A short explanation (excuse) of competitive cycling: we have five year age groups. Especially in the older groups, one or two years makes a big difference. This year I am in my fourth year, and mostly competing against fast, "young" guys who have aged up to the 80-84 category. That said, I'm pleased with my outcomes.
In March I earned gold in the Senior Games State 5km and 1km time trials and 20km road race here in Austin. Then took bronze at the Davy Crockett time trial in early May, and a week later was first in the USA Cycling State Championship 20k time trial.
Racing at Nationals continues to highlight my cycling. Attendance in Wisconsin and Iowa, with R&R in Georgia in between resulted in our Butterfly Trip.
Annually, the State Road Race Championships at Fort Hood signals the end of the racing season for me. This year sponsorship was lacking and the race was cancelled. Everyone was disappointed. Then another organization took it up, but given the short notice wasn't as well attended as previous years. That is how I ended up in September, racing in Oatmeal, Tx. I'll spare you the details, but due to logistics, rather than racing 33 miles, the age groups 70 and over only covered thirteen. I was the only one in the 80+ category, so am the State Champion for another year. The new sponsors actually awarded jerseys to the winners (as opposed to allowing the winners to purchase one), so I have a new championship jersey to add to my collection.
Constant Vigilance, as Professor Moody would say. I lost
concentration while cycling on a very safe hike and bike trail in May. At each entrance and exit of these trails are
placed bollards to prevent motor vehicles from entering. I managed to not be looking and hit a pole
head on. That garnered a trip to the ER
and 23 staples in my left arm. Now
hardly noticeable.
All of these are written up fully if you want to scroll down.
