El Tour de Tucson is just around the corner, and I have to admit, when I signed up for the 32-mile ride, I knew I was taking on a big challenge for myself.
I wouldn’t call myself a cyclist in any way shape or form, and training for this race has definitely pushed me outside my comfort zone. I have to admit, it’s been challenging to find the days to ride, and I have questioned myself as to why I signed up for this, one too many times. But then I remember, I can’t give up, for myself and for my team, it just takes a lot of work and I have to put the energy, time and effort into preparing myself to ride 32 miles.
The challenge is part of the experience.
Training has reminded me that progress doesn’t always happen all at once. Sometimes it’s pushing through another mile when you’d rather call it a day and sometimes it’s just getting on the bike during your day off when you’d rather be relaxing after a long week.
Like I mentioned, I have found it difficult to ush myself to make time to ride, and find a road friendly bike, but when I do go out on the loop for a ride, it’s a reminder that I am reaching my goal every time I pedal. More importantly, it’s given me the opportunity to try something I haven’t done before, challenge myself and be part of something much bigger than a race, and I think that’s what makes El Tour de Tucson special.
Looking beyond the miles, the training and the finish line, El Tour brings people together for a great cause. Every year, riders take on different distances, each with their own reasons for participating. Some are experienced cyclists, others are trying something new, and many are riding to support the organizations and causes that mean something to them.
I’m riding in support of Pima Foundation, and every donation made through our El Tour fundraising efforts goes toward the Foundation’s areas of greatest need. That means contributions can help support the students, programs and priorities that make a difference across Pima Community College.
And you don’t have to ride any miles to be part of it, or run a 5k.
Several members of our community have signed up to participate in El Tour, and you can support them, too. Whether you make a donation to my ride or to another participant, every contribution helps Pima Foundation continue its work supporting Pima Community College students.
As race day gets closer, I’m looking forward to putting the training miles to the test. I know 32 miles won’t necessarily be easy as a new cyclist, but I’ve learned that sometimes the best experiences come from doing something that challenges you. Like what many students experience at the College, preparing themselves for the workforce.
So, here’s to trying something new, pushing past a few obstacles and remembering why we started in the first place.
I hope to see you at the finish line on Saturday, November 21!
Make sure to watch my progress on our social media accounts Facebook & Instagram
To support those fundraising, please click their names below.
