TDBank Five Boro Bike Tour - The Story

So a year ago I said it was a New Year's resolution for me and Erik to keep up with this blog. Well, we both failed.

But now I have a new reason to keep it up - I recently signed up for the TDBank Five Boro Bike Tour in NYC as a member of Team of ASPCA. I'm a relatively new member to the "cycling" world (in quotes because I am an imposter). I've done the Dempsey Challenge in Lewiston-Auburn the past two years, and in that time have grown a lot (started at 10 miles, moved on to 25 miles - a big deal for me). While cancer will always be close to my heart (Nonna, John, Gail), I am ready to move on to another cause.

As many of you know, over the past year I've been very active with my local humane society. I love it.  While I adore the museum world, volunteering at the shelter has helped me keep my sanity and has shown me how much I really care for animals.  The ASPCA is the oldest humane society in this country. And it just so happens that this year, they decided to create their own team for the various athletic events in this country.

I have my friend Curtis to thank for my joining this event. Growing up, my dad and I would go to NYC but all we would see was the touristy part - Times Square, the tourist trap of America. I assumed that was all NYC had to offer. I went back just after 9-11 and then really spent some time there about a year and a half ago. I have fallen in love with the city. There is so much more than the tourist trap aspect. In fact, there are parts that remind me of Maine and New England given the affinity for good beer and the neigborhood atmosphere.

And in my visits there, I have been dying to bike it. There is no better time than to do it with 32,000 of your closest friends on a closed course - awesome.

My goals for this blog? To highlight my history with animals, to show why the ASPCA is an important charity to donate to, and to document my apprehension. Forty-two miles is a lot for me. Yes, it's relatively flat given the Dempsey, but it's still asking a lot from me. Since the Dempsey, I have upgraded bikes. But, I still refuse to do clips (I don't want to hear it Kate and Kendra!) and I'm still against spandex. I am just a "person who likes to ride a bike" (NOT a cyclist).

Stay tuned for more!