As the fresh canvas of 2011 unfolds before us, I find myself nestled in the warmth of my apartment, reflecting on the whirlwind that was 2010 – a year that swerved and veered in ways I never could have predicted.
The year kicked off true to my resolution: to immerse myself more in the world of racing, not just for the thrill of competition, but for the joy of camping, exploring, and bonding with friends. My adventures began splendidly with a triumphant weekend at Devils Slide alongside Ross, Nancy, and Emily Brown, where I clinched victory. This high was followed by the eventful Barking Spider Bash in Idaho, marked by a mix of mishaps and memorable climbs, especially the White Bird Grade.
As I pedaled through the frost-kissed South Hills towards Miller Creek Valley today, my thoughts meandered through the highlights of 2010. The Grizzlyman Adventure Race was a standout, not just for the win, but for the new friendships forged. However, as is often the case, my year took unexpected turns. The victories at the 24 hours of Round and Round in Spokane and other races were intoxicating, shifting my focus sharply back to racing.
The 24 hours of Rapelje brought a peculiar twist. What was meant to be a performance for my parents turned into a solitary challenge as they couldn’t make it. Despite the setbacks, including the forgotten headlamps, friends stepped in, and I pushed through.
But it was the Butte 100 that reshaped my perspective. The race was a letdown performance-wise, but witnessing Zephanie and Ross’s success was surprisingly fulfilling. This realization marked a shift in my year; I began to value the joy in others’ achievements as much as my own.
2010 wasn’t just about racing. It was also about connections. Jill’s arrival in Missoula and her journey with Adventure Cycling added new layers to my social landscape. Meeting Jill Homer, whose blog I had followed religiously, felt like encountering a kindred spirit.
The year ended with a whirl of events – personal, professional, and emotional. The 25 Hours of Frog Hollow was a highlight, where a sunrise reminded me of the beauty beyond the race. Life, I realized, was unpredictable and precious.
Now, as I sit here thawing from today’s chilly ride, I see 2010 in a new light. It was a year of emotional growth and learning, of facing and embracing pain in all its forms. As Jill once said about the biting cold, “I feel alive.” And that’s exactly how 2010 made me feel.
So here’s to 2011 – another year of adventures, lessons, and, undoubtedly, more bike rides. See you on the trails!
Boneshakerbike 
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