2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 1

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 1

ByMike Byrd

Chester and I left the Cool Breeze Cyclery at 3PM and headed to Augusta for the 2012 Paralympic Road Nationals.  We made it to Augusta in 3 hours and checked into the Sheraton.

Chester asked me a couple months ago to pilot his tandem at Nationals but I don’t think I really understood how big a deal it is.  It started to sink in when we rolled through the hotel parking lot and there was a line of about 100 cyclists with their time trial bikes.  They were in line to get their bikes inspected by USA Cycling!

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 2

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 2

ByMike Byrd

Today (6/21/12) was Day 2 of our trip to the 2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships.  Today’s event was the Time Trial National Championship.

Chester and I didn’t start until 3:15 so we were able to sleep in – until about 7:15…which was late for me.  We got up and had breakfast, ran an errand and then came back to the hotel room.  Our plan was to stay cool, get hydrated and then to get to the venue around 1pm to get our race numbers, check out the start and warm up.

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 3 (6/22/12)

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 3 (6/22/12)

ByMike Byrd

Today was a rest day for Chester and I at the 2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships. Today were the Criterium Championships and unfortunately (or fortunately) they don’t have a crit class for tandems.  

We slept late and headed down to the races to see the Paralympians that were able to do the Crit race.  It was inspirational to see them racing.  Watching them race definitely puts things in perspective.  They don’t see it that way and race as hard as any able bodied athlete, maybe even harder, but for me it definitely makes me realize that I shouldn’t be ‘sweating the small stuff’.  I hope that makes sense.

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 4

2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships – Day 4

ByMike Byrd

Saturday (6/25/12) was Day 4 for Chester and I at the 2012 Elite, U23, Juniors & Paralympic Road National Championships. Today’s race was the 72K Road Race which was divided up into 3 laps.
Our race was at 8 and held on the Fort Gordon Military Base. Since our race started at 8, we had an early wake up call. Chester woke up at 4:30 excited to get going. I rolled out of bed around 5:15 and started getting ready. We managed to roll out to the truck around 6:30 and were at the race venue at 7.

First Runs at Snowshoe Ski Resort in 2023

First Runs at Snowshoe Ski Resort in 2023

ByMike Byrd

Kim and I finally made it to Snowshoe for the first time in 2023. Snowshoe has been extremely unlucky this season and has basically had zero snowfall. The Snowshoe snow making team has done a great job and are fighting unfavorably warm weather and rain. It seems they get a good week only to be followed up by more warm weather and rain. Hope you enjoy a little fun from Snowshoe.

Tucson’s Top Coffee Destinations: A Tour of 7 Cafés
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Tucson’s Top Coffee Destinations: A Tour of 7 Cafés

ByMike Byrd

Rooted in a rich tapestry of Native American, Mexican, and European heritage, Tucson, Arizona shines not just with its historical significance, but also with its burgeoning coffee scene. Established in 1775, today’s Tucson is a dynamic blend of the old and the new, its coffee shops serving as an aromatic testament to this fusion. Let’s embark on a journey to the seven standout coffee houses in Tucson, each exuding a unique flavor and ambiance.

Discover the Top 7 Coffee Stops in Grand Canyon Village, Arizona
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Discover the Top 7 Coffee Stops in Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

ByMike Byrd

Situated on the doorstep of the renowned Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, is more than just a gateway to natural wonder. Established in the early 1900s, it has since evolved into a sought-after tourist hub, catering to the varied needs of its many visitors with accommodations, eateries, and delightful attractions. Amidst its many offerings, the village presents a collection of delightful coffee spots, perfect to kickstart your adventures or to rest your feet after a day in the park. Let’s dive into the crème de la crème of coffee establishments in Grand Canyon Village.

The American Flag and Its Symbolism

The American Flag and Its Symbolism

ByMike Byrd

Being interested in our history and a proud American, I’ve always been fascinated by the American flag and its symbolism. Our flag, affectionately known as the Stars and Stripes or Old Glory, represents not just the physical boundaries of our country but also our shared values, history, and aspirations. When I see the flag waving in the breeze, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to our nation’s past and a sense of pride in what we have achieved together.

The Role of Patriotism in American Politics

The Role of Patriotism in American Politics

ByMike Byrd

I have always been fascinated by the concept of patriotism and its impact on a nation’s politics and society. Patriotism, the love and devotion to one’s country, has played a significant role in shaping American history and defining its national character. From the earliest days of the American Revolution to today, patriotism has been an essential component of American political life and has influenced how Americans perceive themselves and their country.