First Ride of 2012

With the new year brings a renewed effort to try and set things right. To continue losing the pounds, to ride further and faster, or to try and hang with the group ride a little further than last year. Or maybe you (like me) just needed to get a ride under your belt in order to get started again. Today was my get started again ride.

I knew yesterday that I would ride today. No matter what. It was going to be cold and windy. But I had to ride. No matter what.

There was no plan today besides just riding. Dress warm, throw the leg over my trusty steed and ride. Knee and arm warmers, thermal skull cap, full-fingered gloves, toe covers and a vest did the trick. It kept me warm but the wind stunk. I already knew it would so it wasn’t too surprising to feel it pushing against me. I would not be deterred today.

The streets were quiet and the sun was low on the horizon. A few runners here and there and a couple cycling were the only other folks out braving the cold and wind. There was the guy walking his little ankle-biter dog that had a cute little dog sweater on. I didn’t ask him but I’m sure it was his wife’s (or girlfriend’s) dog. That’s what I would have said.

About an hour later the ride came to a close. It meant the 2012 riding season had started.

Mildstallion

W00t! I don’t get to ride outside until April.

It’s great that you got back on the bike. Welcome back, brother.

Anonymous

Thanks Al. I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t ride outside until April. I guess break down and buy a trainer.

Jaxgtr01

Man, it was cold and the 25 mph winds did not help, but I took my son to the football game and it was down right frigid. However I did ride on the 31st when it was a balmy 70 and only 15 mph winds. Congrats on getting out there man.

Anonymous

Thanks. I rode around 8 am so the wind wasn’t that bad yet but it was getting there.

Dtcklaw

Way to go. I can’t wait to get get back from deployment and start riding.

Anonymous

Thanks.

What branch of the military are you in and when do you get back?

Dtcklaw

Alabama National Guard. Can’t give a return date (OPSEC) But not soon enough. Put some miles in for me. Just remember quality rides. And ensure you rest properly. That has helped me the most.

Anonymous

Be safe. I served in the Navy for 16 years. My brother-in-law is in Afghanistan and returns home to retire in 3 months. I appreciate everything you’re doing and if you need anything let me know.

Dtcklaw

I did 11 in the Corps, 12 so far in the Guard. I’m a helicopter technician back home. So the job is tied to me staying in. Ever rode the Siliver Comet or Chief Ladiga Trial in Alabama and GA? It is a converted track. Liedega starts in Anniston, when you hit the Ga. line it is the Siliver Comet. Really nice. No motorized traffic. The most distance I did there was 96.8 miles. Only about 3% grade, most of the way. Check it out.
I will have to start over when I get home, but the pain is good when you are doing something you really enjoy. Later.