The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay healthy, fit, and active. For some, it’s more than just a hobby or a way to stay in shape. It’s a passion, a way of life, and a means to compete at the highest level. And for those who compete in the Special Olympics, it's a way to showcase their skills and abilities. The Special Olympics is a global organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics has become the world's largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities. It provides a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level, promoting a more inclusive and accepting world. As a parent of a Special Olympics athlete, I know firsthand the importance of this organization and the impact it has on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics offers a safe and s

  Endurance Cycling for Seniors: Navigating the Challenges of a 24-Hour Bicycle Ride I have rode in the 24 Hour in the Canyon event a few times in the past decade. Riding a bicycle for 24 hours is grueling. The ride starts on a Saturday at noon and ends at noon on Sunday. I always did best the first 8 or 9 hours, which is completely expected. The next many hours are when we would plunge into darkness in the canyon and the temperature would fall from the upper 90's down into the 50's. Believe me, that takes it toll on you quickly.  I loved riding as the sun comes up. You know there are just a few hours left and you start to feel the warmth on your face. It kind of gives you a bit of an adrenaline rush. That last few hours were just painful. You are either close to 200 miles into the 24 hour ride or more. My best was 234 miles but I can't seem to get close to that many miles now. A 24-hour bicycle ride is a challenging feat for any cyclist, but it can be particularly demandin

RAGBRAI (The Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) is a beloved cycling event that draws thousands of participants from all over the world. It is a seven-day ride that takes cyclists across the state of Iowa, from the Missouri River to the Mississippi River. Along the way, riders pass through small towns and rural areas, experiencing the unique culture and hospitality of Iowa. This year's ride is July 22-29 and the route is on the photo you see here. Each year, the number of participants in RAGBRAI varies, with estimates ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 cyclists. The ride is fully supported, with luggage transport, bike mechanics, and medical staff available throughout the week. This allows riders to focus on the adventure and camaraderie of the ride, rather than logistical details. One of the questions that many people have about RAGBRAI is where participants sleep. The overnight towns along the route provide camping facilities, which include showers and restrooms. Pa

The Hotter'N Hell Hundred is a cycling event that I am intimately familiar with, having ridden it a number of times. This challenging race, held annually in Wichita Falls, Texas, attracts thousands of cyclists from all over the world who are ready to take on its demanding course and extreme weather conditions. I have personally ridden the century route of the Hotter'N Hell Hundred, which spans 100 miles through the flatlands of North Texas with occasional hills and sharp turns. One year, I rode the race when the temperature soared over 110 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the hottest years on record. Despite being in peak physical condition and well-prepared for the heat, I began cramping at mile 75. Fortunately, the Hotter'N Hell Hundred is known for its exceptional support for riders. There are numerous rest stops along the route that provide food, drinks, and medical attention if needed. As I began to experience cramping, I made my way to one of the many medical tent