support. I will once again show my support by aggressively fundraising, and participating in the 100 mile event.

These are big goals set for a big year. I plan to do my part, and impact change for the better, the way I enjoy, on two wheels. I realize I ask this every year, but this year, with so many events on my calendar, I mean it more than ever. Riding, training, and participating in these events is all the more enjoyable when you are doing so with friends and family. So, if you have even considered getting on a bike for yourself, of to help others, make this year the year. Come out and ride with me. I promise you won't be disappointed.