I had heard this nickname “Michigan Gary” and didn’t know who Gary was, but I could easily guess that he was from Michigan. I showed up one Sunday several months ago for the “fixie” ride, thinking there was no way I could ride with these guys, but willing to give it a try. I think that day there were about 6 or 8 of us, including Matt D’Elia, Dan LaVoie, Dean Lee, Michigan Gary, and his friend Terry (also from Michigan). They were wearing their matching team jerseys. We took off and I was thinking I’d get dropped right away.
What was a recovery ride for the guys was a good workout for me. Before we went up Blooming Fern, Gary and I were riding together along Simpson Road. As we approached the stop sign, I asked if it was okay if we stopped at the Golf Course for a minute. Gary said “sure, no problem”. We got to the stop sign and Gary announced that we were stopping because I was being “a pain in the ass”. I knew he was just giving me a hard time. I had a great ride that day, and was glad the guys waited for me on the hills, and I was also glad I kept up with them most of the way. We were able to enjoy our post-ride coffee outdoors in the sun that day at Longbottom’s, something we probably won’t be doing for quite a while. It was one of those memorable days for me – a great ride, and great post-ride conversation with great people.
To me, Gary epitomizes the type of quality people we have in this club. He’s willing to help out people new to cycling by sharing his experiences and giving encouragement. That’s what is so important to newcomers – it breaks the ice and is great for eliminating the intimidation factor. It’s also great after a ride to enjoy a meal and cup of coffee at Longbottom’s and discuss the latest pro race, cool bike or gear. His passion for the sport is evident and his enthusiasm is infectious. If you get a chance, show up on Sunday mornings at Longbottom’s – you won’t regret it. Here are the questions I asked Gary so we could all get to know more about him, and his passion for cycling.
~Linda, November 2008
How did you find Portland Velo, and what has your experience been with the club the past few years?
My wife and I moved here from Michigan 4 years ago come this January 11th. I looked into local cycling clubs and found the Portland Wheelman club organizing rides on the west side near where I live. Well, I rode with them for about a year when some of the guys that I rode with on a regular basis started talking about starting a new club. Well, that’s what happened and here we are today. Needless to say, Portland Velo cycling club is very successful, not only as a club but as a racing team. The club is well managed. We have a first-rate web page. The membership is full of wonderful people. But a club is only as successful as its volunteers. We always need members to step up and volunteer their services whenever they can and however they can.
How long have you been riding? How many miles do you think you've ridden in your lifetime?
I come mainly from a running background, although I’ve experienced and competed at a number of sports” inline speedskating, sculling, snowshoe racing, cross country skiing – but it wasn’t until I got into mountain bike racing that I really fell in love with cycling. Of course, mountain biking and the associated community is a world of difference from the road racing crowd. I only did a handful of road races. I guess maybe the last 10 years is when I have been really serious with cycling. My lifetime mileage I would not begin to guess. However, I can say that since 2004 through 2007, I have 48,845 logged miles.
What is your favorite type of weather to ride in? Describe the perfect ride.
I would say that last week (Wednesday, Thursday & Friday) were the perfect cycling days – just absolutely perfect! We went up on Skyline and you could see forever. The colors were perfect – it was great! I like the fall and some days in the winter when the air is crisp and clear and the sun is bright and Mt. Hood is full of snow, it looks as though you could reach out and touch it. I like the temperature cold enough that you work harder so as to stay warm and you’re just flying. I like a fitness level that allows me days where you’re just flying, but it feels effortless. Your body recovers quickly, and you have no pain. That’s what you strive for when you’re racing and competing. Even though I don’t race any more, I still compete and I still strive for that. When you have that feeling, it is the perfect ride.
How many bikes do you have? Which one is your favorite, and why?
I have four bikes. I had five, but I sold my mountain bike in the first year out here. My last ride on it was the mountain bike stage of the Pedal the Pinchot up Mt. St. Helens. I could not believe what I was doing! In Michigan, we don’t have rides like that. It was very difficult, but I just loved it. After that I made a decision to stay on the roads. I didn’t want to pack up and travel to go mountain biking. I can leave the house and go in any direction for a fantastic ride. I guess my favorite bike is the Lightspeed Ultimate. It reminds me of that car commercial (Cadillac?) When you turn on the car, does it return the favor? That’s the feeling I get from that bike.
What is it about cycling that you love the most?
Cycling certainly isn’t an inexpensive sport. Even when you get past the initial investment you still have maintenance and replacement of components as they wear out. You have to absolutely stay on top of it or it can lead to additional cost. And then you have the clothing and nutritional food and drinks. Running was a whole lot simpler in terms of equipment and cost-wise, but what we have in common is the ability to get ready and out the door you go. I’m basically at 217 & Walker in Beaverton, so I have the west side, Skyline, or go over the hill into Portland to explore around.
Give an example of how cycling has changed some aspect of your life.
Cycling hasn’t changed my life per se' – but maybe an extension of what has been for a very long time a lifestyle of activity. I’ve always maintained involvement in some sport and if I can’t do something, then I’ll find something else to do. It’s a lifestyle of health and fitness, not only for your own health and sanity, but also for my grandkids so that Grandpa can play and be active with them. Sine I live with them, this is very important. Every night it’s “Let’s play with Grandpa!”
What is your favorite item of cycling clothing or equipment?
My favorite item of clothing would have to be my new Specialized S-works Limited Edition white with orange trim, which I get a lot of teasing about. They stand out quite loud, which I just love.