Why do I ride? I can now say…because I can. Goodness, how far back should I go? I’ve always been active. In the ’90’s I played soccer in the Women’s League for about 5 years. In ‘97 I was in a car accident and was told I could never play soccer again because of my neck injury. If I would head the ball (or do a head shot), I may end up in a wheelchair. I was a soccer ref for a while, but I couldn’t stand to watch the game and not play.

So I took up running. To make a long story longer…three years ago, a friend of mine asked if I wanted to buy his bike. He was a great runner and didn’t have any use for his bike anymore. He was part of our running group. So yes, I’ve done my share of running. I even managed a marathon training group for several years. I’ve run 5 marathons, a 50K and about 6 or so 1/2 marathons.

I loved to run but my feet kinda hurt, my knees kinda hurt, so I bought this beautiful bike. I had it cleaned and tuned, I got these spiffy clip shoes, a helmet, gloves, shorts with matching shirt…I was set. I rode from my garage up my driveway about 40 feet and fell because I couldn’t UNCLIP. My knee was bleeding, my elbow cut…my feelings hurt, my excitement crushed. I put my bike away.

I was later diagnosed with breast cancer, had surgery, radiation and am still on medication, but I’m a survivor. My medication and lack of excercise have added several extra pounds to my weight. I really can’t run much any more and my stamina is shot. Then I heard about SA Ride Like A Girl.

I emailed Veronica to put me on the mailing list. I want to ride, but not yet. She said OK, let me know when you’re ready. She kept sending the emails. Last November was my one year anniversary from my surgery and I was ready.

Guy has the patience of a saint. I’ll never forget our first ride. He showed me the brakes, the gears, how to check the air in the tires…I was a nervous wreck. I’m sure it was the slowest ride he’s ever ridden because he was waiting on me.

I’ve since finished the Mission 34 miler, the Fiesta Wildflower 40 miler. I love the wind blowing on my face. I could never run this fast!!! I can’t thank both of you enough for teaching me so much and I have so much to learn still, but I’m ready for TdC. I love meeting with our group and heading out to ride my bike. Thanks to you I can say…
Because I can ride!!!!

BRACKENRIDGE PARK BEGINNER RIDE 2009