Hello, dear readers! It’s late October, which means summer is finally OVER here in Phoenix, AZ. Mornings are actually pleasant and, dare I say, a wee bit chilly, which is such a welcome change from the months of heat, humidity, and general crankiness (I’m not referring to myself at all…). I’ve been enjoying the option of riding later in the morning or — gasp! — late afternoon.
One recent highlight I wanted to share was a spontaneous girls’ weekend in Sedona last month. A few friends and I decided to check out some new-to-us mountain bike trails and visit a couple of mountain bike coach friends in Sedona. Not much to say, other than a great time was had by all. Gorgeous scenery, silly photos, and awesome friends = wonderful time.
At the end of last year, I wrote a list of mountain bike goals for 2022. I realized today that I’ve achieved most of them! Here is my list:
- Ride 2,000 miles this year.
- Complete the Whiskey 30 race in one piece. (DONE! For proof, check out this blog.)
- Learn how to jump intentionally, not accidentally. (I’ve taken a jump clinic and have actually jumped intentionally during rides!)
- Go to a bike park for the first time. (DONE! Went to Angelfire in July. For proof, check out this blog and that blog.)
- Continue working on my list of technical features. (This will always be a work in progress, but notable achievements include clearing 3 rocky sections on the lower National trail at South Mountain.)
- Build endurance to ride my first dirt half century, i.e., 50 miles. (Still working on this one.)
- Continue the skills practice by taking clinics and practicing specific skills on my own. (Still working on this.)
- Continue to meet and encourage beginner riders to ride. (DONE! I just started my weekly ladies’ mountain bike ride again!)
Not too shabby! Still have time to knock off a couple more items….
reluctantroadie 