So What's Next?
I've spent the last couple of weeks pondering. Thinking about ideas of where the road (or trail) may be leading me and what lies around the bend. Could it be more racing? Just riding around? Maybe it's a triathlon or even an adventure race? Does my heart yearn for the wide open, seemingly endless roads of ultra-cycling and brevets? Who knows?
Right now, I'm perfectly content on riding when I feel like it and letting the future opportunities present themselves like recent college graduates seeking their first real job. I'm in no hurry to make a decision and I'm picky as hell. Here's a nice race in ________ or what about this _______? Hmmpf, next?
I do think I'll be continuing with my singlespeed state of mind. I know singlespeeds are not for everyone, but I really, really enjoy riding mine. My life, like a lot of us, is generally busy, complicated, and mentally taxing. Riding a bike offers an escape from the daily grind. While riding provides my escape, singlespeeding is my catharsis. I do see singlespeeding becoming a greater focus in my cycling future.
What about you? Where are most of you heading? What does 2010 bring?
I can relate
I seem to recall going through a very similar thought process last year at about this time (actually last October following my crash). I was determined to ride how I feel, and not try to do anything beyond what seemed fun at the moment.
Oddly enough, the months that followed those thoughts yielded some of my greatest successes on a bike! I think the proper mindset for this sport is a very important thing for amateurs like me.
I hope something exciting and interesting develops for you.
AR
Give an Adventure Race a try. Team Trail Monster loves them. Bonk Hard has some great for all levels races. First step is to take a day and do one of the St Louis Orienteering club meets. Lots of fun learning to navigate.
I am going to take a shot at the Truman Lake AR in the 12 hour solo catagory. Check out www.bonkhardracing.com and www.offroadfixation.com.
TTM