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Sign me up!
This week could be best described as decision time. On two fronts.
First, I received an email informing me it was time to renew my membership with the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM). And, secondly, I had to determine whether I was going to compete in this year's Maine Senior Games. As it happened, I began the new "workweek" with a much-needed massage, so I was fully relaxed — both physically and mentally. Therefore, I was in a good frame of mind to sort through this pair of cycling-related details.
Truth be told, I was a little reluctant to fork over more money to the Portland-based coalition. While there have been concerns expressed by some who believe — obviously, from the outside looking in — that the BCM appears to be top-heavy staffing wise, and thus directing a lot of dollars toward those on the payroll, there is an issue of far greater importance. Generally speaking, BCM does a decent job of promoting safety for both cyclists and pedestrians. However, in my opinion, enough still isn't being done to reach that small percentage of motorists who aren't willing to share the road. Or at least give that impression, as they whiz by with barely any space between you and them.
Believe me, it continues to happen way too often.
In the end, I did make a donation to keep my BCM enrollment. Despite any misgivings, it's the best option for advocating for better cooperation by everyone. With more free time on my hands, I'm thinking of becoming more involved — possibly offering to volunteer at the Bicycle Coalition of Maine.
The Games ...
As many of you might remember, I was fortunate enough to capture the gold medal for my age group (70-to-74) in the 20-kilometer (12.4 miles) road race at last year's Maine Senior Games. Being my first time, it was rather nerve-racking to say the least, but both exciting and fun. So, was I up for defending my first-place finish at the 2023 cycling event?
The venue is the same as in 2022, in Brunswick, on the former naval air station. It is scheduled for September 17. A quick check of my social calendar revealed — not surprisingly — that I had nothing going on. Therefore, I've registered to take part in the competition for a second time.
I plan on using my 2023 Trek Domane road machine. It looks really nice with its Deep Smoke color; I just hope it's fast. I also hope those two dudes who rode my tail lap after lap in last year's race show up again. I will show no mercy this time around — at least that is my desire. Stay safe!
(Editor's note: I'm taking a short blog break; be back on Friday, September 1. As always, thank you for the opportunity to share with you my passion for riding a bicycle.)
