A couple years ago, a friend of mine said, “A few of us are training to do a 100-mile ride in Arkansas. You should do it.” At the time, I think my longest ride ever had been about 30 miles. Hey, why not?
Not only did that ride turn out to be one of the most fun, most soul-stirring adventures I’ve undertaken, but it turned me into an actual cyclist and drew me into an unexpected brotherhood. I feel so fortunate to be in my late 50s and still making friends. And I’m proud to report that cranking out 50 miles on a Saturday morning is now something I look forward to rather than dread.
I never got to meet Carson, but at least once on every ride, I think about him, and I think about why I’m on the bike. It’s about keeping these old bones moving and helping that guy on my back wheel do the same. And it’s about stopping midway through at La Rue, where they make the best donuts in the world. Cookie Butter Brioche?
Why not!
Tim Rogers
