Behind The Rider
As "participants", we often look at ourselves, and others as the ones making the sacrifices, putting out the effort to be part of something, create something, change something, or in general, MAKE A DIFFERENCE in something.
I would like to introduce my wife Lisa.
Lisa has been the behind the scenes participant in each and every year of my Great Cycle Challenge involvement. She has encouraged me, ridden with me, and put up with my whining about weather, or waking up with leg cramps in the night. She has made sure I keep on track.
Not only support for the riding, she has been at my side through my own battles with cancer. As I am sure you have read the "My Story" section above, Lisa has been at my side through more than any wife should ever have to. From simple bloodwork, to 20 hour reconstructive surgeries that almost went completely sideways, she was always there for me to wake up to. Bewteen Lisa, and the rest of our family, and close friends, I am certainly not the lone "participant" in these yearly endeavours. Whether a collection of local rides combined to reach my goal, or that EPIC ride through the Canadian Rockies to Vancouver, Lisa leads the pack with her continued support. (and patience)
So next time you're looking to thank one of the riders, please keep their loved ones, and their entire support teams in mind, without them we simply couldn't do any of this.
Thank You Lisa.
Thank you family.
Thank You friends!
