Day 1 of the Cycling Science (bike racing team) training camp.
Had an epiphany about 10 minutes into an hour 15 minute climb today. This was my first big ride back on the bike after the achilles tendon injury, and I was just not so much super motivated. in fact, i simply haven't had any desire whatsoever to ride the bike lately. would really rather just think about boarding. thought about hanging the bikes up for good.
Started this climb and it was just suck city. go at my own pace - just so out of shape - go slow - meet the rest of the team at the top. so it was sucking, but about 10 minutes into the climb a single thought popped into my mind, and it was 'go the distance'. cue orchestra swell. yes, i started having visions of Rocky running through Pilly, getting more and more fit. first he would end at the art museum with his hands on his knees, but then we would eventually get there and raise his hands in victory. i had to go through the same process. cheesy? yeah, maybe, but it was pretty powerful.
and i rediscovered what it is that makes me tick. you know, i really like a good challenge. i crave the struggle. if something comes too easy, then i'm not really all that interested. i need the challenge. i need to go the distance. and cycling provides that for sure. today, for me, just getting up the hill was a struggle. but as i get more fit the struggle doesn't really end, you just go up the hill a little faster. and then a little faster still. and...
it was just a really beautiful moment. one i'll remember for a long time.
