Most of my life i have been at the front of the pack in everything i do. what a radically different experience to be at the end of the pack… perhaps the 20th rider to the end. pulling into the VA center in LA i screamed with joy like i never have before… high fives to riders as i passed them and they congratulated me… tears of joy, relief, pride… pain… release… so much emotion.
i did not think i could do it. that’s a rare experience for me. so glad to have done what i did and gotten where i did.
i sat under a tree and cried for a while… glad to be done. too wiped out to deal with closing ceremonies, i simply wanted to be in Atreyu’s arms. we finally connected… a beautiful reunion. so grateful to have him in my life and by my side.
slipping away as the riders went into closing ceremonies, i found myself grateful to leave when i did.
pretty much the only place on my body not sore were my ears and elbows. my face was wind chapped and sunburned. my eyes burning — from the sun, the sunblock, the crying. my legs, ass, arms, back, and stomach muscles worn out and used. my crotch and ass chaffed beyond belief.
and, i’d do it again.
Isa,
I am so very proud of you. You really found what ALC is truly about. This year brought me back to what I love about the event. Last year was horrible for me and I completely lost the spirit, decided not to ride and moved to Sweep. Speaking of which, 6 days out of 7 we were with the caboose so I am wondering how much I saw you and had no idea. We were in the Luau sweep – the van with the grass skirt. I probably have photos of you. And your story about standing on the side of the road cheering people on – that is the same experience I had as a Sweep and why I will NEVER go back to riding. It’s so much more fulfilling to help people. If you want to hear about my most spectacular ALC moments let me know and I will forward them on.
If you decide to ride again I will work with you on training. I was a ride leader 3 out of the past 5 years and will probably go back to it this year. My first ride I did with a herniated disc so I know how tough it can be.
Again – I am so incredibly proud of you and happy for you. I’m so glad that you made this event your own and found so many treasures amidst all the pain and struggle that is ALC. YOU ROCK!
And in closing, I had a fabulous time tonight spinning poi and tomorrow I’m buying socks and hackey sacks. I’m going to keep my eyes open for the next beginning session – can’t wait to really learn how to spin. Thank you so much for the light you bring.
Shelly
Isa,
You rock! and you got it! Yes, the true meaning of the ride. Honestly, raising money is the easy part, the reality of it is the emotional and physical partnership that spurs out of your body and into the air down the state of California. I am so proud of you. Allow that inner athlete to shine and use more butt goop.
much love and spinning smiles, terri pc (all the way from Ghana)