Super. Bike.

First of all thanks to all of those who supported me as I rode in the first-annual Climate Cycle ride a few weeks months ago (early May).  It seems like a while ago now, and I apologize for not getting this recap up here earlier. I really appreciate everyone’s monetary support and words of encouragement – in the short time, I exceeded the fund-raising goal I set for myself thanks that the help of so many good friends and family.

When I woke up the morning of the event, the weather looked ominous. It was cold, overcast and strong winds were blowing about. Caitlin inquired about the possibility of the event being cancelled, and because the odds on that seemed so low, I decided I had to make my way to the event regardless of the poor conditions. Keep in mind, we’re talking about May 9th here – but the weather in Chicago never seems to do you any favors. I hopped on the train with the bike, made my way down to the stop closest to Soldier Field, and moseyed over there. It was generally cold and unpleasant, and the waiting around to start didn’t help things either.

Phooey.

After registering, signing off on all required waivers and confirming that I’d met the minimum fundraising goal, I was off. I’d hoped to have a partner to ride with, but Danny had gone conspicuously MIA since the night before. We’d exchanged phone calls – but he wasn’t leaving me messages and I had the sinking feeling that I could tell where it was going. On my own, the ride was a bit chilly at first, but after getting the muscles warmed up, it was a lot of fun. Since the pace of the ride was one continuous ride, instead of some of the street riding I’m used to, it even seemed to pass quickly. After I realized my safety would probably not be jeopardized, I popped in the headphones and just pedaled away.

All was going smoothly, until the return approach where a volunteer waved me past the starting point. I’d consulted the map the organizers had provided and thought we were only supposed to go back to the starting place, but I continued on, based on the brief exchange with the volunteer. It wasn’t until I reached Grand, having gone over the bridge that I validated my own suspicions about the volunteer’s misdirections. I’d seen other bikers beyond the starting point, but in retrospect, I think those bikers were simply just biking and not riding in a charity event. The decoys also did not help.

Dude it's me. I cycled.

After the ride, I picked up my goodie bag with a few coupons and snacks, grabbed a free Chipotle burrito, which I scarfed down even thought it was only 10:30AM at that point, and made my way home. It was a fun experience, day and ride, until I had a minor crash caused by a big groove in the bike path that I encountered on the way home. Licking my wounds, I made my way back to the train and relaxed after the whole thing.

Thanks again for all of the support. It is very much appreciated.
Ryan