What a difference a year makes!! I'm sure I probably probably said this to any of you before because every time I do anything with these kids they blow me away as to the improvement they have made from last year. Now, granted, I'm not in the best of shape yet, but we have started our regular Tuesday night training rides and the kids are KILLING me. Whereas last year I was able to hang with all of the kids on all of the hills, this year I have to pick my battles. They just ride away from me like I'm 40 or something. Oh wait, I am. Well anyway, they are making me feel MUCH OLDER than 40. Even my own son is riding away from me regularly.
This marked improvement isn't in just the oldest of our members, but extends all the way down to the youngest of our team. With weekly rides built just for them, our little 10 year old girls and boys are on the road gaining experience and confidence they need heading into sitting on a start line with kids that are much bigger than themselves. Cross last year has hardened them up and they KNOW they can do it!
In addition to all of this improvement, we have been adding a lot of kids who are really showing they are dedicated to getting out there, racing and representing Red Zone Cycling. To witness not only the improvement of kids you have been working with for almost 2 years, but to see the excitement of the new kids out there, it is beyond explanation.
We are growing leaps and bounds and show no sign of slowing down. I wish there were 24 more hours in every day so that I could feel like I am able to talk to every kid at least once a week, or their parents or tell them all how proud I am of them. But their aren't 24 more hours in every day, so I have to hope that they know how special they all are to me.
So, so, so many growing pains and little successes here and there. The best news of the week is that all 5 of our 15-16 year olds that have the chance to go to USAC Development Camp this summer were found to be eligible. They are headed to Sewanee, TN to work with representatives of USA Cycling on Skills and Testing. I have no doubt that we have the talent on our team to have some representatives at the Colorado Springs National I.D. Camp within the next couple of years. Mark my words.
The McDonald's Spring Training Series has been going VERY well so far and our kids have been at the top of the podium more than I can say. May is going to be EXTREMELY busy as we travel to Iowa, Illinois, Nashville and McMinnville - as well as local races here in Kentucky. Keep your ear out for us and keep checking back here for updates on what we learn along the way.