As some of you know, I (Todd) rode in the Valley First Gran Fondo Axel Merckx Okanagan this past weekend. I did the 92km Mediofondo ride at an average speed of 25.2 km/hr, and finished about 20 minutes faster than the fastest rider doing to full 160km Gran Fondo (Svein Tuft, professional bike racer from Vancouver) who averaged 40.5 km/hr. Always good to know there is room for improvement! It was a great event, I felt good most of the way and had a really great time. I'm feeling pretty good except for some stiffness in my neck and upper back. Perhaps next year the full Gran Fondo distance and hopefully I find someone to train and ride with...
I don't really like writing about myself, so that part is done. I also already regret posting photos of me in lycra cycling gear. What I really want to say is thanks to Kirsten and the boys for all their support when I spent Saturday and/or Sunday mornings out by myself riding around the South Okanagan. We did manage to coordinate some activities around the training, but still, a lot of family time was missed and I appreciate the sacrifice they made and support and encouragement they provided.
On the day of the event, K and the boys along with our great friends the Herbaxcy's (Jim, Katherine, Flynn, Aven and Rowan, visiting from Edmonton) came out to cheer me on when I passed near our house at the half-way mark of the ride. It was great to see them all and hear the cheers.
Enjoy the photos.
Todd
Waiting to cheer for dad to come down the road.
Here he comes, all encased in lycra like an almost-40-yr-old sausage!
Stopping for a quick visit.
Post-ride encouragement!
