Mike Across America

OK – I’m pumped! Today’s ride has put me over 5, 000 miles on the road for this year. I’ve ridden outside 89 days so far this year. So my average “day” is a little over 56 miles of riding.  Some days have been as many as 140 miles, some only 20 miles. I just know that I’m waaaaaaaay ahead of any prior year of riding miles by a long shot. And I have to say – I’m loving it! I love riding my bike – I look forward to getting out there (despite the wind) and I’m appreciating this simple activity more then ever. I’ve got some big goals for later this summer and I do feel like I’m doing the work to be as successful as I can be. I’m not a big risk taker. I like to have my bases covered.   I will not be able to use lack of preparation/training as an excuse if I don’t meet my goals. I’ve actually been cutting back a little on the riding to not “peak” too soon. I want to be at 100% when it counts later this summer. So whats the take home message today? Do your “homework”!! Be prepared!! I plan to be ready physically – psychologically – spiritually to go for it! So when you have a big task in front of you – do your “homework”!!

Of the 28 solo riders who started the 2009 RAAM 13 did not complete the distance. I cannot imagine the frustration/disappointment in not completing the goal that each of them had set. But each should be proud that they took the challenge on. How many people “think” about attempting such a huge goal? But  how many actually go for it? I want to be in the group that goes for it! You can’t always complete what you set out to do, but unless you try you’ll never know. Each of the RAAM 2009 finishers deserve our respect and admiration for what they accomplished. And each of the non-finishers deserve the same. Many will come back to attempt the event again and complete “un-finished business” but some will take the experience and be satisfied in the attempt. What goals have you set? Will you be satisfied with the results? Will you even start?