Community

I toured Florida’s Space Coast in early spring on Bike Florida’s supported weeklong tour. Like Ohio’s GOBA, this ride is a moving community of cyclists where people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities return to renew friendships and make new friends.

Flavor

I returned to the North Carolina Coastal Tour in late April. Mom and pop diners and dives are on my radar on a bike tour. This is where you get the real taste of the people, places, and experiences of the region.

Celebrate

In May My cycling pal Greg and I celebrated my birthday on an Ohio to Erie Trail tour from Cincinnati to my home. Memories made on a bicycle remain long after the candles on the cake are blown out.

Fun

In May I cycled the Columbus Beer Week bike the breweries tour with friends. My bike was a big part of me having fun as a kid. This tour reminded me that you are never too old to rediscover the neighborhood on a bike.

Challenges

In June I wandered through the Czech Republic, southern Bohemia, and Austria with many challenging climbs. I learned that life throws you challenges to stretch your self-imposed boundaries to make you a better person.

Traditions

In July I returned to the Greene Trails Cycling Classic for the sixth time. This has become one of my cycling traditions where the people, places, trails, and friendships keep me coming back. It’s good to maintain traditions as well as discover new places.

Friends

My home became a campground for the second year when I hosted a weekend of cycling in the heart of Ohio for my bike pals. Sometimes a tour can be close to home, in a familiar place, and allowing others to discover your neighborhood.

Care

In September I cycled Ohio to Erie Trail from Cincinnati to Cleveland for the second time. I live by the principle of no cyclist left behind. I surround myself with like-minded cyclists who care and support their fellow bike tourists. I have enjoyed the benefits of this principle on both ends.

Kindness

In October, I cycled the C&O Canal Trail and Great Allegheny Passage from D.C. to Pittsburgh for the fourth time. I experienced great kindness on this self-supported solo tour. People are generally good. You just have to allow them into your life to share that kindness.

Teamwork

In late October to cycled the Florida Keys with my pal, Greg. I learned a lot from him as a touring partner. When you are unsupported and cycling together, teamwork is a must. I grew from Greg’s touring knowledge and spirit of independence to make me a more confident bike tourist.