Back to that solo mish: now that’s the sort of thing that turns my crank. Why? Because its me and the course and it’s as simple as that. It’s pure. The only external influence on my actions is the wind, sun, trail. To me, this is the essence of athleticism – or dare I say the human experience.

-Dr. Hairball this AM.

Recalls a quotation Adam used a while ago about life being a metaphor for the race.

I’ve had similar thoughts since I discovered that their was a side of athleticism I didn’t hate. That would be through track (sorta), mountain biking, and climbing, all in 8th grade. Given the increased traffic in curiakstyle bike racing, I think we’re not alone. There’s an ambivalent competitive aspect of even the smallest mass start event. Good for some, bad for others.

The next step? Established routes and time trials for public and private record. Like speed records in climbing, but even more nebulous to establish. Mountains have summit photos, these bike rides will have only integrity and trust. Something that only gets more complicated the more people get involved.

We’re getting into the golden age of this stuff right now. Enjoy. Like Robbins in the Valley in ’62.