Cycling: how it all began

There are times in life when one simple action can have a profound impact on your perspective.  In March of this year, I did something ordinary which gave me the extraordinary confidence to pursue what has now become the 43 Project.  

I bought a bike. 

For years I had been crossing paths with people doing all sorts of outdoor activities.  I remember often saying to myself “I wish I could do something like that.”  But for a long time, I just couldn’t muster up the courage to try. I think I believed that at my age it was likely too late.  Finally, after a winter of spinning classes, I decided to put my money where my mouth was.    

Although it took me about six weeks of looking at my bike propped up against the wall in my living room, I finally psyched myself up to take a spin around the parking lot.   They say you never forget how to ride. I had my doubts, and really… who are “they” anyway.  

A little wobbly at first, I pushed down one pedal and then the next and miraculously, I didn’t fall off.  “They” were correct.   

I started in May with short rides of one or two hours in length.  In June, Marla convinced me to join her on a Toronto Bike Network excursion.  This was my first mid-distance ride of 42 Km.  I don’t know how long she had to wait for me at the end of the ride, but eventually I made it back. 

Completing that ride was a significant milestone for me. It was my first big physical accomplishment in over 20 years.  Even though I arrived last and an hour later I could barely walk, I felt empowered.  This one mid-distance ride had made me believe that with enough hard work, I could do anything.  Looking back on it, it was the genesis of the 43 project.



Lighthouse at Etobicoke Yacht Club

Since that ride, I have slowly been able to increase my distance. This past Sunday Marla and I decided that we would take the Lakeshore Waterfront Trail to the lighthouse on Leslie Spit and then west along Lake Ontario to the Etobicoke lighthouse.  From High Park and back it’s a 52.7 km trip.  It was a fantastic day and after about 20 minutes on the road I remembered something else from that first mid-distance ride... I really like cycling.    

While I am having a great time this summer getting outside and seeing new parts of the city, I still want to acheive more. So, I  have decided set some new short and long term goals:

• On September 15^th I will compete in my first competitive ride, the Tour de Greenbelt.  I will be taking on the 60km route. 
•  In June 2013, I have my eye on 100k ride from Kingston to Perth,
• In September 2013, I have set an objective to complete the Schuylkill Century in Philadelphia PA.

As always, I will be letting you know how these things work out, and as I build endurance I will be checking in. In the meantime, if there are any good rides in your area please let me know.  I also really like to travel.         

Never quit, 

Mary

Next time I get some advice from my personal trainer on how to stay motivated in the gym       



The Leslie Spit Lighthouse