Erick Studenicka/Special to the AppealAlta Alpina racers compete in a time trial last week.
I trust that there are more people out there to be part of a bicycle club that brings awareness and promotes cycling.
I wanted to write a few words about why I enjoy cycling and more so coaching and being an advocate. When I was young, I used to ride my bike across vast stretches of Las Vegas to friends' houses to go play and hang out.
It gave me a certain freedom to go where I wanted to go and when I wanted to go within reason.
I remember wanting to go to the Strip or the mall, etc., and with all the busy schedules in my somewhat large family, I had to take matters into my own hands.
It is this freedom to go places under my own power that keeps me riding. I really like to ride somewhere and back and revel in the accomplishment. I can see Kingsbury Grade from my house and after a quick shot up to the top and home, I can say to myself, "I was up there this morning."
Plus riding allows me to eat desserts and ribs and not end up enormous.
It is this freedom and sense of accomplishment that I choose to share with youth and most other riders that will listen to my advice (rants) about riding.
My wife is very generous and allows me to coach and ride a few times a week. I always felt that if I have some knowledge about how to ride better, stay hydrated, eat properly, train more effectively, I should share it.
It helps me justify some of the time I spend on the bike. It is my passion, my hobby, my exercise, my community outreach " all wrapped in one.
I tell my wife it is a good deal that I have all this in one, simple package but she doesn't buy it. I also really enjoy hanging out with other people, and young people are really funny and sometimes provide good perspective on things.
I would like to think I can be a positive role model for the kids that come and go on the team. I try to teach them safety, respect for adults and their peers, discipline, nutrition, tactics, skills and how to race if they choose to race.
Sometimes I think I underestimate the impact an adult can have on a younger person. When I coach and hang out with the youth, I treat them like I would an adult, with respect. I also expect them to treat others with respect.
I try to treat them as a person rather than the crazy adolescents they can be sometimes. I think this builds trust. This all came to light when a graduate of the team called up and wanted to share some tough things they were going through.
I was honored that they would come to me. I also felt a responsibility that I need to be present to help them through.
As I write this I am looking forward to this (racing) season. The time trial will tell no lies and will let everyone know who has been riding and who has not.
That is why it is the "Race of Truth."
It is just the rider and the clock, no tactics, no drafting, just see how fast each rider can ride.
- Mel Maalouf is a cycling columnist and the junior team coach for Alta Alpina Cycling Club.