Today I rode escort on my motorcycle for a 160 km (100 mile) bike ride. It was one of a number of rides that went out to raise money for the palliative care unit of a local hospital. Organized by the Healing Cycle Foundation the 160 km was the longest of the rides and left at 6:30 am, riders had to complete the ride within 8 hours.
Under a cloudy sky and cool temperatures the bikers departed, looking very much like Tour de France riders on their expensive bikes and colourful outfits and helmets. Our job was to provide a “presence” on the road front and rear and assist with traffic control at stop signs and red lights. There were five motorcycle escorts and we leap-frogged from intersection to intersection through a mainly rural area.
As the day went on the group spread out and I ended up with the lead pack of five. One rider was unofficial leader who continually provided encouragement to the others and would actually get alongside the weakest of the bunch and put his hand on his lower back to give him a shove as he didn’t want him falling behind. They were a great group of athletes who certainly enjoyed the sport and their camaraderie.
Before the event started the organizer introduced me to Elaine. She was riding the 160 km distance for the first time. Maybe in her early 30’s she appeared excited and a tad anxious as it is a long way to pedal. As the ride progressed she slipped back from the leaders and as the day went along the gap grew larger and larger. One of the escorts dropped back to say with her and provide encouragement. Every once in a while he would report their position and say “she is intent on finishing although she is really tired.” Well persevere she did, over an hour after the slowest of the other 160 km riders finished, Elaine crossed the finish line at 2:37 pm, 7 minutes over the ‘allowed’ 8 hour time limit.
It didn’t matter that she wasn’t official. Almost every rider, volunteer and spectator ran to the finish line when word came in she was close. As she neared the finish line people were clapping and when she crossed up went an overwhelming cheer for Elaine. Straddling her bike, fist pumping in the air and smile a yard wide everyone could sense her pride of finishing the gruelling distance. The crowd was equally elated and their warmth embraced Elaine for her achievement.
Elaine sought out George her ‘personal escort’ for a hug and a picture for him sticking with her and encouraging her along the route.
Today was a great example of determination and perseverance. A goal was set, the plan laid and the execution of the plan undertaken. It was an aggressive plan but it was achievable. Before the ride when I spoke to Elaine she said “I know I can do it”. You have to believe. She did, she came, she saw, she conquered. Great job Elaine!
Clayton Shold
Salesopedia
