Spin Cycle

I have a big day on Saturday all planned out.  I'm riding with some friends in this year's Cycle For Survival.  This years' event will take place over 5 days, in 10 cities, with 27 rides, 2,750 bikes, and will include 13,000 participants.

The event is a fundraiser for rare types of cancer.  In 2012, they raised $8.3 million.  This year, they have raised over $12 million!  It's awesome to be able to participate in a fun event for a great cause.  I want to thank both of my generous sponsors for helping to contribute to this record-breaking fundraiser!

The only bummer to my participation is that my drive up to Westwood will take probably three times as long as my stint on the bike.  :-/  I may have to find another workout later in the day to make sure I stay on pace for Ironman California.

Last year's event

I really am not sure what to expect at the event.  When I was first asked to participate, I envisioned some sort of contest where people pedaled away in a quest to log the most miles or some other such team goal.  Turns out I was way off base.

Each team has a four hour block in which the riding shifts are broken up into half hour segments.  The whole thing is like a giant spin class/party--it really doesn't matter how far or how fast you go.  There is food, entertainment (for those not riding), and other festivities (yoga anyone?).

Captain Spandex

So I've never actually done a spin class before and I'm a little nervous.  What is the proper etiquette in a spin class?  I've only ever ridden on the trainer in my garage and the open roads (helmets required).  I really need to figure out what to wear.  I don't want to show up and be "That Guy".  (at right...)

You know, the guy who shows up with way too much attitude, way too much spandex, and takes himself way too seriously.  

I'm much more interested in being a good teammate, cheering on my teammates, getting a good workout, and having fun.  If I get a chance to do a cool class as well, I'm not going to complain.

I promise that I do some research to make sure that I'm appropriately attired for the fun and festivities.

I love this picture of Aunt Susan

One of the cool things about the event is that they encourage you to bring a photo and written tribute to a cancer survivor.  I am going to accept that challenge and will be bringing a picture of my Aunt Susan.  She survived breast cancer and a brain tumor before she finally succumbed at much too young of an age--leaving behind her husband and 7 young kids.

Susan took me in for four straight summers in law school and treated me like one of her own kids.  I still feel like her kids are more like brothers and sisters to me than cousins.  I still miss her and love her. 

Aunt Susan, I will think about you as I ride on Saturday!  :-)