When my brother-in-law invited me to join his team for the Peninsula 100 bike ride in Door County, Wisconsin, I had no idea what WhyNot? was really about. I figured it would be fun, and I needed some exercise anyway. Besides, I’d done it before—back when I was 15, a couple of friends and I rode from Wisconsin to Maine over two weeks, averaging 100 miles a day. How bad could it be?Well… it wasn’t too bad. But it was definitely a lot harder than it was almost four decades earlier. Training through Wisconsin’s cold spring, dealing with flat tires, sore legs, and more aches and pains than I care to admit was part of the challenge. It was tough—but not overwhelming—and honestly, I was excited to put a big goal out there and see it through.
It wasn’t until race weekend that I really understood the mantra behind WhyNot? Meeting the team—and especially Carson’s parents—gave the ride deeper meaning. It wasn’t about the bike ride anymore. It was about inspiring ourselves and others. It was about challenging yourself, overcoming obstacles, and living life fully. Turning What Ifs into Why Nots, and eventually into Remember Whens.
Riding 100 miles in a day was a great accomplishment. Along the way, I made some great friends and became part of something that meant more than just miles on a bike. After hearing Carson’s story, I’m motivated to keep going and see what my next Why Not might be.
Aaron Block
