I'd Like to Thank...

I've tried to write this blog in a lot of different ways, and it kept getting too complicated and drawn out. So I've decided to try this angle. The angle of an acceptance speech.

The award?

A job at Specialized Bicycle Components.

The reason for the format?

Well, because Greensboro, and more accurately the people in Greensboro, have given me so so much. And I want to take a moment to thank them all properly for what they've given me in my life.

First off, Dale Brown, owner of Cycles de Oro. Dale took a chance on me, a big chance, at a time where I needed a bit of luck most of all. I had just lost my funding for Grad School and didn't know where to turn or what I was going to do for a full time job. Dale took someone who knew little about bikes, but had a large desire to learn, and put her to the test. He also gave me the opportunity to make a real impact in the cycling community of Greensboro. He helped me assemble my bikes (my many bikes...) and didn't bat an eye when I exchanged one for yet another. I was able to go to Interbike and get a taste of how awesome the cycling industry was. I was able to go to the NAHBS and see learn about amazing craftsmanship. And ultimately, it was Dale who helped me take the next step in my career with nothing but support and enthusiasm. I will never be able to fully repay him, and will always remember my time at De Oro as some of the happiest moments of my life.

Second off, Watts Dixon, owner of Revolution Cycles. Watts sold me my first bike, Vincent, who I loved dearly and who put up with all of my mistakes, crashes, and general incompetence. Watts helped me to find the right bike, and got me started on the right path. I'll never forget his easy going style and his patience at my many vacillations.

Third off, my coach, Ashley Powell. For the first time in my life, I consider myself a real athlete. Ashley took me from yet ANOTHER injury born from stupidity to more than a year completely injury free. He never pressured me to race, but somehow I think he knew that I would want to give it a shot. And even though my results are...how to say....less than impressive, he never fails to put things in perspective, find and praise the positives, and constructively plan how to improve on the negatives. He never hesitates to join in a group ride, and welcomes questions day or night. I'm the strongest I've ever been in my life, in any context. I consider myself amazingly lucky to have him as my coach, and am super excited to continue to work with him from three time zones over.

Fourth off, I want to thank all of the staff I've been privileged to work with at Cycles de Oro. Ben, Kyle, Steve, Charles, Zack I, Zach M, Louis, Robert, Jeremy, Jessica, Sarah, and Eric. PHEW! A lot of names, but a lot of fantastic people who were patient with my stupid questions, taught me the important differences between a rear gorilla and a hang down, explained the finer intricacies of Shimoomoo, and generally put up with me. I always went into work looking forward to my day, and always knew that there was some sort of adventure waiting for me.

Fifth off, I have to thank all of the amazing people I've met and ridden with in Greensboro. I won't be able to mention them all, but you know who you are. If it hadn't been for your support, your patience, your encouragement, and your shared love of bikes and what they can do, I never would have fallen in love with the sport as completely as I have. You have shaped the cyclist I am, and have set a high high standard for me to live up to on the West Coast.

And the West Coast is where I am now headed. For a third time, this blog will have to change its name. No longer will I be Riding in GSO; I'll be Riding in..MH? SJ? Central Cali? I've yet to figure that part out. But regardless, it will be a long ways away from my cycling roots.

I'll never forget Greensboro. I'll try to come back and visit (and ride!) as much as I possibly can. I will, of course, continue to blog.

I am excited, though. Excited to ride new roads, maybe FINALLY get that mountain bike, meet new friends and get dropped by new crushers I have no business trying to ride with (which will probably happen on my first day at work).

Goodbye, Greensboro.

Hello....