Let’s face it bike racing is a pretty selfish thing. We do it because we love the feeling of going fast, pushing our limits, the comradery and competition, the sense of accomplishment. All good things, but it is just about satisfying ourselves. It is tough when we become so focused on our goals, driving so hard in what is often a short, fast paced season, to take a step back and give some energy to others.

This past weekend I got to support Team Griggs Orthopedics, my team of awesome folks, at the Leadville 100 bike race. I really wanted to race on that Saturday, so did Sam, but it just wasn’t in the cards. Instead we gave 100% getting everyone in and out of the aid station as quickly as possible while trying to satisfy their needs. It was such a blast, I ran, sprinted, pushed and screamed encouragement. I think we did a good job and the team was riding awesome!

After packing up and driving to town, we parked at the rented team house right on the course. It was still early in the day and riders continued to roll past, even some of our own. I just hadn’t had enough of helping out. I began to run behind the riders, yelling encouragement, giving them a hardy push as they ground up the last climb of the day. I just couldn’t stop, I was sore from running too hard all day, but the determination and drive that everyone was burning with kept me going. I must have pushed a couple hundred riders on that hill, it felt so good, many were so excited to get a tiny boost, a touch of reprieve, some one there who cared. Right now, I can barely walk, but it was worth it and would do it all over again. Feels so damn good to give a little back.